Do you have stains on the walls and ceiling of your home? Does your roof have missing, damaged, or rotting shingles? Does your roof appear to be sagging in a specific area? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, you may have a leaky roof on your hands. That’s why Madison Roofing would like to provide you with the following list of property damage caused by a leaky roof.
Attic & Ceiling Damage
If your home has an attic, this area will likely be the first to sustain property damage caused by a leaky roof. Water will not only affect any belongings stored there, but they may also become moldy due to a damp environment. Even worse, water will slowly make its way down through your home, damaging your walls and ceilings. That’s why it’s important to look out for the following signs:
- Discolored, bubbling, or peeling paint on ceilings and walls.
- Damaged lights and fans mounted on the ceiling.
- Water drips and puddles on your floors.
If you discover any of these issues, it’s essential to hire a Boise roofing company like Madison Roofing to assess and repair damaged areas before they get worse.
Mold & Mildew
Mold and mildew are unwanted effects of a leaky roof. Left ignored, they can spread throughout your home, even into your heating and cooling system. If not addressed promptly, mold and mildew will get worse over time and cause hazardous health problems, including:
- Rhinitis
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Skin irritations
- Sinus congestion
The most dangerous type of mold caused by a leaky roof is toxic black mold. If you discover black mold inside your home, you should never attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, always work with a professional mold remediation company to get rid of it safely.
Fire Hazards
If water from a leaky roof comes into contact with your home’s electrical wiring, it can create an open circuit resulting in a fire. It can also be dangerous if water comes into contact with uncovered wires or metal junction boxes, resulting in electrocution with whoever comes into contact with them. If you find a leak within your home – from your roof or elsewhere – make sure to shut off the power to the circuits running through the affected area and contact a professional electrician to resolve the problem.
High Energy Bills
If your energy bills are higher than normal, it might be the result of a leaky roof. Left unchecked, a leaky roof will damage the insulation in your attic over time. Water-soaked insulation takes a long time to dry out and can break down if it’s always wet. Repairing a leaky roof can prevent costly damage to your attic insulation and keep your energy bills down.
Structural Deterioration
One of the worst types of property damage a homeowner has to deal with is structural deterioration due to a leaky roof. Below are the telltale signs of trouble to look out for:
- Rotting wood
- Parts of the roof sagging or losing strength
- Bowing walls
- Waterlogged, spongy foundations
If you suspect you have any of the structural issues above, it’s essential to contact a professional contractor to inspect your home and undertake any necessary repairs as soon as possible.
How to Prevent a Leaky Roof
Preventative maintenance is the key to preventing leaks and ensuring your roof is in optimal condition:
- Ensure skylights, chimneys, and other vulnerable spots are adequately sealed
- Check for any cracked plumbing vents.
- Keep your gutters clean and clear of debris
- Replace any cracked, curling, or damaged shingles
Madison Roofing
A leak in your roof can be caused by a number of reasons. These include improper installation, poor insulation, weather damage, age, or neglect. Whatever the cause, it’s important to have a leaky roof repaired as soon as possible to protect the safety of your home, family, and possessions.
At Madison Roofing, we offer expert roof repair services for Treasure Valley homeowners. Our Boise roofing professionals will accurately diagnose the problem and provide you with a lasting solution. If your roof is leaking, don’t put it off. For expert repairs that prevent damage to your home, contact us today by filling out our online form or give us a call at (208) 344-5379.
