Roof leaks and why it’s important to fix them fast.
It is important to fix roof leaks quickly. Leaks that are not addressed immediately can have a costly effect in the short and long term. Most small roof leaks can be addressed by a homeowner before they become so large that a professional needs to be called. There can be a multitude of reasons for a roof to fail, overflowing gutters, missing shingles, gaps in seams around vent pipes or chimneys, or even not having enough attic ventilation causing a buildup of condensation.
It is important to understand that a leak can be misleading. Just because your results appear in one area of your inner ceiling doesn’t mean the problem is directly above it. Before leaking to show that telltale sign of water damage on your roof, water and condensation can travel along roof/ceiling joists, gas or water pipes, even electrical lines.
Roof leaks that are not quickly repaired can become costly messes and even lead to health risks. Wherever there is an area of warm, moist air, there is that potential for mold and bacteria growth. Many insects, including carpenter ants, also seek out areas of rotting wood. Health hazards aside, the cost of replacing drywall, insulation and, in some cases, flooring, are all good reasons to spot where potential roof leaks are coming from and remodel and repair them quickly. If you can’t spot the roof leak in a short time, many reputable roofers have experience tracking down these elusive leaks.
When looking for roofers who can diagnose your problem, use the Internet to find honest and competent companies. Use Google or Kudzu.com to review roofing companies to determine their past history. Since a roof leak can potentially be the start of a very expensive housing project, it makes a lot of sense to be careful when choosing who to work with. Always ask if the company requires a payment for quotes, as not all companies offer free quotes.
Once the problem has been fixed, it’s important to be proactive about your roof and its maintenance. Depending on the climate and what part of the country you live in, it may be to your advantage to have your roof inspected every 2-3 years for potential problems with shingles, pipe covers, vents, and other fixtures. This type of maintenance will ensure your roof stays in good shape and prevent future leaks.
