4 Dangers of a Leaky Roofing System
By Stacy MelleteRoof leaks are one of those things that you should not leave for later; in fact, you should have them addressed by a professional roofing contractor as soon as possible.
In addition to the inconvenience of putting up buckets and mopping the floor every time it rains, you also risk the following dangers.
1. Structural Damage – Roof leaks do not always produce the amount of water that can be caught by a bucket; more often than not, it soaks into the bare wood parts of your attic, like the trusses and roof deck. This can weaken them and cause the roof to sag.
Ceiling stains signify this kind of leak, so it is generally recommended you contact a roof repair expert as soon as possible. Repairs will always cost much less than an unplanned roof replacement, and chances are your insurance provider might not cover the roof replacement cost.
2. Damage to Attic Insulation – Another consequence of a leaking roof is the damage it causes to attic insulation. If the rainwater soaks into the insulation, the latter will start to clump and thus allow heat to pass through. This makes your attic less energy-efficient. Our procedure for roof repairs includes an inspection of the attic’s insulation.
3. Mold and Mildew Growth – Increased moisture levels throughout the house encourage mold and mildew growth. While harmless in small quantities, they can trigger allergies, especially in young children. They also produce a lingering odor, grow on uncovered food and leave stains on fabrics. Adequate ventilation works well as a short-term solution, but fixing a roof leak works for eliminating the source of unwanted indoor moisture.
4. Electrical Shock and Other Injuries – Dripping water could come in contact with an electrical outlet, exposed electrical wiring or a junction box and cause an electrical shock. If the rainwater leak is situated close to any of these areas, shut off the electricity and have your electrician investigate for possible hazards. Puddles can also form that could cause someone to slip and fall.
Avoid all of these hazards by having leaks promptly addressed by a reliable roofing company.
Call Affordable Roofing Systems today at (813) 542-8462 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free roofing estimate. We serve many areas in and near Clearwater and Tampa, FL.