Roofing Company Leaky Roof Hazards
Leaky roofs are an often overlooked hazard that can cause a number of unexpected problems. Calling a quality roofing company will ensure that water damage will not weaken the structure of your building, causing leaks to occur in other places, it will also lead to mold growth. Mold is not only unsightly and stinky, but it can cause respiratory issues for anyone exposed to it. Keeping a dry house not only improves the quality of life for you and your family but also helps prevent health risks from developing.
Before getting into how to avoid leaky roofs, let’s quickly discuss some ways they occur. First off, roofers should be diligent about checking that there are no gaps between the roofing material and chimneys or vents before applying any sealant. However, even small gaps can cause problems over time, which is why it’s advisable to inspect your roof regularly for any signs of damage.
Another common leak source is ice dams. As their name implies, ice dams form when heat escapes from the house and warm air hits the cold snow at the edge of a building’s roofline, causing it to melt and drip down into the attic space. When these drips freeze overnight, they create thick ridges of ice that block melting snow near the eaves during thaws. This means that water has no place to go but under the roofing material and toward chimneys or vents until it makes its way through an opening and causes water damage.
How do you know if you have an ice dam? Just check your roof during thaws for areas of darkened shingles or tiles. If you find any, it’s time to take action and call a quality roofing company.
Before doing anything else, shut off the water valve supplying your house so there’s no chance of anyone turning on a faucet and accidentally flooding the building. Then call in an ice dam removal professional before making any other repairs. You can do some preparatory work yourself by clearing away snow around your home, adding insulation to the eaves, and sealing fascia boards against insects that could be allowing warm air into your attic space (such as where electric cables enter). Once the ice dam area is cleared, insulated, and sealed it should be safe for you to make any necessary roof repairs yourself or hire a roofer.
While the cause of roof leaks is not always immediately clear, there are some common signs that can help you identify a problem quickly. For example, have you noticed water stains or discoloration on your ceiling? This could be a sign that your ventilation system has been overwhelmed by too much moisture and needs to be repaired or replaced before it does more damage. Or what about a musty smell throughout the building? If so, this may mean mold growth from excess moisture in your walls or ceilings. And if you notice wet insulation, don’t wait to get it replaced—it won’t dry out on its own, and leaving it in place will only lead to mold growth and rot in surrounding materials.
In addition to making sure your home has the right ventilation, it’s a good idea to install a radiant barrier in your attic that reflects heat away from the roofing material. This helps keep ice dams at bay and can also help you save on heating costs when combined with proper insulation.
If you do find yourself with an unexpected problem caused by leaky roofs, don’t panic! Contact a Roofing Company for advice and assistance. While they may not be able to do all of the work for you, they can provide valuable insight into what is causing the damage and what steps need to be taken to resolve the issue before making any permanent repairs. They can also advise you in creating an insurance claim if needed and in keeping your family safe during water extraction and mold remediation.