Roofs are crucial parts of every house. One of the most common complains that homeowners have when it comes to their roofs in the presence of leaks. Repairing a leak as soon as you notice one affecting your roof is vital if you want to avoid unnecessary complications in other parts of the property.
If left unchecked, roof leaks can progress into some serious issues. Here is a look at 4 of the most serious damages that can occur in your home from leaking roofs.
- Wall damage
Dry is the plaster-like substance used to finish walls and roofs. In the presence of dampness or water, this drywall starts to crumble and fall off. Leaks can travel from your roof to your walls in a matter of days. Without proper precautions, you will soon notice the drywall peeling off from your walls, exposing the structure underneath.
Determine the most common leak points on your roof, such as tears, cuts, holes, seams and more. Keep checking these regions for leaks after regular intervals. Take appropriate steps to rectify leaks as soon as you find one to minimise the risk of wall damage.
- Decaying wood
Water is wood’s worst enemy. Wooden structures in your home’s construction can start to rot if they remain drenched in water for days or weeks. Over time, the decaying wood affects the structural integrity of your house. Additionally, moisture and wood give rise to mould infestation, which can lead to adverse effects on the respiratory systems of people living in such a house.
Therefore, plugging the leak is essential when a wooden structure is present in or near the roof. Roof repair is considered incomplete unless the contractor can deal with any additional leaks and remove the mould presence inside the home.
- Accidental threats
Roof water leakage can pose a great risk to you and your family members. If the water comes into contact with exposed electrical wires or outlets, they can lead to a short circuit, resulting in a fire. Similarly, if you touch a wet wire, you may experience an electric shock.
Besides the electrical threats, a person can slip and fall due to the water from a roof leak. Such falls can result in serious bodily injuries. Repair leaks soon to avoid such accidents. Clean water from floors and mark areas where water accumulates, so that family members can avoid mishaps.
- Health risk
Leaks can promote the growth of mould and mildew inside your home. Over time, these can lead to several respiratory disorders in family members, such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia and even cause allergies. Breathing in mould weakens the immune system, which in turn can cause these symptoms. Therefore, leaks are not only bad for the home but can be deadly for the people inside as well.
Therefore, roof leaks are serious issues that require your immediate attention. Proper maintenance of the roof can reduce the risk of leaks. Regular inspections are also necessary to rule out the presence of any leaks on roofs. If you need a roof inspection, contact the friendly team at The Slate Roofing Company today for a free consultation.
