If you notice water or water stains on the roof, it could be the telltale signs of a leak. Roofs leak for a variety of reasons, so it is important to have it inspected quickly to diagnose the issue. From there, it is critical that you have the leak fixed to limit any further damage to the roof or to the rest of the home. Before you try fixing it, here is what you need to know:

The Causes of a Leaky Roof

Roofs can leak after a long winter in which rain or snow penetrated through the shingles or roof deck. In many cases, water will back into the shingles because gutters were clogged by debris or covered with ice during the winter months. Roofs may also leak because there is a lack of air circulation, which allows humid air to be present near the roof and in the attic.

How to Spot a Leaking Roof

If you see water actually dripping from the roof or from your ceiling, it is likely that there is a leak that needs to be fixed. However, the source of the water and the source of the leak are not necessarily the same thing. Therefore, you may need to take some time tracing the water back to where the roof is actually failing.

Call a Professional for Repairs Immediately

As soon as you see signs of a roof leak, it is a good idea to call a roofing professional to formally diagnose the problem. From there, he or she may be able to make suggestions as to how you can remedy the situation. Even if you think that you have the experience to make the repairs on your own, it may be best to let a professional, such as one from Stevens Roofing Corporation, do any necessary roof work instead.

Repairing

If water or other damage is prevalent on the roof, it may be a good idea to replace it instead of repairing the damage. A new roof may last for up to 50 years, which could make maintaining your home much easier. You may also be able to get a warranty on both materials and labor, which means that you won’t have to pay for repairs in the future.

A leaky roof is something that you need to take care of immediately. Otherwise, you risk damage to ceilings, walls and even the foundation of the home. While roof work may be costly, it is almost always less expensive than repairing water damage throughout the entire home.