When it comes to protecting your home from the elements, your roof plays a huge role. While most homeowners think about shingles and flashing, one smaller but equally important component is often overlooked, the roof sealant. This material is used to seal joints, seams, and around features like vents, skylights, and chimneys. Over time, however, even the best sealant can degrade. Marshalls Contracting would like to go over the common signs of cracked or worn sealant on your roof, why it matters, and what you can do to prevent small issues from becoming costly problems.
What is Roof Sealant & Why is it Important
Roof sealant is a weatherproofing material used to seal vulnerable areas of the roof. It’s commonly applied around:
• Chimneys
• Skylights
• Roof vents and pipes
• Flashing and valleys
• Seams in metal or flat roofing
Its main job is to prevent water from seeping into the under layers of your roof and create a flexible, durable barrier. When it begins to wear out or crack, it compromises your roof’s waterproofing ability.
Signs Your Roof Sealant is Cracked or Worn
Visible Cracking or Peeling: Over time, exposure to sun, rain, wind, and temperature changes causes sealant to dry out and crack. You may see it peeling, splitting, or flaking near roof penetrations or seams.
Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls: If sealant fails, water can leak into your attic and home interior. Yellow or brown stains on ceilings or walls are often the first sign of a hidden roof leak caused by deteriorated sealant.
Mold or Mildew Growth: Where moisture finds its way in, mold or mildew often follows. If you notice musty smells or dark spots around roof joints or in your attic, degraded sealant could be the culprit.
Soft or Damp Spots on the Roof: In some cases, water infiltration can cause the underlying roof decking to become spongy or soft. This often occurs near roof fixtures where old sealant has lost its effectiveness.
Gaps Around Vents or Flashing: If the sealant has pulled away or eroded, you may notice visible gaps or separation around flashing, skylights, or pipes. These gaps are open invitations for water intrusion.
Unusually High Humidity in the Attic: Worn sealant can allow moist air to enter the attic, increasing humidity levels. This can cause insulation to become damp, lower energy efficiency, and even lead to structural issues over time.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Worn Roof Sealant
While cracked or missing sealant might seem like a small problem, the consequences can be serious if left unaddressed:
• Leaks and water damage
• Rotting wood and compromised structural integrity
• Mold and mildew growth
• Higher energy bills from poor insulation performance
• Shortened roof lifespan
How Often Should Roof Sealant Be Checked
Sealant should be inspected at least once a year, especially in climates with extreme weather. It’s also smart to have it checked:
• After a major storm
• When installing or replacing any roof features
• As part of regular roof maintenance or inspection
Roof Installation, Replacement, Repair & More in Columbia, Jessup, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Clarksville, Fulton, Laurel MD and Howard, Carroll, Frederick, Baltimore, Anne Arundel and Montgomery Counties in Maryland
Your roof’s sealant might be out of sight, but it should never be out of mind. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can keep your roof watertight and your home safe. If you suspect your roof sealant may be past its prime, don’t wait. Contact Marshalls Contracting and schedule your roofing inspection and repairs today!
