Roof leaks are frustrating, and the often can be costly repairs. Sometimes, they’re obvious, such as seeing water spots on the ceiling, but other times it may be trickier to notice a leak. Plus, even if you notice the damage, finding out where the leak is coming from is another mess of its own. Here are a few signs of a roof leak you should not ignore:
- Water spots on ceilings or walls – these stains usually extend across the ceiling or run down the walls. It can often be hard to determine where the water is coming in, but a professional can come out and help find the culprit. These stains are not only unsightly, they will soon cause extensive damage.
- Missing, cracked, or damaged shingles – Water often gets in through a missing or damaged shingle on your roof. The area underneath that shingle is left vulnerable to water damage and can pour through these materials and into your home.
- Missing or damaged flashing – If you have damaged flashing, the best way to remedy the problem is to remove and replace it. Flashing often extends under some shingles, so a professional roofer may need to remove some shingles, replace the flashing, and then put the shingles back in place. Due to the possibility of damaging the shingles or replacing them incorrectly, causing another potential leaking hazard, it’s best an expert do this. If flashing is damaged or missing and there is a window or door below the area, water can seep behind the trim, and you may not notice it for years. The water will eventually destroy the framing and/or sheathing, which is dangerous.
- Water spots or wet roof decking – This issue is typically seen through the attic. A roof is comprised of several layers of materials that work together to complete the full roof structure. One of the most crucial layers is the roof decking—it’s essentially the foundation of your roof. If you see water spots on the decking or, worse, it’s completely wet, that is a clear indication of a roof leak.
- Mold growth (outside or inside) – Mold is dangerous whether it is inside or outside. If you notice mold growing on exterior or interior walls, get a contractor out to see what the problem is before your family gets sick.
- Stains around a bathroom fan – If you notice stains around the fan in your bathroom, it could mean the vent cap on your roof is leaking. Condensation could be the culprit, which you’ll also want to address, but still have a roofer come out to check that the cap isn’t letting water into your home.
If leak repairs aren’t tackled quickly, even small leaks will lead to huge problems. From mold, rotted framing, destroyed insulation, and damaged ceilings and walls, the repair bill will only get higher and higher. Plus, the damage water does to a home can become a safety hazard. RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors has handled some of the most complex roofing repairs in Utah. With something this important, only trust skilled professionals to make sure the repairs are complete.
