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The effects of water leak

Roof Leak

There are many different household problems that can be
procrastinated. However, a roof leak repair should take the highest priority on
your list of home maintenance issues. Roofing leaks can develop for a variety
of reasons: improper roof installation, wind or storm damage, and lack of
maintenance. Keep in mind that most roofs are only meant to last 20 to 30
years so it could simply be time to replace your roof. So why is even a small
roof leak so critical for your entire household? Most homeowners think a leaky
roof is just a structural problem, but it can actually pose many more safety and
even health risks. Constant water intrusion will eventually work down from the
attic area to the very foundation of the house, causing plenty of costly damage
on the way. Here are some of the less-obvious ways a roof leak can damage
your home.

Effects on Underlayment

The most minimal damage over the long term is discoloration of the
roofing underlayment, the rafters, beams and possibly the ceiling and the
walls. As the water seeps past the damaged roofing area, it carries tannins
and other chemical residue. These deposits discolor the wood a darker shade
and might look like reddish rust or cola-colored stains on white drywall ceilings
or walls. If the leak remains small, the discoloration might spread and grow
larger over the years, while no other damage might occur.

Effects on Wood

As the roof starts to get wet, the wood will begin to weaken. Water can
also travel beyond the initial area where it is leaking and reach your walls.
After the wood is exposed to water it will most likely dry, get wet, and dry
again. This happening over and over can start to reduce the integrity of the
wood.

Effects on Insulation and Electrical Fire

When a leaking roof allows water to enter the attic it first hits the
insulation and, over time, you will notice an increase in your energy bills. In
addition, this water is often in contact with electrical units. If the insulation of
any of the electric wires has been damaged by rodents, and are bare, this
could lead to an electrical fire. Needless to say, an electrical fire can actually
burn down the entire house.
If your electrical wiring is present in an attic or ceiling, a leaky roof
could pose a fire threat from shorted wires. It is highly recommended to turn
off electricity to the area that’s affected and have an electrician examine it.

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