The roof is the most critical structure in a home. Besides its aesthetic appeal, it has functional roles – like keeping the house and your family dry and safe from the weather. Because they are a critical part of the structure, most roofs have extended warranties to guarantee the best service over a long period.
But even with the best roof installation, you shouldn’t install and forget the roof. Regular roof inspections and shingle roof repairs are necessary to identify potential problems like roof leaks – which are the biggest concern for most homeowners.
You shouldn’t leave even the most minor leaks to chance. They can cause extensive damage to your house and your pocketbook without proper roof repair. If you currently have a leak and you’re wondering what damage a leaking roof can cause, how to find a leak, and how to get it fixed, you’re at the right place.
Damages Caused By a Leaking Roof
Leaks can have devastating damage, especially when left unattended for a long time. The damage’s extent depends on the leak’s size, how long it has been there, and the amount of precipitation.
If your area receives a lot of rain at one time, a leaking roof could wreak havoc on your home, health, and finances. Here are some of the damages associated with roof leaks:
Damaged ceilings and attics
When leaks are small, the roof decking and attic bear most of the brunt. It’s where the signs of a small leak begin because the water first penetrates the decking and then enters your attic. Over time, the ceiling of your attic develops dark stains and eventually starts falling apart.
The attic’s structure is also compromised because of the excessive moisture, and you might even notice wood rot if the leak continues for too long.
Insulation damage
Water leaks can damage the insulation you have inside your home. When the insulation material becomes wet, it clumps up and becomes ineffective. It can no longer keep your home warm or cool, depending on the season. The air conditioning has to pick up the slack; sometimes, it’s not enough if the insulation is too far gone.
Fire hazard
The moisture can also compromise the electrical and wiring systems in your home. When the insulative covering on the wires is exposed to water for a prolonged period, it becomes brittle and starts breaking away. When the wires are compromised, you’re exposed to electric shocks, short circuits, and fire hazards.
Sagging drywall
Drywall doesn’t get along well with water. When the material is exposed to water, it can sag, buckle and fall apart. When your roof is leaking, this is precisely what happens!
Compromised structure
A small leak can compromise even the strongest homes. Homes are susceptible to the rot that comes with water damage, so you must address leaks as soon as possible. A small leak can develop into a systemic foundation failure that can be unstoppable. The foundation is not the only structure around the house at risk because of a leak. Other susceptible structures include:
The siding
Rafters
Wall framing
Paint and plaster on walls
Fascia boards
Exterior trim
Furniture and personal belonging
Mold and mildew
Excessive humidity caused by the leak can lead to severe mildew and mold problem. The mold spores can pass through the HVAC systems and contaminate the air you breathe, causing
severe illnesses and triggering allergies.
Financial challenges
Roof leak economics can be scary. You’re not just looking at the roof repair cost but other implications like high energy bills, medical bills, and furniture replacement. All matters considered, the cost of simply repairing the roof leak could be the least of your worries.
What Should You Do To Prevent or Address a Roof Leak?
Although some roof leaks might creep up on you, you can drastically reduce the damages they cause by:
Roof cleaning
Roof cleaning effectively reduces moisture and can extend the roof’s life. You should have a certified professional inspect the roof for pooling and remove any debris that hinders water flow or holds moisture for an extended period. Roof cleaning is particularly important if trees and hanging plants surround your home.
Regularly inspecting the roof
Regular roof inspections are a surefire way of identifying and fixing roof leaks quickly and efficiently. Sometimes, you can tell if your roof is leaking without going outside. You can start by inspecting the roof through the attic. If you don’t see anything, walk around the house inspecting the siding and the overhang for water damage signs. Having a professional roofer come and go up on the roof is also a good idea.
Don’t Wait. Fix Roof Leaks Immediately
Regardless of how small a leak is, you shouldn’t wait to have it fixed. The best way to handle any roof leak is to fix it immediately. Working with a licensed and insured roofing expert can ensure you get the leak fixed correctly and prevent further damage.
SLC is a qualified, certified, dependable, efficient, and honest roofing company that can assist you with all your roofing needs, including roof leak repairs and replacements. Connect with us to find out more about our roofing services and how our expert team of roofers can help you fix your roof leaks.
