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Health Concerns Mold

Mold and mildew can lead to serious health issues, especially for those
with high sensitivity, including nasal congestion, rhinitis, inflammations and
asthma, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Mold spores
continue to be produced once it's present and will lead to allergic reactions,
asthmatic symptoms, and more serious health problems.
In places where leaking water becomes trapped in a confined space,
for example, under floors or between covered wall studs, the humidity won't
dissipate and mold or mildew growth may occur. Mold and mildew may cause
respiratory distress and it also has the potential to weaken the framework in
the area of the leak. Black or dark patches that resemble a stain are the first
signs of mold or mildew infestation, and anytime these stains are found, the
cause must be located.

Slip and Fall Hazard

A severely leaking roof can cause water to puddle on the floor. This
may not seem like a huge risk, but if you have an active family, and especially
if you have children who like to run, you need to get that water mopped up to
prevent human spills.

Ceiling and Drywall Damage

The most obvious consequence of a leaking roof is the damaged
rafters, ceiling joists, wall framing and even fascia boards and exterior trim
can become victims of water intrusion. Chronic roof leaks lead to wood
deterioration and weakened, rotten roof framing causes serious problems that
require assistance from a professional contractor. You can also face
expensive wood framing repairs if water leaks down into ceiling joists and
walls. Spongy and weak water-damaged wood can end in peeling paint,
damaged ceilings, and buckled wall coverings. Structural damage is inevitable
if there is a serious and long-standing roof leak. That means that a good
chunk of deteriorated ceiling could give way and fall, damaging anything
underneath. You would surely hate to find your laptop or television under a
collapsed ceiling, but it would be even worse if you were under it.

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