According to architectural surveys, around 40% of building-related problems are caused by water leaks that damage the structure of a house. Unfortunately, most of these problems are centered around the roof since it is the main defense of a house against the weather, and many people do not realize the damage until it is too late.
It is very important to recognize the signs of a roof leak to prevent further damage and costly expenses. Signs such as water spots, dripping water, mold, and a wet roof deck are the four most prominent signs of a roof leak. Here is what you should know about these signs so that you can identify roof leaks in your home before they get worse.
Water Spots
One of the first signs that your roof might have suffered some damage is the sight of yellow or brownish stains on the ceiling or the walls. These spots are usually the result of a leaking roof or plumbing issue.
Even if the spots feel dry to the touch, they still indicate that there might be a problem with the structure of your roof and that you need to check on it. If there is an issue with the installation of the roof, the best idea is to reach out to roofing contractors rather than try to fix the problem yourself.
Dripping Water
Another clear sign that your roof has been damaged is when you notice water dripping from the ceiling during rainy days. There are many possible reasons for water dripping from the ceiling, but the most frequent ones are plumbing or roof leaks.
Plumbing leaks occur because of rusty pipes, worn-out caulk, sweating pipes, and more. On the other hand, the cause of most roof leaks is rainwater that penetrates damaged shingles or tiles.
Mold Growth
If lately the air inside your home feels damp and heavy to breathe, this might indicate that the level of moisture in the house has increased. A high level of moisture can cause mold growth inside the home.
Mold can appear on interior and exterior walls and tends to spread rapidly if the air and surface are damp. So if you notice tiny greenish spots forming in the corners of your house, it might be a good idea to check the roof for any leaks because mold can be very harmful to your health.
Wet Roof Deck
This last sign is probably the most dangerous. If your house has a wooden roof deck, then excess water may cause the planks to decay and rot, thus making them more fragile. There are several signs to check for deck decay, such as darkened spots, a damp and musty smell, and a soft, spongy feel.
Be careful! A damaged roof deck might be very dangerous since it can collapse if it is not fixed as soon as possible. Also, if the moisture extends beyond the roof deck, this might affect other parts of the house, like the electrical system. Make sure to contact a professional roofing company to inspect your home and repair or replace your roof as needed.
