Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home as it is your home’s first defense. It’s important to keep it in good condition so that the structural integrity of your home stays safe. One of the most common issues that can occur after roof damage is leaking. A leak in your roof can cause serious damage to your home, and it can be difficult to find the source of the leak if you don’t know what you are looking for.
There are a few ways that you can spot a leak in your roof:
Storm damaged roofs can leak
The first thing you’ll want to look for is any noticeable roof damage. If you have missing or damaged shingles, then chances are your roof is exposed to the elements. This is how roof leaks start. After a storm, walk around your house to look for any exposed bits of your roof. Clogged gutters can also mean potential roof leaks as water is pooling on your roof instead of being drained away. In colder weather, be sure to look out for ice dams. These are piles of ice that form on the roof then melt as your ceiling gets heated, and eventually refreeze once it is far enough away from the heat. These can also stop water from draining off your roof.
Water stains and spots on ceilings or walls
One way to spot roof leaks is to look for water stains on your ceiling. If you see water stains, it’s a good indication that there is a leak in your roof. Water stains are any discoloration you notice forming on your ceiling. Whether they are from your roof or your pipes, always get water stains looked at right away to avoid dangerous damage to your home. Roof leaks don’t always cause dripping water, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t serious damage to your home happening. If you are unsure if a stain is a water stain, lightly press on it to see how firm it is. If it moves with slight pressure, then your ceiling is wet and needs to be looked at.
Deteriorated or old shingles
Another way to spot a leak is to look for cracks, curling, or bald spots in your shingles. If you see any of these types of damage, it’s important to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home. Shingle damage is often caused by severe weather, such as storms or wind. If you experience severe weather, walk around the outside of your house to spot any noticeable damage, or hire a professional roofing company for a roof inspection.
Mold and mildew in your attic
Mildew or mold in your attic is another sign that your roof is compromised. Once the moisture seeps through your roof, it can get stuck in areas that are not ventilated that well. Mold and mildew then form as a result of water pooling in your roof. If caught soon enough, mold and mildew can be taken care of with relatively little roof replacement. However, if left unattended, mold and mildew will create a bigger problem, and may create necessity for a total roof replacement. Mold is especially dangerous and should only be dealt with by a professional for the safety of you and your home.
What to do about a leaky roof?
Finding the source of a roof leak can be tricky. If you suspect that there is a leak in your roof, it’s important to have it checked out as soon as possible. A professional roofer will be able to inspect your roof and determine the source of the leak. Once the leak is found, they will be able to repair it and prevent further damage to your home. For your safety, and the safety of your home, get roof leaks looked at as soon as possible.
If you suspect your roof is leaking, then call Gale Force Roofing & Restoration at 813-805-8096 to schedule your complimentary roof inspection today!