Water intrusion usually occurs at the roof and it can occur at points such as chimneys, roof penetrations and flashing’s. Water intrusion can also occur through the roofing materials themselves at junctures, laps, fasteners and areas that are left open or unprotected.
What is Water Intrusion?
Even if your house is built with proper structural integrity, your house can be damaged by the heavy winds caused during hurricanes. The rain that travels horizontally can damage your walls, ceilings and interiors. When the wind blows at a speed of 60 mph or above, the rain water is lashed against the walls and roof with great penetrating force. When this water gets builded up on the roof surfaces it gets driven into the cracks and openings.
The reason for this is, as the water spreads across the roof it gets pushed into the roof. When the pressure inside your house is lower, large quantities of water penetrates your roof through holes, gaps and cracks. When large quantities of water enter the roof and if it happens for a long time, you may not be able to control the seeping water. If you can minimize the water entering through your attic and roof ventilation systems, you can improve the chances for getting your roof dried. Otherwise it may lead to mold formation. Most of the houses have roof related problems and this can be fixed easily within a few hours.
Causes for Water Intrusion in Roofs
Improper Installation of Flashing: Improper installation of flashing at roofing vents can be the greatest contributor to water intrusion in roofs. Flashing is a simple caulk material, or it can also be composed or metal or other material. The installation of flashing at certain locations can be a complicated or challenging work.
Improper Installation of Roofing Material: Improper installation of roof tiles or improper installation of roof underlayment may lead to water intrusion in roofs.
How To Spot Water Intrusion In Roofs
Since water can travel some distance from the intrusion spot, it is sometimes difficult to diagnose the spot of water intrusion. So, you may need plumber’s help to spot the water intrusion. Skilled technicians scan and document an entire room for potential water intrusion using state of the art infrared imaging, probe method or forensic testing.
Infrared Thermography: Infrared Thermography is a non-invasive method that uses infrared cameras to see into the roofs for moisture detection.
Probe Method: A penetrating probe meter is used to test moisture within ceilings, walls and floors. Small, undetectable holes are drilled into the building material to insert the probe.
Once the source of leak is identified the expert team will clean-up and repair the damages, and they will take all measures to prevent water intrusion.
Damages Caused by Water Intrusion In Roofs
- Water intrusion in roofs will greatly reduce the life of your home if not tended to immediately.
- Water intrusion mainly occurs from the water that enters the interior of your house’s structure. This water intrusion is slow and unnoticeable, and rots your home from the inside out.
- Water intrusion is the main cause for mold growth in homes and the molds may destroy your house, and mold exposure also poses a health threat.Water intrusion in roofs is a sign of a deeper problem with the construction of your home. Any type of water intrusion should be inspected with the help of an expert, as there is no telling where the water intrusion originates. However, it is sure that there will be serious damage with water intrusion in roofs.