Common Issues with Roof Flashing and Siding
Water leaks are a common concern for many homeowners, often caused by issues with roof flashing, siding, or improper installation practices. One homeowner we assisted had a persistent leak in their garage ceiling. Our approach to resolving the problem uncovered a broader issue that highlights the importance of proper construction techniques.
The Problem: A Leaking Garage Ceiling
The homeowner noticed water seeping through their garage ceiling and contacted us for help. Using an infrared scan, we inspected the garage and the roof. The scan revealed that the roof itself was in good condition, eliminating it as the source of the problem. However, our deeper investigation uncovered that the builder had failed to install house wrap behind the siding—a critical step to prevent water intrusion.
The Root Cause: Missing House Wrap
House wrap acts as a protective barrier between the siding and the home’s structure. Without it, water can seep behind the siding and find its way into walls, ceilings, and other areas, causing damage over time. Unfortunately, missing or improperly installed house wrap is a fairly common issue, especially in homes built without strict attention to detail.
The Solution: Securing the Garage Against Leaks
To address the issue, we carefully removed the siding from the affected area. We installed house wrap, ensuring that all seams were taped securely to create a watertight seal. Once the house wrap was in place, we reinstalled the existing siding.
After completing the repairs, the garage ceiling stayed dry—even during heavy rains. The homeowner no longer needed to worry about water damage or the long-term effects of moisture, such as mold or structural weakening.
How This Relates to Common Siding and Flashing Problems
The homeowner’s experience highlights broader challenges that many houses face, especially regarding siding and flashing installations:
1. Improper or Missing Flashing
Flashing is a thin layer of material, typically metal, used to direct water away from vulnerable areas like chimneys, skylights, or where the roof meets walls. When flashing is missing or poorly installed, water can seep into areas it should not. Over time, this can lead to leaks in ceilings, walls, or even the foundation.
2. Gaps in Siding Installation
Siding must be properly installed to create a tight, weather-resistant barrier. Common problems include:
- Unsealed seams: Water can infiltrate through unsealed gaps between siding panels.
- Improper overlap: Siding panels must overlap correctly to direct water outward, away from the structure.
- Cracked or damaged panels: Damage to siding allows water to penetrate and reach the interior structure.
3. Lack of House Wrap
House wrap provides an essential second layer of defense against water intrusion. When omitted, any water that gets behind the siding can directly damage walls and ceilings. It also plays a crucial role in allowing trapped moisture to escape, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Preventing Water Leaks in Your Home
This project underscores the importance of proactive home maintenance and careful inspections. Homeowners can take these steps to prevent leaks:
- Inspect your flashing regularly: Check for missing or damaged flashing, especially around roof edges, chimneys, and windows.
- Examine siding for damage: Look for cracks, loose panels, or improperly sealed seams.
- Ensure house wrap is present: If you’re remodeling or repairing your home, confirm that contractors install house wrap properly.
By addressing these common issues, homeowners can avoid leaks, protect their homes from water damage, and ensure their property stays in top condition.
If you’re experiencing a similar problem or suspect water intrusion in your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to us so we can identify and fix the issue promptly. A quick response can save time, money, and the stress of dealing with larger problems down the road.
Jon transitioned into custom residential home construction with an opportunity to become a working partner with Mike Evangelist. Since roofing had been a large part of my past work experience, it was a natural fit. Finding and detecting hard-to-track roof leaks is our specialty.
- How We Solved a Garage Ceiling Leak - January 28, 2025
- Kick Out Flashing: A Simple Solution for a Water-Free Home - November 29, 2023
- The Importance of Proper Siding Installation: Keeping Your Home Water-Tight - November 15, 2023