How Do You Know if You Have a Roof Leak?

11/3/2022 (Permalink)

How Do You Know if You Have a Roof Leak?

Water leaks are a homeowner's worst nightmare. They can waste a lot of money, damage your home, and put you at risk for mold growth. If you think you have a roof leak that needs repair, here are some things to look out for.

Shingle damage

Shingles are designed to withstand a lot of abuse, but they aren't indestructible. Hail and high winds can cause shingles to be lifted and torn off the roof. Ice dams will do the same thing as well. A roof leak that was caused by a sagging or rotting deck should be repaired right away before it becomes worse and causes more damage to your home's structure. The longer you wait for this type of repair, the harder it will be for you when it comes time to replace your roofing materials.

If your shingles have been damaged, there's a good chance that there is some sort of water infiltration problem with your roof as well; otherwise, why would they have become damaged in the first place? Water leakage across seams and through layers of shingle will quickly lead to mold problems behind walls and ceilings - which could then lead further structural damage down the road if left untreated. Take care now so that later doesn't cost even more money (and stress).

Mold

Even if you don't see the leak right away, mold can still grow. Mold is a fungus that grows in damp areas. It can grow on wood, drywall, and other surfaces. Mold looks like spots or splotches of black, green, or white fuzz on your ceiling or walls. Repairing a roof leak quickly will help protect your Lafayette, CO home from mold damage.

Ceiling stains

If your ceiling has black mold, black streaks, or black spots that have been there for a while, this is likely the result of water damage. If you see pink or red discoloration in addition to these stains, it means that the wood under your ceiling has been damaged by moisture. The same is true if you see blue discoloration.

Spots on the ceiling

If you see spots on your ceiling and aren't sure why it could be because of a roof leak. However, it could also be due to condensation or even water damage caused by other issues like plumbing problems. Therefore, if you suspect that there's a leak in your roof but don't know for certain, it's best to call a professional.

Water in your light fixtures

Water in your light fixtures is a sign that you have a roof leak. When it rains, water will run down the edges of your home and can enter through cracks and crevices in your roof or around the attic vents. If you’re experiencing water damage, you may notice mold growing on the ceiling or walls in these areas.

Once you’re sure there’s a leak, take a look at how far back it goes: if only one area is damaged but everything else looks fine, chances are it just needs some minor repairs rather than an entire replacement.

• If you notice any of these signs, you should call a roofing professional right away to stop the leak before more damage occurs.
• If you notice any of these signs, you should call a roofing professional right away to stop the leak before more damage occurs.

• Water stains on your ceiling or walls—especially if they are in the same spot
• Raised spots on your ceilings or walls—these may be caused by mold and mildew
• Mold growth near windows or doors that have been left open for extended periods of time

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional like SERVPRO of Lafayette/Louisville. We offer free inspections, so call us today at (303) 604-6607 to schedule yours.