Roof leaks are a common and frustrating problem for homeowners, but what causes these leaks? Do metal roofs leak more than shingles? If you’re wondering whether your roof is leaking because the material isn’t right, this blog is for you.
At Capital Roofing, we help homeowners learn more about their homes and the roofing industry so they can make more informed decisions. In this blog, we will compare how metal panels, asphalt shingles, and wood shingles stack up against each other. Get ready to learn about the real culprit behind roof leaks.
Which Material Is Prone To Leaks, Metal Or Shingles?
The answer may surprise you. It’s not the type of roofing material to blame because neither metal nor shingles are more prone to leaks than the other. The primary purpose of every roofing material is to provide protection from the elements, which includes metal roofs as well as wood and asphalt shingles. So, what causes roof leaks? How do you go about the repairs?
Let’s find the culprit behind your leaking roof and a solution to repair it.
What’s Causing Your Roof To Leak?
Roof leaks can be a major headache for homeowners, leading to water damage and even mold growth. But what is causing these leaks in the first place? The answer is not as simple as just blaming the type of roofing material you have installed. While the material you choose is important, it’s the quality of the products, installation, and maintenance which runs the show.
Let’s take a look at the common causes of roof leaks.
Improper Installation
One of the main causes behind a roof leak is improper installation. When a roof is installed poorly, it can create gaps and openings that allow water to get into your home. This is especially true for metal roofs, which require special expertise and attention to detail during the installation process.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial in preventing roof leaks. This includes checking for and repairing any damage, as well as cleaning your roof and gutters to prevent debris from clogging up the drainage system. Neglecting to perform regular maintenance on your roof can lead to leaks and other problems that can be much more expensive to repair later on.
Poor Design
Another factor that can contribute to roof leaks is poor design. This includes issues such as an insufficient slope on the roof, improper ventilation, and insufficient flashing around roofing gaps. When designing your roof, it’s essential to consider all of these factors to ensure it is protected from water damage.
Low-Quality Roofing Material
Cheap roofing materials may save you money upfront, but they can lead to costly repairs down the line. So, if you want to protect your home from water damage, it’s important to choose high-quality roofing materials. For example, if you choose inferior asphalt shingles or thin metal panels, they will break down quickly.
For homes in storm-prone areas, it is best to use impact-resistant roofing materials. Even if your roof only leaks sometimes, you must call a reliable roofing contractor to inspect your roof and fix the leaks using the best quality products.
But which roofing material has better weather resistance and a leakproof design? Is a metal roof better than shingles? If you are looking for a new leakproof roof, here’s what you need to know.
Metal Roofs Vs. Shingles: Which Roofing Material Can Prevent Leaks?
Almost every kind of roofing material has a different high and low-quality version, and the most protective ones are Class 4 impact resistant. This means the roofing material has passed the toughest test for impact damage. Be it shingles or metal, there are a wide variety of Class 4 roofing materials. Let’s learn about them in detail to help you choose the right one for your home.
Asphalt Shingles
Some popular brands of hail and impact-resistant shingles include GAF Timberline HDZ, Owens Corning TruDefinition Duration, and CertainTeed Landmark Pro. These are affordable, sturdy, and durable shingle lines, which are best for stormy states like Oklahoma and Ohio. Additionally, most of these shingles also have high wind resistance ratings of up to 110 miles per hour, for better protection against storm damage.
Metal Panels
If you have a high budget and are looking for a more maintenance-free option, you can also use 22 gauge metal panels with a standing seam profile. This type of metal roofing system is more durable than a cheap, low-quality metal roof with thin panels and a leak-prone design.
Apart from metal roofs and asphalt shingles, you also have the choice of picking beautiful wood shingles that are water-resistant and weathertight.
Water-Resistant Wood Shingles & Shakes
There are some wood shingles and shakes made of natural or composite wood that can resist algae, rot, and decay. They offer a unique and natural look that can enhance the appearance of your home while providing reliable protection against roof damage and leaks. Some manufacturers treat wood with waterproofing agents to achieve these qualities. These beautiful roofing materials are also resistant to fire and heavy impacts, which provides additional peace of mind for homeowners.
If you live in Claremore, Chelsea, Pryor, or surrounding towns in Oklahoma, we can find the roof leak in your home, and patch it using high-quality materials. If you are looking for new, sturdy, and durable roofing shingles, we can also help you pick the most suitable option.
Let’s Find The Right Solution To Fix Your Leaking Roof
At Capital Roofing, we are proud to be the best residential roofing contractors in Oklahoma. Our team is skilled and experienced at delivering the highest quality roof repairs and replacement services. Our work speaks for us, and hundreds of homeowners depend on our prompt and friendly professionals.
If you need a roof leak repair service or want our help choosing a sturdy roofing material for your home, we are here to help. Our team has been fortifying homes for years, and they know how to fix a roof leak no matter the case.
To schedule a free consultation or roof inspection, call us at (918) 260-4075. Our inspectors will also provide a free estimate of your roof leak repair costs so that you can plan your project with a budget in mind.
We hope we were able to answer your question, “Do metal roofs leak more than shingles?” and look forward to helping you.
