5 Problems that Come from a Leaky Roof

A leaky roof can be a nuisance to say the least. But did you know that a leaky roof can also create a number of different problems for your home or business?

That’s right – leaks in a roof can be signs of much more serious dangers that can be present if not addressed. This may include everything from structural damage as well as potential health risks from mold and other threats. Above all, if you notice a leak in your roof, it’s best to take care of it sooner rather than later.

So what causes a leaky roof? The truth is, it can be any number of things including:

• Damage from winds and storms
• Poor initial roof installation
• Little or no maintenance to the roof
• Wear and tear from roof age

If you suspect any of these signs, it’s best to have your roof checked by a trusted professional.

Aside from the water stains on your ceiling, here are some of the more serious issues a leaky roof can create.

1 – Potential for Mold or Mildew

Both mold and mildew require moisture to grow and spread. And neither are good for your health. So, whether your roof leak is coming from a leaking HVAC unit or from rain, it’s never good for water to remain present in any of structure of a home or business.

In addition, when mold or mildew issues are left unaddressed for long enough, it can be very difficult to remove. In many cases, the damage repair is also much more costly than had the issue been fixed earlier on. Above all, lingering moisture is not good for your roof and can create larger problems over time.

2 – Potential Fire Hazard

We often don’t think about all the electrical components in a building or home, but there is wiring everywhere. In the walls, in the attic, on the floor, etc. If water happens to touch exposed wiring, this could create an electrical spark. Sparks can create fire.

Obviously this creates a real danger and hazard to anyone inside. So it’s not something that should be ignored.

3 – Damage to Your Ceiling and Attic

This is one of the more apparent problems that a leaky roof can create. Whether from a rainstorm or other issue, when your roof is leaking, one of the first things you’ll notice are wet areas on your ceiling. After drying, you may notice stains where the water once was.

Sitting water can not only damage the paint and create an eye sore on your ceiling, but it can also damage the ceiling structurally. If visible water in the ceiling is near light fixtures, water can also make its way toward those areas, thereby creating damage to those structures.

4 – Water on the Floor Can Cause Slipping

When a roof is leaking, much of the time some of that water will find its way onto the floor. So if carpet is underneath the ceiling, that water will over time create stains and damage the carpet underneath, which sounds bad enough on its own.

However, if the flooring underneath the ceiling is a hard surface such as tile, then that water creates a real hazard for slipping and falling.

5 – A Leaky Roof Can Compromise the Entire Integrity of Your Home

When you think about the damage that a leaky roof can create, it’s hardly ever just your roof or ceiling that is affected. Aside from obvious things such washed off paint and texturing, there are other structural concerns to consider.

Over time, water damage can weaken the structure of the ceiling. In extreme cases, if left unattended for too long, that ceiling could collapse, creating a nightmare of necessary repairs in the process. Not to mention, it is extremely dangerous and likely to cause damage to items in the home or building, along with the structure itself.

So what may seem like a minor issue, can create more costly problems if left unattended.

Help for a Leaky Roof

As you can see, a leaky roof is something to take seriously and not put off. If you have noticed a roof leak in your home or business, we encourage you to contact us for a complimentary assessment.

We can assess any damage and advise on necessary repairs. In doing so, we will offer the professional and quality service you deserve in a trusted roofing company.