Are Roof Leaks Common On A New Roof?

Whether your home is a brand-new build or you live in an older house, a roof installation is a major expense. You’ve paid out several thousand dollars and you feel confident that your new roof will not require maintenance anytime soon. In most cases, a properly installed roof should last many years, but even a new roof can develop problems that may require professional roof repair services if something was not installed correctly.

Assess the Extent of the Roof Leak

Depending on the amount of water coming through your ceiling, your first instinct will probably be to panic. This is understandable, as water damage can affect floors, furniture, and appliances very quickly. The next step is to assess the situation. Have there been severe weather conditions such as heavy rain or a hurricane? Can you tell when the leak started? Has the leak stopped, or is water still entering the home? Answering these questions can help a roofing contractor determine the cause of the problem.

Don’t Get on the Roof Yourself

You should never climb onto the roof yourself to try to find the source of a leak. Wet tiles, shingles, or underlayment can be very slippery, and walking on a roof without proper training can cause further damage. In many cases, homeowners accidentally break tiles or loosen materials, which can make the leak worse and may even lead to needing a full roof replacement sooner than expected.

Instead, Call a Professional Roofer

A professional roofer can safely inspect the roof and determine whether the leak is caused by installation issues, storm damage, or normal wear. A reputable contractor will also stand behind their work and provide a workmanship guarantee when a new roof is installed.

Potential Causes of a New Roof Leak

Flashing Problems

Flashing consists of metal strips installed around roof joints, valleys, vents, and chimneys. If flashing is not sealed correctly, water can enter the roof system and cause leaks even on a new roof.

Cracked Shingles or Tiles

Roofing materials can crack if they are handled incorrectly during installation or if they are walked on too often. Even one broken tile can allow water to enter the roof.

Incorrect Installation of Seams and Underlayment

Roofing membranes and underlayment must be installed with proper overlap and sealing. If seams are not secured correctly, water can pass through small openings and eventually show up inside the home.

Areas Around HVAC Units

Leaks sometimes occur near HVAC equipment because the roof must be cut and sealed around the unit. If this area is not properly finished, water can enter during heavy rain.

Who Pays for a New Roof Leak?

A roof leak is not always covered by a standard home warranty, so it is important to review your insurance policy. However, if a leak occurs shortly after installation, the roofing contractor may be responsible if the problem is related to workmanship. Many roofing companies provide guarantees that cover repairs for a certain period after installation.

Preventative Measures

Even newer roofs should be maintained to avoid future leaks. Keeping gutters clean helps water drain properly and prevents moisture from building up on the roof. If your gutters are damaged or outdated, professional seamless gutter installation can improve drainage and help protect the roof.

It is also important to keep the roof clean and free of algae, mold, and debris. Regular maintenance and treatments such as Roof-A-Cide roof treatment can help extend the life of your roof and prevent damage caused by moisture buildup.

Always make sure that only a qualified roofing contractor performs any work on your roof. Professionals have the proper equipment and experience to work safely and prevent unnecessary damage.

New Roof Installation in Coral Springs and Jupiter

If you’re in the market for a new roof, ABC Roofing Corp is the team you can trust. With over 30 years of experience working on roofs in South Florida, we provide expert installation, repairs, and maintenance. Call us today at 954-344-4622.