Our Des Moines Roofers Explain the Reasons for Common Roof Leaks and How To Fix Them

A roof leak can become a serious and expensive problem if not dealt with quickly. Below, we detail some of the most common reasons for roof leaks and how to fix them. When you need roofing services for your home, including leak repair, contact Ultimate Exteriors in Des Moines, IA.

Pipe Boot Failure

A boot is a kind of flashing that goes around the pipes that come out of your roof. It is meant to keep water out of the pipe and flowing into your home. Boot failures happen when the material cracks, oftentimes from UV exposure. That crack will cause a leak wherever the pipe is located, it could be a closet, master bedroom, or bathroom. Pipe boots generally last around 10 years. If yours is damaged, a rubber collar can be placed over the crack. These collars can last another 10 to 15 years.

Clogged Gutters

These leaks happen with roofs that have a valley. If the valley stops in the middle of a roof, there will usually be a gutter next to it to catch falling water. A leak can happen if there is no flashing applied to the fascia board, which is the board that surrounds the edge of the roof where the gutters are. Leaks in this area are not incredibly common unless there has been heavy rain. Fortunately, these leaks can be repaired by loosening the gutter and installing flashing to protect the fascia.

Poorly Driven Nails

When nails are not driven in completely or at an angle, they leave room for leaks. When it rains, water can enter the roof where nails are sticking up. To fix this type of issue, the shingle will need to be lifted and the nail will need to be removed and replaced properly.

Residential Roof Services in Des Moines

When you need quality roofing repairs for your home, be sure to contact a professional. At Ultimate Exteriors , we’ve been installing and repairing roofs in Des Moines, Iowa, and the surrounding areas since 2006. To learn more about roofing repair or installation, or to request an estimate in Des Moines, give us a call at (515) 519-9896 today.