3 Hazards Of A Leaky Roof In Need Of Repairs

If you're lucky, your roof may reach the end of its life without the need for repairs. However, roof leaks are common, so there's a good chance you'll have to deal with a leaky roof and roof repairs at some point. You may be tempted to put off repairing a roof leak if the leak isn't very bad, but that's not a good idea. Here are three serious dangers associated with roof leaks and why you should call a roofer to make repairs promptly.

1. The Water Leak Rots Wood Over Time

When rain gets under asphalt shingles, the deck begins to rot. This creates a dangerous situation for the roofing contractor when they inspect or repair your roof since the rotted deck could collapse underneath them. Fortunately, roofing contractors know what a rotting deck feels like underfoot and know signs to watch for so they can take safety precautions whether you have an asphalt roof or another type of roofing installed.

When rain leaks in the attic, it can rot the wood supports of your home. Rain can roll between walls, so you don't always realize how bad the damage is until your home suddenly has serious problems that are costly to repair. Prompt roof repairs can prevent these dangerous situations from happening.

2. Leaks Behind Walls Can Interfere With Wiring

Rain may leak straight down and drip through your ceiling, or it might roll behind a wall and drip on wiring. This can be a potentially serious situation that could cause a fire or cause someone in your family to get an electric shock.

If you suspect your home has a roof leak, have the problem checked by a roofer so you understand where the leak is going and what harm it's causing. At the least, you can have a roof tarp put on so your home and family aren't in danger until a roofing contractor can make repairs.

3. Mold Grows On Damp Wood And Insulation

When your roof leaks, wood holds the moisture for a long time. If the wood is always damp, mold can grow. Mold might grow under the shingles on the deck, or it could grow in your attic and even cover the insulation. Some types of mold are associated with medical problems, and if you have allergies to mold, you may have symptoms no matter what type of mold grows.

Once mold grows in your house, you'll have to pay for mold remediation as well as roof repairs, so it's best to have your roof repaired promptly so you can keep mold out of your home.

Residential roofing contractors have busy times of the year and other times when they have a more flexible schedule. It may be difficult to get emergency repairs when a roofer is booked up, so don't wait until your roof leak has turned into a disaster. Instead, check your roof frequently, especially after storms, and call for repairs while they're still minor and not in need of emergency service or extensive and costly work.

To learn more, contact a residential roofing contractor.


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