What Can Happen If You Ignore Your Leaking Roof?

Although roofs are designed to provide foolproof protection against the elements, they don’t last forever. Over time, your roof can fade and bow to pressure imposed by Mother Nature, allowing leaks to spring up. When this happens, you have the option to fix it ASAP or ignore it. So, what happens if you decide to ignore your leaking roof? Read on to find out!

Dangers of Ignoring a Roof Leak

There are several reasons why roofs can leak, such as broken shingles, improperly sealed skylights or valleys, cracked flashing, ice dams, and clogged gutters. Natural disasters such as heavy rains, high winds, and hailstorms may also damage your roof and cause roof leaks. It is always vital to perform periodical roofing inspection and maintenance to prevent roof leaks from occurring.

Here are three reasons why it’s important NOT to ignore a roof leak, however tiny it is:

1: Small Leaks Can Gradually Cause Huge problems

The longer the roof leak is left unattended, the more damage it can cause to your home. Water trickling into your attic will slowly but surely damage your insulation, decking, and ceilings. The longer you hold off, the more damage is done and the more expensive it will be to repair the roof. Sometimes, the damage can be so costly your only option would be to replace the entire roofing system.

2: Mold and Water Damage

If you wait for so long with a roof leak, you increase the chances of mold manifestation. Water leaking into your home usually sits in drywall, ceiling, and insulation, creating a wet environment. Usually, mold thrives in moist, humid environments. Over time, you may have to spend large sums of money clearing the mold and replacing wooden components and carpets, which may have already been eaten away. Besides, mold and mildew pose severe health threats, especially to family members with health issues or underlying lung conditions.

3: Reduces Roof Lifespan

Roof leaks can shorten your roof’s lifespan significantly, causing you to replace it sooner than expected. By fixing small leaks quickly, you can lessen this chance. Fortunately, working with a certified local roofer means you can get a workmanship warranty after roof repair work. This guarantees you several years of service before you’ll need to spend on repairs or replacement.

What To Do To Avoid a Leaky Roof

There are several measures you can take to avoid a leaking roof. First, always schedule a professional roofing inspection at least once every year. A trained roofing contractor has the skills and tools to identify signs of leaks early and make the needed repairs before they escalate into bigger, costlier problems. At Stevens Roofing, we offer professional roof inspections, repair, and replacement in Norfolk, VA, and surrounding areas. If you suspect a roof leak, contact us today to schedule a free inspection!