Disaster Preparedness: Best Practices for Homeowners

If you think your home might have a leak in the roof, you're right to be concerned. A leak, if left unrepaired, can lead to many problems, from mold to water damage. Detecting the issue early—and figuring out what's causing it—can help limit the damage.So, here's how to tell whether you have a roof leak, the common causes, and what to do next.How to Detect a Roof LeakHere are a few signs you might have a leaking roof.StainingWater stains, which look like brownish or yellowish spots, on your walls, floors, or ceilings are signs you have a leak. A plumbing leak can also cause these stains, but finding them in the attic or near other roofing structures means water is likely coming from the roof.MoldMold grows in humid environments, and roof leaks can create the perfect conditions for this growth. If you see mold around the attic and insulation, you may have a leak or your attic may not have proper ventilation. Either way, it's an issue you'll want to address.SaggingSagging ceilings can indicate leaks and issues with your roof's structural integrity. If water has accumulated in the roof decking, the wooden materials can rot and become damaged, weakening them. As water collects, it can also cause these materials to grow heavier, leading to sagging ceilings. This is a safety hazard you'll want to fix as soon as possible.Common Causes of Roof LeaksYour roofing system might develop a leak for several reasons.Severe WeatherWeather-related damage is one of the major sources of roof leaks. Exposure to moisture from rainstorms can cause materials like shingles or flashing to deteriorate and eventually allow water to seep into the structure below. Sharp winds can lift or warp shingles, letting water enter the damaged area. Hail can crack shingles and flashing. Even temperature fluctuations can cause materials to become brittle and crack as they expand and contract with these changes.Faulty Roof WorkImproperly installing roofing materials can also lead to roof leaks. When shingles aren't aligned or securely attached to the roof, it creates small openings where water can pool. This can occur when nails aren't driven in all the way or not enough nails are used. That's why certain shingles like GAF Timberline HDZ® use patented LayerLock® Technology that helps your roofer achieve a 99.9% nailing accuracy. Since flashing protects the vulnerable parts of the roof, improper flashing installation can also cause problems.Additionally, many homeowners try to save money by making repairs themselves or hiring low-quality contractors who don't do the job correctly or use cheap materials. This can lead to further and more expensive repairs down the road.Simple Wear and TearWear and tear over time can also cause roof leaks. Roofing materials can deteriorate over the years due to harsh weather, ultraviolet rays, and roof movements.Animals and Tree BranchesLess common causes, which still pop up now and then, include damage from animals and tree branches. The heavy impact from tree branches can crack shingles, leaving room for openings. Small critters like rats and squirrels can chew through roofing material or burrow into it, creating openings for water to enter.Call A Professional to Repair LeaksIt isn't always easy to identify the main source of a leak yourself. So, as soon as you notice any signs of a leak, call a trusted roofing contractor. They can find the leak's source, install quality materials to fix it before further damage occurs, and prevent it from happening again. A contractor can also help determine whether you need a new roof entirely.How to Prevent Roof Leaks in the FutureWith regular maintenance, you can catch leaks before they occur and extend your roof's life.Schedule A Professional InspectionIt's recommended to get your roof professionally inspected at least twice a year. When a leak is in the first stages, you might not notice signs immediately. A contractor can detect these issues before they happen and repair any damaged areas, such as shingles or flashing. These proactive steps are often less expensive than, for example, replacing damaged insulation from water damage or replacing the roof decking due to rot.Inspect Your Attic and RoofIn addition to professional inspections, monitor your attic and roof to determine whether you need a roof repair. From your attic, look for any sunlight that might be entering. If light can get into your attic, that means water can too. If you have a leak, you might see small dark spots or smell mildew or mold.While you should avoid climbing on your roof (leave this to the professionals who have the proper safety equipment and training), you can inspect your roof from the ground. Look for missing or damaged shingles, holes, and damage to the gutters and flashing.Clean Your GuttersMake gutter cleaning part of your yearly maintenance, or hire someone to do it. When your gutters become clogged with debris, water has nowhere to go and will remain on the roof or make its way inside. Installing gutter guards can help reduce the need for gutter cleanup.Trim Tree BranchesTrimming the tree branches near your roof can further prevent leaves from clogging the gutters. This step can also prevent branches from scratching your shingles on windy days or falling on your roof, leading to cracks.Catch Leaks Early to Minimize DamageYour roof is one of your home's most important structures. So, as soon as you notice signs of a leak, contact a roofing contractor, and prevent future leaks with regular roof maintenance and inspections. By taking these steps, you can ensure your roof protects what matters most for years to come.Ready to hire a contractor to fix a leak or inspect your roof? Find a GAF-Certified Contractor* near you.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.

While it can be fun to put up holiday lights, it's traditionally had its share of downsides. In addition to requiring a ladder, adding seasonal cheer to a home's exterior previously involved driving screws, nails, or staples into the roof or siding. The small holes these fasteners create can allow moisture to penetrate the roofing system, potentially leading to leaks, mold, and mildew.These days, you can choose many options to spread holiday cheer without damaging your home or taking on unnecessary risks. Here are the most effective ways to decorate for the season.Consider Decor That Doesn't Involve the RoofThe safest way to bedeck your home for the holidays is to decorate another part of the house or your yard, away from the roof. Here are a few ideas.ProjectorsLight projectors shower your home with a moving light display, featuring anything from snowflakes to traditional holiday characters. With many options, you're sure to find one that suits your house and neighborhood. And since the projector units sit close to the ground, you don't risk damage to your home and don't need a ladder to install them.InflatablesInflatables are staked into the ground and can help create a variety of holiday themes, from the classic nativity scene to an eye-catching menorah. They're easy to install and won't damage your home. However, inflatables are susceptible to weather events—during high winds or heavy snowfall, you may want to unplug or turn off the fan to prevent them from taking flight or creating a risk of electric shock.Tree LightsYou can hang lights from trees, landscaping, or other structures in your yard. Stringing lights around bushes, up light poles or tree trunks, and under a carport are all good alternatives to hanging them on the roof.How to String Holiday Lights on Your HouseIf you really want to put up holiday lights on your house, you can do so safely without damaging your roof or siding.Seek HelpOnly use a ladder with a partner nearby to help maintain stability and provide assistance. If you don't feel comfortable climbing a ladder or want additional help, contact a roofing contractor.Use Plastic ClipsYou can mount holiday lights using plastic clips that attach to gutters or shingles. The most common ones clip to the gutter's edge and hold either individual lights or the wire between them. You can also use siding clips to string lights vertically.Alternatively, you can install roof peak clips, which grip the shingle's edges at the top of the roof. They require access to the roof ridge, so professionals often use them.To remove the lights at the end of the season, take down the clips individually. Don't pull on the string of lights, as doing so could damage your gutters or the light string.Try Magnetic ClipsYou can use magnetic clips to attach individual bulbs or sockets to metal roofs or flashing. You can easily take them down by pulling on the string of lights (in this case, it's OK).While you're working around your roof, take a few minutes to inspect it for potential damage or quality issues. Contact a contractor if you have any concerns.Holiday Lighting OptionsSelect lights that are properly rated for outdoor use. LEDs are often recommended due to their energy efficiency, and they don't heat up like incandescent bulbs. You can also plug in multiple strings to the same outlet without fear of overloading the circuit, making LED lights more versatile.When it comes to types of holiday lighting, you have a few options.Large BulbsIt doesn't get much more traditional than large bulbs. You can use clips to ensure they're all pointing the same way, or string the cord through them for a more carefree look.Mini LightsMini lights don't put out as much light as large bulbs, so they may not be the best option for the roof. However, they're great for windows, trees, or indoor displays.Icicle LightsIcicle lights have strings of small bulbs that hang down from the gutter or roof to look like icicles. Use clips to attach the main string to the gutter line.Raindrop LightsRaindrop lights are animated to look like raindrops. You can hang them in a cluster in a small area or spots where traditional string lights don't work.Decorative Bulb CoversDecorative bulb covers give your home a unique look. You can get them shaped like snowmen, stars, ornaments, or other holiday motifs.Smart LightsSmart lights are the newest trend in holiday lighting. An app lets you control the lighting colors, patterns, intensity, and blinking speed so you can create your own unique light show. When paired with music, your home will become a neighborhood attraction.Remember to Prioritize SafetySafety should always be your first priority when you put up holiday lights. If you need a ladder to achieve your desired design, don't climb one without a helper nearby, and ensure you have the right ladder for the job. Also, attaching lights to your house with temporary clips instead of permanent fasteners can help keep your roofing system healthy.If you notice any roof damage or concerns while planning your holiday decorations, don't hesitate to contact a roofing contractor that's certified by GAF. They have the expertise to assess and address any roofing issues, ensuring your home stays protected throughout the holiday season and beyond.Whether you hang lights or opt for other outdoor decor, you can spread holiday cheer this season safely and creatively.

As part of its effort to build resilient communities, GAF provides students across the country with opportunities to gain work experience and hands-on training. The GAF co-op program offers participants autonomy and leadership in project management, engineering design, budgeting, project installation, and more.Over the years, the GAF co-op recruiting program has helped students advance academically, grow professionally, and earn competitively while working full time with North America's largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer.How the GAF Co-Op Program WorksThe program gives students high-impact, hands-on experience in the manufacturing sector. They perform meaningful work alongside supportive GAF mentors and senior leadership while earning a competitive wage. Participants can also receive credits from their university, which they can apply to their coursework.Differences between a Co-op and an InternshipInternships and co-ops have a few notable differences. At GAF, the main difference is the length of time. Internships at GAF usually last 10 weeks, but the co-op program is six months. While internship programs often allow students to stay enrolled in school and complete coursework as they gain professional training, co-op participants must take a semester off to gain full-time work experience.Not all companies pay internship participants for their work. However, at GAF, both interns and co-op students are paid competitive hourly wages. GAF also offers financial relocation assistance for qualifying co-op program candidates.Finally, participants in the GAF programs are there to learn real skills that will help them advance their future careers. GAF interns and co-op students are given the same responsibilities, and chances to collaborate on major projects, as full-time employees.Recent GAF Co-Op Success StoriesMin U, a mechanical engineering student at the University of Maryland, says he "fell in love with manufacturing" thanks to his placement on an engineering project. The experience gave him a firsthand account of the role engineering plays in manufacturing safety, profit, and operations. This ultimately led him to shift his career goals from construction management to manufacturing engineering.When Dante Stellar, an industrial engineering student at Virginia Tech, met GAF representatives at a career fair, he says he didn't expect to become a self-proclaimed "nerd for shingles" and develop a passion for manufacturing. However, that's exactly what happened. And that newfound passion paid off when Dante won Student of the Year from Virginia Tech's Cooperative Education and Internship Program. Dante notes he's now eager to return to GAF and aspires to become a manufacturing leader in the world of shingles.Michael Hesseltine, an electrical engineering student at Texas A&M University, chanced upon a GAF co-op recruiting listing online. After a series of interviews, he landed a project engineering co-op in Ennis, Texas. Working with the Ennis team on major projects solidified his manufacturing engineer career goals.Co-Op Students Complete Meaningful WorkStudents in the GAF co-op program are involved in meaningful projects and get to see their work's impact on day-to-day operations.During his time in Ennis, Michael designed a baler that compacts fiberglass scrap, reducing site disposal trips and costs. He also oversaw renovations of the site's maintenance mechanical break room from start to finish. He notes that his favorite contribution was helping design the electrical system for a dewatering press.In Baltimore, Min's core project was ensuring site compliance with state regulations for discharging stormwater runoff. Min managed all the project contractors and budget with his manager's and mentor's support. Throughout his time there, Min was exposed to Lean methodologies, 5S, risk mitigation, insurance compliance, cost control, and procedure standardization. He gained an overall understanding of manufacturing equipment and business.At the Tampa plant, Dante worked on a rock pad storage expansion project and installed a starwheel machine guarding the manufacturing line, among other important projects. According to Dante, the defining moment of his co-op experience was his granule silo refurbishment project, which involved replacing eight silos, including floor plates and support beams.Dante explains the trust and opportunities his mentors provided were key to his success. "At GAF, I was given the chance to interact with contractors, and immerse myself in the plant, which accelerated my learning," he says.Co-Op Students Build Professional RelationshipsThrough "lunch and learn" sessions, leadership speaker series, meetings with senior leadership, and mentorship, co-op students build long-term professional relationships.Dante was given the chance to showcase the coordination and safety efforts involved in his granule silo project to the GAF executive leadership team in Parsippany, New Jersey.For Min, getting the right feedback to grow meant having the right relationships. He notes the mentorship from his manager Alex Smith and engineering manager Mike Kloda was key to his progression. As advice to future co-op participants, he explains that "everyone is here to help... but it's up to you to drive that forward."Meanwhile, the autonomy and leadership opportunities program leaders gave Michael allowed him to grow technically and professionally. "I was often the go-to person for projects, managing contractors and ensuring everything was on track," he says.Joining an Industry Filled with OpportunityThe GAF co-op program helped Min, Michael, and Dante start and solidify their careers in manufacturing engineering. Following their experience, each student was excited and motivated by the autonomy, responsibility, and growth opportunities they were given. In fact, Min has since accepted a full-time role as a project engineer at the GAF plant in Baltimore. His expected start date is July 7, 2025.GAF is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the organization. It believes a talented and diverse organization can drive innovation, growth, and transformation more effectively. To further bolster inclusivity, GAF offers academic and merit scholarships, partners with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund to recruit from the nation's most diverse talent at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Predominantly Black Institutions, and reaches out to candidates at career fairs nationwide.Bright and motivated minds who want to explore manufacturing have plenty of opportunities. From shingles to solar to environmental impact, GAF offers many exciting career paths.Are you ready to do work that matters and be empowered to explore a leadership role? Discover the co-ops, internships, and job opportunities available at GAF.