Unexpected Hazards of a Leaky Roof
Water damage can be a serious problem. Roof leaks can cause serious damage to your home and safety.
You can procrastinate on many household issues. A leaky roof should be the top priority in your home maintenance list. There are many reasons that a roof can leak: poor installation, storm damage, or lack of maintenance. It could be that it is time to replace your roof. Remember that roofs can only last between 20 and 30 years.
A small roof leak can have a devastating effect on your household. While most homeowners believe a leaky roof is a structural problem it can pose safety and health hazards. Water intrusion from the roof will eventually reach the foundation of your house. This can cause costly damage. These are just a few of the ways that a roof leak could cause damage to your home.
- Higher utility bills and more wasted energy
A leaking roof can also lead to high utility bills. This is because water intrusion into the attic area can cause damage. It takes time for insulation to dry because it becomes saturated. The insulation will be significantly depleted if the roof leak is not repaired immediately. Your home will also lose heat and cool air. This will lead to higher utility bills.
- Mold and mildew in the interior
Mold and mildew growth are the most severe consequences of a leaky roof. Mold can spread through the structure of the home, to the HVAC system, and then to the rest of the house via the vents. It can infiltrate carpets, furniture, and clothing.
The most common form of black mold that results from water intrusion is called “chronic water infiltration”. Although toxic black mold is uncommon, it can attack wood framing, ceiling tiles, and wall and floor coverings, as well as ceiling tiles. It is very difficult to eradicate mold and can be quite costly.
- Mold can cause health problems
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, mold and mildew can cause serious health problems, particularly for people with high sensitivity. This includes nasal congestion, rhinitis and inflammations, as well as asthma. Once mold spores are present, they continue to be produced, which can lead to allergic reactions and asthmatic symptoms.
- Water damage can cause a fire hazard
A leaky roof can cause a fire hazard due to shorted wires if it is connected to electrical wiring. It is highly recommended that you turn off the electricity in the affected area and have an electrician inspect it.
- Ceiling and attic damage
A roof leak can cause damage to your attic and any items that are stored there. The interior ceiling will be damaged if there is no attic or the leak is large. Ceiling paint that has been affected will turn a dark brown and ceiling plaster can expand and bubble. Leakage of water can also cause damage to plaster and paint on walls nearby. Ceiling-mounted fans and lights can also be damaged.
- Compromised structural integrity
Water intrusion can lead to damage to roof rafters, ceiling beams, wall framing, fascia boards, and exterior trim. Wood deterioration can be caused by roof leakage. Worse, rotten roof framing can cause serious problems that will require professional assistance. Water leaking into walls and ceiling joists can lead to costly wood framing repairs.
Water-damaged wood that is too weak or spongey can lead to peeling paint, damaged ceilings, and buckled wall coverings. If there is a long-standing roof leak, structural damage is inevitable. A large portion of the ceiling may collapse and cause damage to anything below. It would be terrible to discover your television or laptop under a collapsed ceiling.
Roof leaks should not be taken lightly. If you suspect water intrusion, contact a licensed roofing contractor.
This article was written by a roofing and solar installation specialist at HD Roofing & Construction. At HD Roofing & Construction, our roofing team is the heart of the company, and we are proud to have a highly-trained, professional team. If you need a roof over your head, we’ve got you covered. We offer a variety of roofing and home improvement services, including roof replacement and repairs, emergency tarps, home restoration, and solar! We also offer solar panels in Tampa!
