Routine inspection of your roof can give you advanced notice of potential issues which could result in costly damages to your home. Some roof leaks are large and easy to notice, but others are small but can slowly wreak havoc in your home’s foundation, walls, and exterior siding. Here are the telltale signs your roof could be leaking.
1. Water Stains
A water stain may appear like a large puddle on your ceiling, mostly ringed with brown coloration. However, some stains are difficult to spot as they spring up in dark corners. If you notice any signs of stain in your ceiling or walls, be sure to look around for moisture, mold, or other signs of leaks.
2. Water Dripping through the Roof
Drips of water or moisture accumulation along walls are the most obvious signs of a leaking roof. Even if the drips seem to go away after some time, be sure to have a professional roofer inspect it to determine the source. If you notice any water dripping from your roof, you should have it inspected and remedied immediately.
3. Exposed Flashing or Underlayment
Take a close look under your roofline for signs of exposed flashing or underlayment. If there are water spots under the roofline, there could be leaks in areas where the roof meets the wall. Any water spots in these areas are often a sign of failing flashing. Mossy walls could also be a sign your downspouts are not functioning properly.
4. Gutters Pulling Away from the House
While gutters and downspouts aren’t made from roofing materials, they form an important component of a roofing system. They remove water off your roof and away from the foundation. Leaking gutters or broken downspouts can cause erosion of your home’s exterior wall and the foundation. Ensure any missing or damaged gutters are repaired or replaced immediately to prevent costly water damage to your home.
5. Missing Shingles
Missing shingles or issues with the seams which secure your shingles to other roofing structures, such as chimneys and skylights, could point to trouble with your roofing material. A roof with several patches will also be prone to leaking. Even if you don’t notice major leaks from the inside of your home, problems with shingles could cause moisture to slowly infiltrate the attic and crawl spaces.
6. Mold Growth on the Ceiling or Walls
Mold thrives in moist environments. If water is leaking into your home’s fabric, it can trigger mold growth. Typically, mold breaks down building materials and can eventually weaken your home. It can also cause a myriad of health issues, especially for people who suffer from asthma or allergies. If you notice a musty or mildewy smell which intensifies during damp weather, mold could be wreaking havoc in your home.A roof leak is an emergency problem and should be addressed as soon as possible. Fortunately, a simple repair can secure your home from major, costly damage. Take action immediately you notice signs of roof leaks. Contact Straight Line Construction in Sacramento, CA, whenever you have any issues with your roof.
