Tile roofs are quite popular because of their attractiveness, energy efficiency, and longevity. With the proper upkeep and attention, they can endure for decades. Tile roofs can still leak, harming your house and raising energy costs. Here are nine of the typical reasons tile roofs leak.
1. Age
Although tile roofs can last up to 50 years or more, the underlayment that shields the roof deck from moisture and water damage can deteriorate with time. It gets worn out, brittle, and broken with age.
Due to these breaks, leaks can occur from water seeping through the roof deck. Heat, precipitation, and UV radiation can also harm the underlayment. Therefore, replacing the underlayment every 20 to 30 years is advisable, depending on the material’s quality and condition.
2. Broken or Missing Roof Tiles or Slates
Broken or missing roof tiles or slates are among the most evident sources of tile roof leaks. Weather, aging, and impact can cause tiles to chip, crack, or come off. Water can seep through broken or missing tiles, exposing the underlayment and roof deck underneath and potentially resulting in leaks. To avoid this, you should have a professional thoroughly inspect and repair your tile roof.
3. Damaged or Poorly Installed Flashing
Flashing is the metal used to seal the joints and spaces between the roof and other structures like chimneys, skylights, vents, and valleys. Flashing keeps water out of these weak spots where leaks could occur.
Nevertheless, flashing may be harmed by corrosion or installed incorrectly owing to poor craftsmanship. Water leaks can occur from damaged or improperly placed flashing that allows water to seep through the roof.
4. Clogged Gutters
Gutters collect rainwater from the roof and direct it to the ground. This prevents water from building up and leaking through the roof. Dirt, leaves, and other materials can plug gutters, preventing water movement and causing an overflow.
This water overflow can damage the fascia, soffit, siding, and roof edge, causing leaks. Ensure you routinely clean and clear your gutters of any debris to avoid clogging. You can also install gutter guards or screens.
5. Broken Chimney
Chimneys expel fireplace, stove, and furnace gases and smoke. They are susceptible to cracking due to chemical exposure, high temperatures, and moisture.
Leaks may result from water seeping into the roof through cracked chimneys. Be sure to seal any gaps or cracks surrounding your chimney so that this doesn’t happen.
6. Punctures or Pooling Water
Nails, screws, and other sharp things can cause punctures in the roof. They may provide an opening for water to seep into the roof and cause leaks.
Pooling water builds up on a roof due to sagging, low slope, or inadequate drainage. This water may weigh down the roof, creating leaks and possibly causing it to collapse or break. Pooling water can be avoided by ensuring your roof has adequate slope and drainage.
7. Poorly Sealed Roof Valleys
Roof valleys are vulnerable to leaks because they gather a lot of water and debris. Water can flow through poorly sealed roof valleys’ seams, causing leaks. The remedy is to ensure the valleys in your roof are adequately sealed with tiles, underlayment, and flashing.
8. Damaged Roof Vents
Roof vents are the holes that let air flow through the attic to keep heat and moisture from building up. They are covered with caps or covers to keep water and debris out.
However, animals, wind, and hail can harm roof vents, leading to caps or covers that shatter, crack, or fall off. Damaged roof vents can allow water to penetrate the roof, causing water leaks.
9. Poorly Installed Skylights or Roof Windows
Your house can get natural light through roof windows or skylights. They are sealed with flashing, caulking, and glazing to stop air and water leaks. However, skylights or roof windows might be installed incorrectly due to incorrect sizing, alignment, or attaching. Water leaks can occur from improperly installed skylights or roof windows because of the gaps in the installation.
Contact Us
If you are looking for a reliable and reputable roofing company, contact Clark's Gables Roofing today and let us take care of your tile roof services. We have the skills, knowledge, and equipment to handle any tile roof project, big or small, in Roseville, CA, and the surrounding areas. Contact us for roof repair today!
