As a homeowner, knowing how to properly maintain your home’s roof is one of the most important things to keep in mind, whether you plan to stay in your home for years or if you intend to list it for sale on the real estate market in the future. When a roof begins to leak, it’s important to identify and rectify the source of the leak immediately to prevent major issues or even permanent structural damage from occurring. Understanding why a leaky roof is dangerous and how to determine when it’s time to call on the professionals is essential if you want to ensure your home’s structure remains intact without devaluing your investment altogether.
Permanent Structural Damage
One of the biggest motivators to keep in mind if you’re thinking of replacing a leaky roof you have in your home is that a leaky roof can lead to permanent structural damage. When leaky roofs cause permanent damage to wooden rafters, beams, and other support components, it is increasingly difficult to simply repair your roof. When a major roof leak is left unattended for an extended period of time, it is much more likely that you will be required to cover additional structural repair costs along with replacing your entire roof.
Attic and Ceiling Damage
Anytime you experience a roof leak in the home, it’s not uncommon to discover attic and ceiling damage. In fact, most often, attics and ceilings take the first hits when a leak begins. Water damage from a leaky roof will not only permanently damage wooden structures in your attic, but it can also lead to discoloration and malformations depending on the type of flooring, ceilings, and other materials you have installed in your home.
Standing Water
Standing water can lead to an array of issues, from mildew growth to the exposure of mold and other harmful bacteria in the air. When you allow water to accumulate over time without addressing it or removing it from your home, it will also likely seep into the foundation and structural elements of your home’s exterior walls, which will result in permanent damage.
Mold Growth
Another reason why leaky roofs are so dangerous is that they have the potential to create the perfect environment for mold to begin growing and spreading. Even if the roof leak has just begun, there is always a potential risk of discovering mold wherever water is present where it should not be in the home, especially in dark, damp atmospheres. In addition to spotting mold growth due to a leaky roof, it is also important to note that mold has the potential to spread throughout the home.
When mold is left unattended and untreated, it can invade almost every area and aspect of a home or structure, residential or commercial. From spreading through the HVAC system’s vents and ductwork to seeping into the interior of the walls in your home, mold has many different ways it can negatively impact your house and those in your household. Even when it comes to inspecting your roof or other areas of your home, it is often best to do so with the help of a professional roofing team. Professional roofing contractors and companies are not just well-versed in working with various types of roofing issues, including leaky roofs, but they will also arrive on-site with the proper safety gear and equipment to get started with minimal risks.
Health Issues
When you are exposed to standing water, mildew, or mold for any length of time, there is an increased risk of developing health issues. Health issues commonly associated with mold and mildew exposure can include viruses, respiratory infections, or even bronchial attacks. It is also important to keep in mind that those who are immunocompromised or have weakened immune systems are much more likely to experience the adverse effects of being exposed to standing water or mold and mildew.
Electrical Risks
While a small roof leak may be fixable with a simple repair job, such as replacing shingles or even re-sealing flashing, major leaks can also pose electrical risks in the home. When water leaks and damages become so great, they begin seeking into attics and into the interior of your walls, the leak is much more likely to directly impact your electrical outlets. When water leaks are left untreated, you may be at risk anytime you attempt to plug in a new device into your wall or outlet.
Understanding the serious risks associated with a leaky roof and why leaky roofs are dangerous is essential as a homeowner today. The more familiar you are with the signs of a leaking or damaged roof, the easier it will be for you to determine when it is time to call on professional roofing companies near you. If you believe your roof is leaking and poses a potential threat to the structure of your home, turn to the professionals at Allphase Construction & Roofing to get the job done right.
