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Visible Causes of Water Damage

By Kimberly Duncan / Published: November 1, 2005

Roof Leaks

Roofing materials wear out and expose the roof decking to moisture intrusion and damage, especially around roof penetrations like chimneys, plumbing vents, and exhaust fans. Worn out shingles tend to curl and crack, allowing moisture intrusion. Cracked chimney caps allow water into interior areas of the chimney.

Rainwater accumulates between the roof and a blocked gutter. Flat roof drains can clog and hold water on the roof, increasing the risks of a leak and a possible collapse of the entire roof under the weight of the water.

Attics

Poor attic insulation and ventilation allows heat to escape, turning rooftop snow into an ice dam. Ice dams often force moisture to back up under roof shingles where it can then drip into the attic, ceiling or walls.

Windows and Doors

Improperly installed windows and doors allow moisture to penetrate into the wall. Damaged seals, weather-stripping, and flashing around windows or doors can cause windblown moisture penetration.

Gutters & Drains

Clogged gutters can force rainwater to travel under shingles or to overflow and travel down interior walls. An insufficient number of drains can cause an overflow.

Gutters that don't empty far enough away from foundation walls can lead to damage and a wet basement. Frozen gutters can act exactly like ice dams, pushing moisture up under the shingles and into the house.

Rainwater

Rainwater collects along the foundation wall or beneath crawlspace during wet months unless directed away by proper drainage.

Landscape Grade

Improper landscape grading can result in drainage toward foundation walls, rather than away from them.

Recommended Reading
Invisible Causes of Water Damage

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