(316) 927-2233Few things are worse than waking up to a roof leak in your home. Unfortunately, it can happen to anyone, anywhere. While the cause of water infiltration may vary from age to superficial damage, once you’ve identified roof leaks, they should be assessed and repaired as soon as possible to avoid damage to the roof decking and the interior of the home.
Common Causes of Roof Leaks
While roof leaks in the home make themselves very apparent to everyone under the roof, what’s less apparent is their exact cause. It could be any number of things causing water to enter the home, that’s why it’s best to get professional roofing contractors in to assess the situation.
These are some of the potential causes of roof leaks:
Broken or Missing Shingles
Broken or missing shingles can be the result of storm damage or simply a consequence of an aging roof. It can cause exposure, making it easy for water to enter the roof. This is something that can be avoided with regular maintenance checks and repairs.
What Causes Shingles to Fail?
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- High winds (especially in Wichita’s storm season)
- Hail impact
- UV damage over time
- Poor-quality materials or improper installation
It only takes a few missing or damaged shingles to allow water beneath the surface, where it can seep into your roof deck and insulation.
Compromised Roof Vents
In order for roof vents to function optimally, they need to be adequately sealed. Over time they can suffer cracks and gaps in the housing or along the pipes, which is bound to cause roof leaks.
Common Roof Vent Problems
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- Broken or rusted vent housings
- Loose or exposed fasteners
- Poor initial installation
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Roof vents should keep your attic ventilated, not soaked. Compromised roof vents allow water in, compromising their ability to let air out.
Failing Flashing
Flashing is the thin metal that protects vulnerable areas on the roof. Flashing plays a vital role in sealing off moisture. They are specifically placed where roof transitions occur, and could otherwise be easy entry points for water. It is common for flashing to move out of place or suffer cracks over time, which can cause major roof leaks within the home.
Where Flashing Fails Most Often
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- Around chimneys and skylights
- Where roofing meets vertical walls (roof-to-wall transitions)
- Valleys where roof slopes meet
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These areas are especially vulnerable in older roofs or after a major storm.
Clogged Gutters
This one surprises a lot of homeowners. You think, “It’s just some leaves,” but clogged gutters can back water up under your shingles, leading to rot, mold, and—you guessed it—a roof leak.
Signs Your Gutters Are a Problem
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- Waterfalling, which comprises water spilling over the sides during rain
- Sagging or detaching gutters
- Ice dams forming in winter
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Wichita’s mix of fall leaves and winter freezes makes this a year-round concern.
Age and Wear Over Time
Even the best roof has a shelf life. Materials break down, adhesives lose their grip, and years of weather take their toll.
When the Age of Your Roof Could Be a Problem
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- Asphalt shingles: 15–25 years
- Tile roofs: 30-50 years
- Flat roofs: 15-30 years depending on maintenance and material
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If your roof is approaching the end of its life, the most cost-effective move might be a full replacement instead of constant patchwork.
How to Prevent Roof Leaks Before They Happen
Want to avoid dealing with leaks in the first place? Great idea. Here’s what we recommend:
- Schedule an annual roof inspection—especially after storm season
- Clean your gutters at least twice a year
- Don’t ignore minor issues like a lifted shingle or water stains on your ceiling
- Ensure that your attic is adequately ventilated
- Work with a trusted, local roofer who stands behind their work
A little preventative maintenance goes a long way, especially in the lower Midwest.
What can I do if my Roof Is Leaking?
If your roof is leaking, call an experienced roofing contractor immediately. They will perform an inspection of your roof system and identify what’s causing the leaks. If your leaks are caused by missing shingles, a dry-in might be necessary until the area can be repaired properly.
Water: A Home’s Worst Enemy
No homeowner wants water entering the home, especially via the roof. If water continues to enter your home, it may cause lasting damage that can result in significant expenses.
- Water causes mold issues and may result in a variety of different harmful growths.
- Water can warp and rot wood, which may cause significant structural problems that require extensive repair work.
- Water damage may be destructive to the rest of your home in terms of damage to furniture, appliances and electronics.
Get in Touch Today
We understand what it takes to prevent further damage to your home, and we’re always here to offer advice and suggestions on how to best approach roof leak repairs. Contact us to discuss a free, no-pressure roof inspection. Rhoden Roofing, LLC is Wichita’s most trusted roofer, and a GAF Master Elite contractor with years of experience in roof contracting.
