Ah Queensland, nothing like those 5pm thunderstorms to highlight any issues with your property’s roof. The problem with a leaking roof is that the source isn’t always obvious. Water travels. No matter where the inundation is happening, the signs of a leaky roof could be on the other side of your property. It’s not always simple to diagnose what’s causing a leaking roof. You’ll likely need a qualified plumber to come do a little detective work!
What are the usual suspects in a leaking roof?
Blocked or poorly maintained gutters
Gutters full of leaf matter and debris can not only block your downpipes, it can force the water to overflow back into the roof through the eaves. This type of water damage can be avoided through regular maintenance, and ensuring adequate storm water drainage is in place to remove rainwater away from the roof.
Blocked down pipes or stormwater pipes
Roof water and stormwater drainage problems are among the most likely culprits in a leaking roof. If the gutters are clear, but the down pipes or storm water pipes are blocked, the water will backflow through the gutters and overflow into the roof space. Always ensure down pipes and storm water pipes are free flowing. You can use a garden hose to test them to see if water comes back up through to the gutters.
Broken or missing tiles
Often hail or a falling tree branch can break roof tiles. Gail force winds can whip old tiles, which can allow water through the roof. If you have a tiled roof and suspect a leak, you will need a specialised roof plumber who has experience with tiled roofs.
Rusted ridge capping
Ridge capping is where the roof edges meet at an angle. If the ridge capping is rusted out, it will let water into your roof cavity. There is no quick fix for this as it will need to be replaced.
Rusted or blocked gulley
Roof valleys are the ‘V’ shaped metal channels that running through the folds of the roof. Valleys will catch leaf debris and much like gutters, if this debris is not removed, rainwater will find its way into your ceiling.
Rusted roof
This is a given that a rusted roof will allow water through rusty holes. The only solution is to get the roof replaced.
Faulty flashings
Flashings will be used around the edges of the roof or around penetrations like vents and skylights. If the flashing hasn’t been well made or moulded around the penetration, water will find its way into your roof.
Incorrectly installed roof sheets or roof flashings
Incorrectly installed roof sheets and roof flashings can result in roof leaks. Although you may not be aware of a leak until a big storm, persistent rain or strong winds and rain from a certain direction allow water into the roof, causing water damage to the ceiling. In this case, replacement of the roof and flashings will be needed and silicone is only a temporary fix.
Buying in Queensland? Is a roof leak a deal breaker?
Roof repairs aren’t cheap. So if you’re buying a property in Queensland that shows signs of roof leaks, you’ll need to get a roof plumber out to take a thorough look before your contract goes unconditional. What could be as cheap and simple as replacing a cracked tile, could also be a major roof damage repair or replacement job.
