Why a Leaky Roof Is a Dangerous Roof
Aside from getting completely crushed by a falling tree, a leak is possibly the worst thing that can happen to a roof. It can create a serious nuisance for you and your family, and is almost always a sign that you need a roof replacement. It can also be dangerous for your home overall, especially if you don’t address it quickly. Here are just a few reasons why. Damage to Your Ceilings and Attic Water damage to your roof is bad enough, but a leak can cause serious problems for your attic and ceilings as water leaks into your home. You might even notice signs of this happening already. If you notice brown spots on your ceiling or a musty smell coming from your attic, water may have leaked into your home from a damaged roof. Water Damage to Your Walls Of course, your attic and ceilings aren’t the only parts of your home that could be damaged by a leaky roof. Your walls might also sustain water damage, especially if you’ve had a leaky roof for some time. Again, watch for brown spots on your walls, especially close to the ceiling. These are obvious signs of water damage. The drywall in these damaged areas might even feel soft and spongy if the problem is bad enough. Mold and Mildew Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments such as a house with a leaky roof. Mold is a serious health hazard, but it can get even worse if you or anyone in your home has allergies. You might see signs of mold growth in the form of black spots or streaks in your walls, but you’re more likely to notice signs of mold allergies such as runny noses, sore throats, itchy eyes, and upper respiratory problems. Mold in your home should be removed as soon as possible, but you will need to replace your leaky roof if that is the culprit. If you don’t, the mold will just come back. Fire Hazards Believe it or not, a leaky roof can create a fire hazard for your home. The moisture that leaks through your roof can damage the wiring in your home, which can cause a fire as well as some nasty shocks if you try to use the wrong electrical outlet. If you suspect that you have a leak in your roof, don’t wait to have it repaired. Contact HomeOver General Contractors and let us take a look at it.
Where Can You Usually Find Mold on Your Roof?
Mold can grow anywhere there is moisture and oxygen. It’s among the last things you want to see in your home because it can deteriorate building materials and compromise your family’s health. Asthma attacks, sneezing, runny nose, skin rashes and headaches are common health risks associated with mold growth. Moreover, this issue often occurs in leaky, damaged or poorly ventilated roofs. Here’s where you can usually see mold growth in a roofing system. Under the Shingles Shingles protect your roof and your indoor spaces from the elements. However, moisture can infiltrate and get trapped under lifted, damaged or improperly installed shingles, creating the ideal environment for mold growth. Routine inspections can help experts identify and immediately address areas where mold might begin to take root before it spreads. Around Gutters and Downspouts Gutters and downspouts lead water away from your roof and home’s foundation. Over time, they can get clogged with leaves, twigs and debris, resulting in standing water. When not dealt with quickly, moisture can seep into the roof deck or fascia boards, making them a hotspot for mold growth. You can easily avoid this problem by scheduling gutter cleaning at least twice a year. Shaded Areas Parts of your roof that receive little to no sun are more susceptible to mold growth. Sunlight naturally dries moisture, discouraging mold growth. If your home is surrounded by large trees or near buildings, mold is more likely to grow on your roof. Trimming tree branches to increase sunlight exposure can help reduce the risk of mold in shaded areas. Near Chimneys and Vents It isn’t uncommon for mold to appear in areas around chimneys and roof vents. The flashing used to seal these structures can sometimes fail, allowing water to penetrate and become trapped. Regularly checking the seals and flashing around chimneys and vents for wear and tear can prevent water infiltration and mold growth. On Roof Valleys Organic debris like leaves, branches and dirt can accumulate in valleys or areas where two roof planes intersect. These materials hold moisture, creating the ideal environment for mold to flourish. Keeping your roof debris-free is crucial in preventing mold growth. Mold on your roof is an issue you must address promptly to protect your home’s structure and your family’s well-being. Whether you need minor repairs or a total roof replacement, HomeOver General Contractors is ready to help. Call us at (972) 483-2641 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation.
