13
Aug

7 Massive Damaging effects of a Roof Leak.

The blog is about roof leaking, its causes, and significant damaging effects, including structural damage, foundation problems, mold, and mildew growth.

A house is where one finds peace and safety from social threats and environmental hazards like scorching sunlight and heavy rain. The significant adverse effect to a built structure is caused when the roof leaks, which may be because of improper ventilation, faulty material or incorrect installation, obstructed flow of water, negligence in maintenance, or an ancient structure.

A leaking roof can cause various severe issues and needs repair on an immediate basis. Delaying the treatment may cause more damage to your home. It’s always recommended to hire a professional who knows the job well. A local contractor can easily find and fix the leak. This way, you will save your time and ensure that the problem will not re-occur.

A regularly maintained roof is said to last for about 20 to 30 years. If not, then the damage will go all around the house, from the top to the foundations. A list of problems may occur, but a leaking roof causes 7 massive damaging effects. 

Damaged roof

The initial signs of roof leakage are seen on the roof slab’s interior and upper areas of the house, including the attic. The plaster starts bubbling, and some parts of the ceiling will have relatively darker patches. It may affect the adjoining walls and electrical fixtures on the ceiling. In worst cases, ceiling tiles may weaken and fall to the ground.

Weakened Structure

Structural members like wall frames, beams, rafters, ceiling joists are badly affected by the roof. When the water inflow is higher or stays for an extended period, it rots the structural members and weakens the house’s whole structure.

Stained Walls

Beautiful walls add to the aesthetic value of the house. Prolonged roof leakage may cause chemical discoloration in the walls, resulting in dark patches and bubbling in the plaster.

Mold and Mildew Development

Due to leakage in the roof, mold and mildew can be developed, affecting the entire structure. It jeopardizes the construction as well as the aesthetics of the building. It may disturb the HVAC system and the vents too. Black mold is the most common type. If it affects the furnishing and other personal belongings, it may ruin the interior decor, as well as the structural members.

Insulation Damage

Every type of insulation, if unchecked for a long time, may get affected by roof leakage. This mostly happens in the upper structures, for example, an attic. It may reach the ceiling and walls due to the “trickle-down effect,” making them damp and moldy.

Floor Damage

The building’s flooring is also poorly affected, making it look patchy and bubbled, whether it is carpeted or cladded with floor beams, plywood, or hardwood. This happens when the roof leakage is not treated for a long time. Slippery floors may get more slippery and may cause an accident.

Fire Hazards

Electrical wiring of a building is present mainly in the upper areas, especially the ceiling. If the roof is leaking, it may cause a short circuit, and a vast fire may ablaze, causing a crucial accident.

Getting a roof repaired is an issue which needs to be catered to on an urgent basis to protect the money and health of yourself and your loved ones.