How to Prevent Roof Leaks in Ebensburg, PA

Few things cause more panic than the dreaded drip-drip-drip of a roof leak during a storm. And once water finds its way in, it can cause some significant problems pretty quickly. 

The good news? Most leaks are preventable with some routine care. If you are a homeowner in Ebensburg, PA, here’s what you need to know to avoid unexpected roof trouble:

Keep Your Gutters Clean

Clogged gutters are one of the most common causes of roof leaks in Ebensburg. When water can’t properly drain off your roof, it can back up under the shingles or pool around the flashing and cause some substantial damage. 

For this reason, we recommend cleaning your gutters at least twice a year if you want to avoid dealing with leaks and other roof problems.

Address Ice Dams Quickly

Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the edge of your roof. They prevent water from draining in much the same way as a clogged gutter does - so it is a good idea to address them quickly when you see them begin to form.

If you want to provide your roof with some extra protection against ice dams, you can also think about upgrading your attic insulation and ventilation system.

Trim Overhanging Trees

Tree limbs that hang too close to your roof can drop leaves and debris that clog gutters. Worse, they can scratch or puncture your shingles during windstorms. In Pennsylvania’s snowy winters, heavy branches can even snap and fall, and create a large hole in your roof. 

If you want to avoid these issues, consider hiring an experienced professional to trim back your trees every two or three years. 

Make Sure Your Skylights Are Properly Sealed

If your home has skylights, you have already got one extra place where leaks can sneak in. The seals around skylights do not last forever. Weather, UV rays, and temperature swings can begin to wear them down over time. Once that happens, water will find its way inside and cause some real damage. 

With this in mind, our Ebensburg roofing team recommends giving your skylights a yearly check and resealing them as needed to help keep everything tight, dry, and protected.

What to Do If You Notice a Roof Leak

No matter how hard you work to protect your Ebensburg, PA, home, roof leaks can still happen.

If you spot a water stain on your ceiling, hear dripping during a storm, or notice peeling paint or damp insulation, do not wait to take action. The longer it takes you to react, the more extensive (and expensive) the damage can become.

Start by protecting what you can. Move your furniture out of the way, put a bucket or tray under the drip, and try to minimize any further damage.

Next, get in touch with our Ebensburg, PA, roofing team. We will come out to your home, inspect the area, and assess the full extent of the damage. Once we know what we’re dealing with, we’ll walk you through your options and help you find the right solution for your budget.