5 Signs Your Roof Is Leaking
A good roof will last you around 20 years — but even if your roof is nowhere close to its expiry date yet, it’s important to be aware of signs of potential leaks. Not all leaks are immediately apparent, and unless you pay very close attention, a lot of damage can be done before you notice a problem.
Here’s a look at 5 signs to look out for.
1. Water Stains on Your Ceiling
Unsightly yellow water stains on your ceiling are undoubtedly the most obvious sign that your roof is leaking — but not all ceiling stains are immediately visible to the naked eye. You may have small spots where the paint on your ceiling is beginning to peel off a little, instead, or tiny stains in the corner of a room.
Unless you give your ceiling a good once-over on a regular basis, with a strong flashlight if needed, it may take you quite a while to notice water stains.
2. Mold in the Attic
Mold thrives in humid conditions. These can be caused by a lack of ventilation just as easily as by a leak, and that is why it is crucial to air your attic often. If you diligently ventilate your attic but you still spot mold, there’s a good chance that there is a leak somewhere within your roof.
3. Changes in Your Exterior Walls
Not a lot of people know that changes in your exterior walls can also point to a leak in the roof. If, when you look at your exterior walls, you see moisture buildup at the roof line, there may be a leak. If the walls are bulging outward slightly, there may be a leak. If moss or other vegetation has suddenly started to grow on your exterior wall, near the roof line, there may be a leak within the roof.
Head inside and check if you can spot any water damage where your roof meats your internal wall.
4. Missing and Damaged Shingles
Moderate to severe storms can displace some of your roof shingles, which almost always leads to a leak. After a storm, check the area surrounding your home to see if you can find any shingles lying around. If you can take a good look at the roof, do so.
Shingles may also sustain damage over time, and develop cracks that are impossible to see from the ground. This, too, can lead to a leak within the roof.
5. Ice Dams, Damaged Flashing, and Damaged Vents
Other problems that can quickly lead to a leaky roof include ice dams, damaged or missing flashing around chimneys, and damaged vents. If you can check the condition of your roof, do so. If you can’t, red flags like water stains on your ceiling and mold in your attic should lead you to call a roofing professional.
Not all roof leaks make themselves known with a downpour of water that necessitate the use of a bucket to catch incoming rain! Some roof leaks are sneaky. If you suspect that you have a leak in your roof, you can always call a reputable leak detection company to diagnose the problem.