6 Dangers of Ignoring a Leaky Roof
- By Admin
- •
- 30 Jul, 2018
- •
While there are many home repair projects that can be left incomplete for weeks, months or even years, replacing a leaky roof is not one of them. Leaks can happen in any roof, but if you live in a rainy area where large volumes of water could enter your home, you should be extra attentive.
How Do I Know If I Have a Leaky Roof?
There are several subtle signs that your roof is leaking in addition to more obvious signs, like:
- Mold on attic insulation
- Musty smell in the attic
- Decreased energy efficiency
- Declining indoor air quality
- Curling or cupping shingles
- Granules collecting in the gutters
- Peeling paint around skylights
- Darkening ceiling paint
- Water spots on ceilings and walls
- Water dripping from the ceiling
What Causes a Leaky Roof?
There’s a long list of potential causes of a leaky roof, ranging from harsh weather to improper installation. Some of the most common are:
- Broken or missing shingles
- Damaged flashing
- Clogged gutters
- Inadequate roofing materials
- Ice dams
- Improperly sealed valleys
The Dangers of Postponing Repairs
1. Interior Damage
For homes with an attic, the biggest danger of a leaky roof is damage to wood and stored items. Moisture buildup in the attic could lead to mold and dry rot.
If your home does not have an attic, a leaky roof will ruin the interior ceiling by darkening the paint and causing plaster to bubble and expand. Large leaks will also damage plaster on nearby walls and ceiling-mounted lights and fans.
2. Mold and Mildew Problems
Mold and mildew growth is another issue whenever you have a roof leak. The longer the leak goes untreated, the more serious the growth. Due to its sporous nature, mold can spread throughout your home to your HVAC system, vents, carpets, furniture and even clothing.
In rare and chronic cases, toxigenic black mold can attack wood framing, ceiling tiles and wall and floor coverings.
3. Health Concerns
Mold and mildew intrusions aren’t only an inconvenience; they can cause serious health issues as well. Those with delicate immune systems, respiratory conditions and sensitivity to poor air quality are most likely to suffer. Unless taken care of by a professional, the mold spores will continue to reproduce and could cause someone to have an allergic reaction, asthma attack or more serious health problems.
4. Fire Hazards
Electrical wiring throughout the attic or ceiling could pose a serious fire risk if your roof has sprung a leak. Wet electrical wiring is never a good thing, especially in a rarely visited part of your home. If you notice a leak in your attic or ceiling, turn off electricity to the affected area and call an electrician to examine it.
5. Higher Utility Bills
Another side effect of a leaky roof is wasted energy. Insulation is easily waterlogged, so your home’s energy efficiency will diminish significantly if repair and inspection are put off for a long time. Chronic water intrusion will cause your home to lose hot and cool air, resulting in higher utility bills.
6. Structural Damage
Water is an extremely powerful element that can damage your home’s structural integrity. Rafters, ceiling joists, wall framing and even fascia boards and exterior trim will inevitably be severely damaged by a leaking roof. Prolonged leaks can lead to wood deterioration, rotted roof framing and other problems that will require help from a professional.
Roof Inspections, Maintenance, and Repair in Spokane
If your roof is showing signs of failure, trust the highly skilled roofers at Alpine Construction to fix it. Our roofers have extensive experience installing, repairing and maintaining residential roofs and are up to date on proper procedures for handling a variety of roofing materials. Let us help you find the right roofing solution for you and your budget. Contact us online today for your FREE estimate or call 509-448-8099.
