As your primary line of defence against the outside environment, your roofing system should be in good condition at all times. Unfortunately, even the best roofs can develop leaks eventually.
Roof leaks can lead to serious and expensive issues with your property. Not only is it an inconvenience, but can lead to mould and mildew growth that is both unsightly and a health hazard. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realise that they have a leak until it is too late!
Unfortunately, many property owners are only aware of the most obvious signs of a leak. Telltale signs include dripping and physical puddles, however, there are additional warning signals that can tell you if your roof is leaking. Today, we will be walking you through some of the other, more subtle signs to keep an eye out for.
Curling & Missing Shingles
Most homeowners will only look inside when checking for a leaking roof. However, many do not realise that the exterior can provide as much insight, if not more, into the condition of their roof.
Curling shingles are often a sign that your roof may be leaking. If you notice that your shingles are starting to curl, it means that your roof and their shingles are facing excessive moisture.
Most shingles will curl near the bottom which can expose the inner roof and lead to leaks. Similarly, any missing shingles will also cause leaks as they are no longer able to protect the home.
Stains on the Walls or Ceilings
Most roof leaks are not obvious and immediately visible. However, over time water enters the home and accumulates in low-lying areas. As these surfaces are exposed to moisture, they will begin to discolour
If you are seeing any water stains on your walls or ceilings, it is likely that you have a roof leak. Water stains are characterised by dark brown, black or yellow spots and are the most common indicators of a leak.
Peeling Paint
It is easy to see peeling paint and wall coverings as a sign of age. However, peeling paint or wallpaper is another sign that your roof may be leaking. Water will seep between the wall and paint, dissolving the adhesive holding the paint in place and separating the two.
Sagging Ceilings
For homes with wooden joists, a sagging ceiling may be a sign of a significant leak. Wood is porous and will absorb moisture and will become heavy. If left untreated, this water will pool until it becomes too heavy to support and collapses.
Moul and Mildew Growth
Mould can be extremely difficult to remove once it has taken hold. It is one of the most common signs of excess moisture and may indicate a leak in your roof. Mould spores are everywhere but without proper ventilation they will take hold and grow exponentially, creating stains on walls and ceilings.
Dripping
Unsurprisingly, the most obvious sign of a roof leak is dripping water. This can often be heard in the attic, especially during or after a rainstorm. If you are noticing water dripping from any part of your roof, it is likely that you have a leak.
False Signs to Consider
While it is important to determine if you have a leaking roof, it is important to remember that these signs may be from other issues as well. It is important to be aware of the signs of a roof leak, as they can often lead to more significant and expensive problems down the line.
Leakage is not always easy to detect, and it may be necessary to enlist the help of a professional roofing company for further investigation. These professionals can help you to determine the source of the leak, and whether or not it is something that can be repaired or if a full replacement is necessary.
Leave It To The Professionals
Even if you do not have a leaking roof regular inspections and maintenance are important. This ensures that any small problems are nipped in the bud and can save you money and headaches down the road. If you are unsure of how to perform these inspections yourself, it is best to leave it to the professionals.
If you are noticing any of signs of a roof leak, it is important to take action sooner rather than later. Water Attack Pressure Washing are your go-to roof restoration professionals. With a wide range of services from cleaning and painting to repair and restoration, you can ensure your roof looks and performs its best! Get in touch today!
