When you notice a roof leak, it’s essential to find out why and have it fixed as soon as possible. When this happens near your gutters, you might wonder if they’re to blame for your leak. Can gutters cause roof leaks? The following problems with your gutters can lead to roof leaks.
1. Clogs
Clogged gutters can easily cause a leak to occur. Branches and other debris can create blockages in your gutters, preventing water from getting through them and away from your home. Water can end up leaking into your home when it’s unable to flow through your gutters, causing extensive damage.
2. Cracks and Holes
Wear and tear, adverse weather, wildlife and pest damage, and other problems can cause holes and cracks to form in your gutters. These openings make it easier for water to leak through your roof and damage the interior of your home. Even smaller holes and cracks can cause serious roof leaks over time.
3. Improperly Sealed or Separated Joints
Your gutters have joints which should be sealed for water to flow through. When your gutter joints become separated or if they’re not sealed correctly, water can leak through instead. Water can get into your roof and home interior until your gutters are appropriately sealed.
4. Improper Slope
Having gutters with the wrong slope or pitch can lead to leaks. If gutters have too much slope, water will rush over the sides, ending up at your foundation instead of away from your home. On the other hand, not enough slope causes water to pool in the gutters and not drain out of the downspouts properly. Professional roofers can correct this problem so your gutters have the proper slope.
5. Loose Fasteners
Your gutters need to be secured to your house, but the fasteners on them can become loose. When this happens, your gutters can move out of place, making it harder for water to pass through them.
6. Ice Dams
Ice dams happen when snow on your roof melts and freezes again near your gutters and eaves. These ice dams can cause water to seep under your roof eaves, leading to interior water damage. Adding insulation and ventilation can help prevent this from occurring and from needing foundation repairs or gutter replacements in the future..
If you have a roof leak near your gutters for any reason, contact Exteriors Plus right away. Our professional roofers offer reliable roofing replacements & repairs in the Akron, Canton and Cleveland areas.
