Are you wondering whether you have a leaky roof?
Roof leakage is one of the most common problems homeowners experience. When you fail to address it promptly, it also becomes one of the most expensive to fix. After all, water damage can compromise your home’s structural integrity
As a beginner, you might not know where to look. Fortunately, our guide can help. Continue reading and learn about the top five signs your roof is leaking:
1. Spots on Walls and Ceiling
Water spots on your walls or the ceiling could mean you have a leaky roof. However, determining the source of the leak can be tricky.
If the water spot is under the outdoor roofline, the problem is likely in the area where the walls meet the roof. It means your flashing may also be the leak source.
2. Drips and Water Stains
Water stains are larger than spots and often manifest on the ceiling. These take on a puddle-like appearance with a brown-colored ring. They are also tricky since their size does not tell the extent of the leak.
A large leak can sometimes create stains. Examine the discoloration for moisture and molds. Failing to arrest molds can lead to various respiratory issues.
Check for any drips on the walls. Chronic moisture can lead to irreversible roof damage.
3. Cracks and Blisters on Shingles
If you suspect a roof leak, check your roof shingle condition. Cracks and blisters on the shingles can lead to a leaky roof. As your shingles age, exposure to UV rays damages them from the inside.
In turn, they begin to crack and develop blisters. Rainwater can enter these spaces and cause roofing system leaks.
4. Shingle Debris
Shingle debris on your downspouts is another sign of a roof leak. Debris is a sign your shingles are starting to fail. In some cases, a leak already began in your attic.
Aside from debris, missing shingles can also lead to leaks. When it happens, consider replacing them as soon as possible.
5. Growing Walls
Growing walls can signal a leaky roof. When moisture reaches your walls, it causes erosion below the gutters. Your walls will end up bulging while its paint starts chipping.
Tips to Prevent a Leaky Roof
Failing to address a leaking roof can lead to thousands of dollars in repair expenses. Most Americans cannot spend on a $1,000 emergency repair.
Install waterproof barriers on your vents, dormers, skylights, eaves, and chimneys. Use pre-manufactured flashing along the roof openings.
Add roof deck protection to keep your shingles flat. Ventilate your attic to lower humidity levels.
Lastly, invest in good roof insurance coverage. If you live in Florida, learn more about roof damage insurance claims by clicking this post.
Expand Your Home Improvement Knowledge Now
Learning how to identify a leaky roof will save you from costly roof repair. It will also keep your family safe from molds and their harmful effects.
However, home improvement does not stop on your roof. Hire professionals to inspect your house for more problematic areas today.
Did this guide help? If so, consider reading our other posts for more.
