Roof leaks can damage many areas of your home in places you can’t even see. That’s why speaking to the best roof repair company in Northern Virginia is so important. Acting fast can prevent further issues and save you time and money in the long run. While there are countless ways that roof leaks can cause damage to your home, here are the most common.
1- Damaged Ceilings
When water drips through cracked shingles, dislodged flashing, or cracked roofing cement, it will eventually make its way to your interior ceilings. Those ceilings will then become discolored, stained, or even start to grow mildew and mold. If the damage is severe enough, the ceiling may become flimsy, break, and even fall down.
2- Insulation Damage
If your roof shingles are leaking and left unchecked, the insulation in your home can become damaged, which typically happens in the attic. Still, it can also affect insulation in the ceilings. The insulation gets damp and moldy and can even grow black mold. Furthermore, insulation loses its R-value and usually needs to be replaced.
3- Stained Walls
If rainwater is entering your home, it could be running behind or on top of the drywall. The walls may become dull gray over time or grow mildew and mold. The drywall may also begin to break and crumble.
4- Structural Damage
These are the words no homeowner wants to hear. If your roof leaks a large amount of water or for a long time, the wood rafters in your roof, roof decking, attic floor beams, wall studs, and other structural components in your house can weaken. If the leak continues, they could even mold and rot out. If you suspect a leak, it is imperative that you call a licensed and insured roofing contractor in Northern Virginia as soon as possible.
5- Floor Damage
Your floor can suffer major damage from roof leaks. Floor beams, plywood, carpeting, and particularly hardwood flooring can be destroyed if a leak isn’t fixed in time. If your floors continue to get soaked with water, they can become uneven or start to sag in areas. Also, wet floors are slippery and a significant fall hazard.
6- Personal Property Loss
The contents of your home can become damaged from roof leaks. Your artwork on the walls, appliances, electronics, expensive furniture, clothing, and all those belongings stored in the attic or garage, can all be ruined or destroyed by a roof leak.
7- Roof Leaks & Foundation Issues
Most people never consider this, but roof leaks can cause foundation damage. Suppose the water overflows your gutters and runs down the home’s foundation. In that case, it can destroy the fascia board or enter the home, causing many issues with your foundation, including upheaval over time. Broken or clogged gutters may also cause this problem, so keeping them well-maintained is important.
Water damage around windows and doors can also cause gaping window frames or doors that stick shut.
Last considerations
When it comes to roof leaks, time is of the essence. Getting your roof repaired is urgent, and acting fast can prevent extensive damage. If you have a roof leak and need a quick repair, contact an experienced, licensed, and certified Northern Virginia roofing company like A&M Roofing.