Water damage from a roof leak could cause a lot of damage, some of which could be difficult to detect. It’s obvious when you see water dripping from the ceiling or creating a water puddle on your floor. But what is causing that brown stain on the ceiling? Why is there mold growing on the drywall in the corner? There could be a roof leak issue. What actions should you take when you suspect a roof leak?
Signs of Roof Leaks
The signs of water damage from a roof leak can sometimes be obvious quite, and sometimes not. Look for these signs to see if a roof leak may be happening:
- Bulges in the ceiling
- Discoloration on walls or ceilings
- Water on the floor for no apparent reason
- Water drips or water collecting in a ceiling light fixture
- Wallpaper coming loose
- Damp musty odors
If you spot any of these signs, chances are your roof some type of a leak. There is never any such thing as a tiny roof leak. These leaks never get better on their own, the damage will only steadily increase and the cost of repairs will go up as time goes by.
What's the Worst That Could Happen?
There are many things that could result from a roof leak if it is not fixed promptly:
The Ceiling Could Collapse - sounds drastic but as the drywall absorbs more and more moisture, it could give way, damaging whatever is underneath it. It's bad enough if your furnishings get damaged but what if a family member is in the room when the ceiling falls?
Fire Hazard – In many cases, many of your electrical circuitry is routed through your attic. A leak poses the potential threat of a short circuit and fire.
Mold - mold thrives under moist, dark conditions. If you attic gets wet due to a roof leak, a mold infestation could be the result. Mold can cause several different health issues.
Next Steps
As soon as any water damage is coming from above a ceiling, you should have the problem inspected by Water Mold Fire Restoration. Our emergency teams are available to come to your home and inspect your roof and attic for water damage. They can provide temporary tarping if necessary, to stop additional water inflow and limit any additional damage. Contact us for help at 800-905-0277 or by email at help@watermoldfire.net. We will respond to an emergency any time of the day or night.