Unexpected Dangers Leaky Roofs Can Cause You

A leaking roof can cause you and your family a variety of serious problems. A roof may begin leaking for different reasons, including poor installation, damage from harsh weather conditions and negligent upkeep. Even a small leak can lead to a series of home structural, health and safety hazards, from the attic down through your home’s foundation. Most roofs are predicted to last for 20 to 30 years if well maintained and repaired when needed. Why not take good care of your roof so that you can enjoy its protection and attractive curb appeal throughout those full 20 to 30 years? 

Major Unexpected Dangers that Your Leaky Roof Can Cause

Some major unexpected problems and dangers that your leaking roof can cause for you and your household include the following: 

• Attic and Upper Floor Ceiling Damage. The first sign of harm that a leak in your roof may cause is water damage to your home’s attic and items you have stored there. If the leak is extensive, or if your home has no attic, the ceiling interior of your top floor will be damaged. Plaster may begin to bubble and swell as ceiling paint darkens and stains. The adjoining walls will also suffer water damage, along with any ceiling lighting or fans. 

• Mold and Mildew Development. If mold and mildew develop as a result of a leak in your roof, your home’s entire structure can be affected. Mold can also invade the HVAC system, including the vents. Eventually, mold and mildew may be present on your rugs, furniture, and personal belongings. The most common type of mold caused by water leaks is black mold. The non-toxic variety can weaken wooden framing, wall and floor surfaces or coverings and ceiling tiles. Toxic black mold can cause health hazards like lasting nasal congestion and asthma.

• Weakened Home Structure. Over time, a leaking roof can cause damage to ceiling joists, rafters, beams, wall framing or fascia boards. Serious and chronic water leakage through your roof can result in rotting roof framing that must be repaired or replaced by roofing contractors. When neglected, continuous water leaks from the roof can cause damage to the entire structure and interior of your home, which can be extremely costly to recover from.

• Fire Hazard. Serious leaks can also short out electrical wiring in ceilings and walls. If you detect a leak in your roof near ceiling or wall wiring, you should turn off the electricity in these areas until an electrician can examine the affected wires.

When you contact the experts at Johnson Roofing located in Albany, Auckland, NZ, you will receive top-quality essential information, advice, a roof inspection and all necessary repair or replacement services to restore your leaky roof. Our experienced professional roofers will ensure that your roof is as good as new, free of leaks and in excellent condition to protect your home and everyone in your household from harsh seasonal weather and extreme temperatures.