The answer to 'what causes roof leaks' is that there are several common causes, including damaged or missing shingles, cracked flashing, clogged gutters, and poor attic ventilation. These issues can lead to water intrusion, which can cause leaks, rot, and other damage to your roof and home.
Damaged or missing shingles are one of the most frequent culprits. Over time, shingles can become cracked, curled, or completely blow off in high winds. This leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks. Cracked flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is another common problem, as these sealants can deteriorate and fail. Clogged gutters can also contribute to leaks by allowing water to back up and seep under the roof's edge. Finally, poor attic ventilation can cause moisture buildup that leads to rot and leaks.