Preping for the rains

As the rainy season approaches, it is time to be certain that your home is properly protected from not just flooding but leaking roofs and windows. Needless to say, failure to ensure that all loose ends are tightened could lead to discomfort in your home during a rainy season that should naturally be a feel good season.

Common Causes of Roof Leak
. Expired material- once shingles have expired it is bound to leak during heavy rain.
. Age – Over time, expansion and contraction can loosen the seams in a metal roof.
. Damaged or poorly installed flashing – Roof flashing is a thin material, usually galvanised steel that professional roofers use to direct water away from critical areas of the roof, wherever the roof plane meets a vertical surface like a wall or a dormer. Flashing is installed to surround roof features, such as vents, chimneys and skylights.
. Broken or missing roof tiles or slates.
. Metal corrosion – Cracks in metal and corrosion around fasteners can create enough space for water to leak.
. Damaged roofing membranes or underlay.
. Wrong materials for roof pitch.
. Poorly placed fixings.
. Condensation of loft space.
. Poorly installed skylights or roof windows.
. Cracked Chimney.
. Poor Maintenance. …
. Excess moisture in the Attic.

How to track a leaking roof
The easiest way to track down a leak in your roof is to go up there or get a roofing expert to check closely with a flashlight. There will be water stains, black marks or mold.
Causes of Leaking Windows
. Poor installation.
. Unleveled windows.
. Poor sealing.
. Missing or broken caulking
. Bad glass seal.
. Missing overhangs.
. Leaking walls.
. Poor quality materials.

How to stop leaking Window
. Remove damaged exterior caulking. Clean the window frame and re-caulk.
. Check the gasket between the window frame and the glass. Re-seal the glass to the gasket with a clear silicone caulk. Make sure the sill at the bottom of the window frame is pitched downward to drain water toward the exterior.