
Can Roof Leaks Cause Mold?
Any accountable homeowner wants to do everything they can to protect their property.
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One of the best ways to ensure your dwelling is safe all year round is to conduct routine preventative measures. Your roof is perhaps the most vital component of your property, so you must look after it to protect the integrity of your home.
Continue reading below to see how you can protect your house from having a costly and troubling roof leak.
What Are The Main Causes Of Roof Leaks?
Mold and water damage cost American insurance companies roughly $2.5 billion annually. So, what’s causing these leaks in the first place?
Spending Too Much Time on Your Roof
While it may be challenging to know whether a leak results from you being on your roof too much, it’s best not to spend too much time up there. A roof is more fragile than it appears. The materials can break if you step in the wrong place.
If you think there’s a good reason to go on your roof, it’s better to contact a trained professional that can do it safely.
Read more: Is a leaking roof dangerous?
Clogged/Damaged Gutters
The United States gets around 30 inches of rain every year on average. We rely on our gutters to transport rainwater off our roof and away from our property. Clogged or damaged drains can create many issues, such as water damage and mold.
To prevent gutter issues, have a licensed contractor inspect your roof at least once per year. It’s always better to ensure your gutters are clear before the rainy season.
Broken Shingles
Your shingles are the first line of defense against external weather elements. However, extended periods of harsh storms and rain can take a toll on your shingles and cause leaks. It’s wise to look for any damaged shingles during your next roof inspection. Be sure to replace the damaged patches to provide your home with more protection.
Signs of a Leaking Roof
Sometimes, a roof leak is easily noticed when you see a massive water spot on your ceiling. However, it can be tricky to catch a leaking area at other times. Here are a few signs to look out for:
Water Stain
If you look up at your ceiling and see a water puddle with a slight brown color, you’re looking at a roof leak. Some minor leaks may be tricky to spot as they can occur in darker areas of your property. If there’s any sign of discoloration on your ceiling, it’s wise to inspect it thoroughly for a leak or mold.
Dripping Water
Any indication of water dripping from the ceiling or down your walls is usually never a good sign. The drip is typically a result of a roof leak somewhere on your property. If you see dripping water, you may want to contact a roofer to inspect your structure and find the leak’s source.
Organic Growth On Exterior Walls
While most on the side of your home can add a nice rustic touch to your aesthetics, it’s usually a sign that your gutters and downspout aren’t working correctly. An excessive amount of moss usually requires an inspection to see if there’s water building up on your structure.
Roof Leaks And Mold
A roof leak can cause direct or indirect mold growth in your home. If there’s a leak in your attic, condensation will be the leading cause of mold. Puddles or excessive water leaking from the roof can cause the fungi to produce spores and spread throughout your property.
Mold is a problem any homeowner should take seriously. Not only can it damage your home, but it can also cause severe health risks if left untreated. What’s more, the spores can spread incredibly fast. They can start in a small corner of your basement and end up in other rooms in just a few days.
Read more: Fixing a roof leak from the inside
Handle Roof Leaks, Mold, And More!
If you suspect your home is suffering from a roof leak and don’t know what to do, reach out to an expert team of contractors to handle the problem.
Here at All Dry, we have years of experience helping homeowners deal with water damage and mold issues. Our team knows exactly what it takes to restore your property to a perfect livable condition.
Contact our friendly team today for a free estimate!
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With Ben’s knowledge, and visionary leadership, All Dry USA has expanded into a national, full-service property damage restoration company with multiple locations across the United States. Ben holds numerous specialty licenses and certifications in restoration and construction.