There’s nothing better than a worry-free roof, one that can be relied on to do its job of providing comfortable conditions for occupants living underneath it. The last thing homeowners need is to have concerns about a new roof or major roof repairs. However, one issue must be addressed, the possibility of pressurized line punctures and their potential for creating dangerous – and even emergency – situations.

What Are Pressurized Line Punctures?

Depending on the house, the attic space may have pressured lines running through it. They include air conditioning lines, natural gas lines and water lines. These lines should be installed correctly by HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) technicians or plumbers. Correctly means that the lines are set more than 2 inches from the underside of the roof, as per building codes. If less than 2 inches, they must be covered by a strike plate, a piece of metal that acts like a shield.

Unfortunately, the reality is that unprotected pressurized lines are set less than 2 inches from roof decks. When a new roof is installed or major repairs begin, there’s always a chance that nails can hit these improperly placed lines. Roofers use nails to fasten material like shingles and flashing. It’s completely normal for nails to protrude through the underside of the decking because building codes require them to be a certain length. This protrusion is usually 3/4 of an inch.

Once pressurized lines are hit, problems start. Homeowners will know something is wrong with the air conditioner, gas or water systems – the house won’t cool down, there’s a strange odor, or there’s noticeable water stains on ceilings and walls. At this point, you must take action for your home and your family’s safety as these breaches can lead to serious situations.

If Signs of Pressurized Line Problems, Take Action Immediately

If you had a new roof installed recently and wonder why things aren’t working like they should, reach out to your roofing company at once so that the appropriate professional is contacted. Since safety is a priority, review the list below for what you should do if pressurized lines in the attic are compromised.

  • Air conditioner lines. Call your roofing company right away. They should coordinate with licensed HVAC technicians to see why the air conditioning system isn’t cooling or stopped working. This is very important because a damaged pipe carrying Freon needs particular attention and requires more than just patching the hole and refilling with Freon.
  • Natural gas lines. Immediately exit the house to a safe distance if you smell natural gas (similar to rotten eggs) and call the gas company, fire department or 911. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous, and the gas needs to be shut off by the gas company or fire department. Once it’s safe, contact your roofing company. They should look at the issue with plumbers who are certified to work on gas lines.
  • Water lines. Turn off the main water line that leads to the home if you’re seeing signs of water damage such as stains on the ceiling and walls. Promptly call your roofing company. They should coordinate with plumbers to investigate the cause. Water leaks pose very serious problems that lead to mold, rotted framing, destroyed insulation and much more.

Your Professional Roofing Company is Here For You

Rest assured knowing that Ashco Exteriors puts your home and your family’s safety first. Before a new roof is installed or major repairs started, we have an inspection of the attic done by licensed HVAC technicians or certified plumbers. They’ll get in the attic and locate pressurized lines that are too close to the roof deck so that we can work around them. In the event that line issues arise after a new roof is in place or major repairs completed, we coordinate with HVAC or plumbing companies to have these issues investigated.

At Ashco Exteriors, we’re trained in all aspects of roof replacement and repair, ensuring everything is done correctly at each stage along the way. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent quality workmanship that also meets building code requirements and construction industry standards. Contact us today for a free 7-point roof inspection.