Water Damage From a Roof Leak

6/17/2016 (Permalink)

Proper Roof Maintenance Can Prevent Water and Mold Damage

A leaking roof can cause substantial property and water damage in single-family homes and townhomes. An obvious roof leak from sustained heavy rain during a thunderstorm or hurricane is easily recognizable. When water is visibly leaking from the ceiling, the homeowner is forced with the decision of quickly responding. The most common reaction is to place a bucket or container under the leak to collect and contain the water. The problem with an unidentified roof leak is the amount of silent damage that occurs without apparent signs. Water damage occurs for a variety of reasons including, but not limited to, loose shingles, worn out metal flashing surrounding skylights or chimneys, and sudden damage from fallen trees into a house. When shingles and metal flashing have exceeded their lifespan, the materials begin to deteriorate resulting in the probability of slow leaks that often go undetected. An unexpected problem with roof leaks involves the amount of electrical wiring that is present in the attic space. If the water saturates the electrical wiring, there is an increased risk of an electrical fire. The homeowner needs to be aware that a leaking roof can cause a potential fire in addition to water damage.
 
Unidentified slow roof leaks are a serious problem since the extent of water damage that occurs beneath the surface is not recognized until a more visible sign leads to noticeable water. Rain leaks into the home through missing and compromised shingles. The water then saturates the insulation material in the attic. As the insulation repeatedly gets wet, the performance of the insulation declines and mold begins to form. Although wet insulation can dry out, another related problem is the incidence of increased utility bills. When the homeowners attempt to heat or cool their home and the insulation is not working properly, the heating and air conditioning systems must work harder to keep up. The reason for this is because the home will lose heat and cool air. The result is an inefficiency leading to an increased financial expense.
 
Continuous exposure to moisture and the weight of the water will eventually create dips or pockets in the ceiling. Ceiling surfaces that sustain water damage will often display brown or tan spots that alerts the homeowner there is a problem. The severity of the Goodlettsville water damage could lead to a dramatic sign to the homeowners when the ceiling collapses. Water damage can occur for long periods of time without displaying any obvious signs. The presence of water damage may only be recognized when there is an obvious sign, such as water dripping or a ceiling collapse. There is an obvious slip and fall hazard, especially when the homeowner enters the affected room without noticing the water.

Cleaning up this water immediately and drying the floor surface is necessary to help prevent mold. When your home has a roof leak, call on us at SERVPRO of Madison/Goodlettsville at (615) 868-5324.