Roof Leaks, And How To Identify Them

There are many household problems that can be procrastinated. However, a leaking roof should take the highest priority out of all your home maintenance issues. A leaking roof may seem like more of an annoyance than a severe problem, but that is far from the truth. Leaks in your roof can develop due to a variety of reasons: improper installation, wind or storm damage, lack of maintenance, or it simply may just be time to replace your roof.

Even a small leak is a critical issue that needs to be addressed. Consistent water intrusion will over-time work its way down from your attic to the very foundation of your home, wreaking havoc on the structural integrity of your home, and costing you thousands in the process.

How does a leak damage my home?

It’s important for homeowners to understand the severity of damage that a simple leak can cause. So here are some of the obvious and less-obvious ways that a leak big or small can gradually destroy your home from the inside out.

1. Attic and Ceiling Damage

The initial point of damage will almost always be the attic and the items stored in there if any. If there is no attic the first point of damage will be the interior ceiling, you’ll be able to identify ceiling water damage by observing the paint and plaster. Changes in color, bubbling, and ripples are some of the first signs of water damage to your ceiling.

2. Mold & Mildew

In the longer term, one of the most serious consequences of a leaking roof is mold and mildew growth. Mold can spread throughout the home’s structure, to the HVAC system, and then to the rest of the house through the vents where it can invade carpets, furniture, and even clothing. Black mold is the most common type resulting from chronic water intrusion. Toxic black mold growth is rare, but even non-toxic black mold attacks wood framing, ceiling tiles, and wall and floor coverings. The potential damages from mold and mildew aren’t limited to just the structure of your home. Long-term neglect to remove mold and repair the cause of the mold in the first place can cause serious health issues and can be especially deadly to those with high sensitivity and breathing issues. 

3. Fire Hazards

If your electrical wiring is present in an attic or ceiling, a leaky roof could pose a fire threat from shorted wires. It is highly recommended to turn off electricity to the area that’s affected and have a professional inspect the entirety of the wiring.

4. Compromised Structural Integrity

The most visually apparent consequence of a leaking roof is the damaged rafters, ceiling joists, wall framing, and even fascia boards and exterior trim can become victims of water intrusion. Chronic roof leaks lead to wood deterioration and weakened rotten roof framing causes serious problems. That can only be remedied by a professional and qualified roofing contractor.

Common areas where roof leaks occur

1. The Shingle Rows

Leaks often occur within the field of shingles; shingles can develop cracks due to age, wear & tear, and unrepaired damage. Water can work itself into the various potential faults, it’s important to have periodic maintenance and inspections by a professional roofing contractor to identify these potential problems before more damage occurs.

2. The Valleys

The place where roofing panes intersect is known as the valley. Valleys are typically reinforced and sealed. But inevitably anywhere a seam exists a leak can potentially occur. If the shingles are improperly trimmed at the point of installation, water can travel down and potentially penetrate into the structural integrity of your home.

3. Chimneys & Flashing

Chimneys are a common area where roof leaks occur. The chimney has multiple points that must all work together to properly repel water. If any of the flashing or counter-flashing fails, water can penetrate and leak into your home. The integrity of the brick-and-mortar that makes up your chimney is a critical component as well. Even a small crack or hole can be an entry point for moisture.

If you notice a leak in your home, please give us a call.  Inspections are free and we promise no sales gimmicks, just an honest assessment of your needs. Fill out the contact form below, or give us a call at (252)515-1016 https://fortituderoofing.co/contact-us

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