Your roof should last between 20 and 30 years – and that’s if you use even the most basic shingles. If you use a more durable material, such as slate, your roof could last longer than your house.

But regardless of the roofing materials sitting atop your home, at some point, you might encounter a leak. These are the four most common causes of leaky roofs in Michigan.

The 4 Most Common Causes of Leaky Roofs in Michigan

The four most common causes of leaky roofs in Michigan include:

  • Missing shingles
  • Cracked, broken or damaged shingles
  • Gaps in your roof’s flashing
  • Broken or worn flashing

Here’s a closer look at each.

#1. Missing Shingles

Your shingles should be secured to your roof and be able to withstand high winds, but mistakes can happen during construction – or the wind could be too forceful for your shingles to withstand it. When that happens and the wind rips off a shingle, there’s a new path for water to get inside your home.

#2. Cracked, Broken or Damaged Shingles

Branches that scrape against your roof, hail, heavy ice and several other things can crack, break and damage your shingles. Because your shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against water, it’s essential to repair them as soon as you discover an issue – otherwise, you risk water leaking into your home.

#3. Gaps in Your Roof’s Flashing

Flashing is what holds your roof together around things like skylights, chimneys and vents. Over time, the flashing can shrink – or the wood can swell around it and stretch it too thin. When that happens, you’re at risk for roof leaks.

#4. Broken or Worn Flashing

Flashing can fail over time. You can replace it with adhesives and sealants, or you can call a roofing company out to fix it – but it’s something that you definitely need to address as soon as possible.

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