7 Hidden Dangers of a Leaky Roof You Shouldn’t Ignore
You come home one day to notice a water spot on one of your upper-floor ceilings. If there are no obvious broken pipes, then it is likely a roof leak. Roof leaks travel, and when you see them on the interior of your home, the roof has been leaking for some time. Thinking of just painting over the problem and covering it up? That would not be a wise choice. You must investigate a roof leak thoroughly because it could have serious consequences for you, your family, and your home. Here are the top seven dangers of a leaky roof.
Mold and mildew problems
A roof leak can cause serious health issues. Whenever a roof leaks, mold and mildew can grow and spread throughout the ceilings and walls of your home. Once this mold and mildew are in the air, the HVAC system will deposit them in the rest of your house through the vents. Mold and mildew are extremely harmful to breathe, and certain types of mold are hazardous to health. Mold can be difficult to remove as well. The quicker you repair your roof, the less damage the mold will have.
Health issues related to mold
Mold doesn’t just cause visible damage to your home; it can also lead to health problems. Anyone can be sensitive to mold, but those with allergies and asthma are particularly prone to problems. Mold spores continue to grow until the problem is solved. Proper cleaning of the mold is necessary to restore your house to a healthy condition.
Ceiling and attic damage
When a leak occurs in your roof, water enters your attic. If you don’t have an attic, the water is going right to the small area above your ceiling. This can cause damage to the items stored in the attic, the ceiling itself, and any surrounding walls. If there is a heavy leak, you can also have issues with any lights or fans mounted on the ceiling. Painted or plastered walls will also be affected by water damage.
Energy inefficiency
Water leaking from the roof can affect your insulation. Once the insulation is saturated with water, it no longer functions correctly. When your insulation is not functioning properly, you will experience energy loss, resulting in higher utility bills.
Slipping hazard
If the leak is severe, water could be collecting to create a slipping hazard. If you have young children or elderly relatives, be sure to clean up the water quickly to prevent falls.
Structural damage
A leaky roof will cause apparent structural damage to your home. Water penetration on your wood rafters, wall frames, ceiling joints, and any other areas will lead to deterioration. This can cause the entire home’s structure to be weakened. Depending on how long the leak was left unrepaire,d the walls of your home and the framing could also be compromised. In the event of water damage, it is essential to contact a professional to assess any structural issues.
Fire hazard
If you have any electrical equipment in the attic, water from leaks could cause wires to short out, potentially leading to a fire. You should call an electrician to inspect any electrical components in your attic before turning the power back on.
When you notice a water spot on your ceiling or suspect a leaky roof, you must take action quickly. To help prevent these seven dangerous situations, and for professional repair and installation, call the experts at GDC Contracting.
