Is My Leaking Roof an Emergency?

When water leaks through a roof, it can travel almost anywhere—including places you may not be able to see immediately. Continuous leaks can cause extreme damage, so it’s important to address them as soon as possible to avoid the need for costly repairs. Even a small leak can lead to structural damage and cause health problems for occupants. 

Structural Damage 

Water doesn’t have to accumulate in puddles to cause damage. As it seeps into wood and insulation, it erodes the structural integrity of your home. Imagine a slow, continuous leak trickling down the framing behind your drywall. There is no place for the moisture to go, so it seeps into the wood and insulation. The wood will rot and weaken, causing the walls to bow. Insulation will clump up, making it less effective and increasing your utility bills.

Fire and Electrical Hazards  

If water is seeping through wood framing and insulation, it’s not going to slip around the electrical wiring in your walls. The combination of degraded insulation and wiring can create an open circuit that could start a fire. There is also danger of electrical shock if anybody were to come into contact with open wiring that’s wet.

Mold and Mildew  

Damp environments are prime breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Growth can be either limited or systemic. Systemic growth results from moisture buildup that extends across a broad area—often in the attic. It can take less than two days for mold to form in the damp environment created by a leaky roof. Mold can cause health problems such as congestion, respiratory problems, and skin and eye irritation. Individuals with compromised immune systems and chronic lung conditions can develop serious infections from mold exposure.

Repair That Leaky Roof 

It’s in your best interest to repair even the smallest leak as soon as you notice it. Paying the cost of a minor repair is the surest way to avoid long-term structural damage and health hazards.

If you have a known leak or suspect there might be a problem, the professionals at Pro-Line are available to help. Don’t let a small leak grow into a huge repair, contact us today!