Signs of a Roof Leak and How to Handle It
A leaking roof can cause tremendous damage to your home. Water might find its way through the gaps and holes in the roofing, damaging your walls, ceiling, and insulation. It may also impact the structural integrity of your house. Knowing the signs of a roof leak can help you arrest the situation before it gets out of hand.
Here are the most common signs of a roof leak and how to handle them:
1. Brown Water Spots on the Ceiling
Brown water spots and stains on the ceiling and walls are among the first signs of a leaking roof. Water might work through the leaky roof into the attic and settle on the ceiling.
Over time, the stagnant water will form brown or yellow spots and stains, eventually damaging your ceiling and walls. Aside from fixing the roof, you may have to replace the ceiling and repaint your walls.
2. Cracked or Damaged Shingles
Cracked or damaged shingles are a sign that a leak is waiting to happen. If you notice the shingles on your roofing are not matching, seek professional roof inspection services.
The roofing company will inspect your roof and replace the compromised shingles. Failure to repair the damaged roof in good time can turn a minor leak into a big emergency.
3. Mold on Exterior Walls
Mold growing on exterior walls is one of the signs of a roof leak. Excessive moisture in the attic creates the ideal breeding spot for mold. You might notice mold where the roof edge and the sidewall converge.
If left untreated, the growth might damage the sheathing or destroy the framing, leading to costly repairs. A roofer can help arrest the situation before it gets out of hand.
4. Damaged Plumbing Vent Boots
A roof’s plumbing setup typically consists of a vent pipe and flashing. The pipe has a rubber boot surrounding the vent to prevent water from entering your home. It seals the duct to ensure moisture and outdoor air do not enter the house.
If you notice the rubber on the plumbing vent boot is worn out or damaged, you probably have a leaky roof. Call a roofing contractor to check the plastic base for cracks and metal pieces for corrosion before replacing them.
5. Dripping in the Attic
If your roof has severe damage, you may hear or see dripping in the attic after a heavy downpour. Water will find its way through the holes in the roofing and drip into the attic. Your house may also have an ice dam after snow thawing on the warmer sections of the roof, leading to leakage. Do not ignore intermittent leaks, which can become a big issue if left unrepaired. Always enlist a professional roofer to inspect your roofing for drips and leaks.
6. Rusted Gutters & Chimney Flashing
Rusted gutters and chimney flashing are other common signs of a roof leak. You might notice corrosion along the metal fasteners that can open up the seams with frequent expansion and contractions. The quickest way to fix this issue is to call a roofing company. You can cover the holes and gaps with gutter repair tape if the gutter or chimney flashing is intact.
Contact Cooper Roofing & Solar
Even though roof leaks are common, they often go unnoticed for years. Most homeowners detect leaks on their roofs when the problem is already worse. For this reason, it is always a good idea to enlist roof inspection services to avoid water damage and costly repairs.
Cooper Roofing and Solar can help inspect and fix your roof within your budget. We have experienced roofing experts with a remarkable track record. Get in touch, and we’ll assist you in finding the best solution for your leaking roof.