5 Warning Signs of a Leaky Roof

5 Warning Signs of a Leaky Roof

Have you noticed water damage on your ceiling? If you see this or any of these other signs, chances are you have a leaky roof that needs to be attended to.

Most people notice that they have a roof leak when they see water damage or spots on their ceiling. However, if it takes ceiling damage for you to notice the leaky roof, chances are the damages are significant. By the time water makes its way to your ceiling, its already gone through many layers of shingles, wood, and other materials.

To keep your roof in tip-top shape, you should be aware of the signs of leaky roofs (other than just your wet ceiling). Read on for 5 warning signs that you might have a leak.

Water, Water, Everywhere

Water in the wrong places can cause a ton of damage and require extensive repairs that aren’t cheap. If you keep your eyes open for these warning signs, you might be able to get to the leak early, before it’s caused significant damage to your home.

Performing regular exterior and interior visual inspections of your roof and walls is a great way to make sure that you don’t have any damage that could lead to leaking. If you see any of these signs, it might be time to call a professional roofing company to assess the damage.

1. Shingle Damage

Any kind of shingle damage, such as loose or missing shingles, granule loss, broken or curling shingles or buckling shingles can indicate damage. This might happen over time or as a result of a storm. Either way, you will want to get it addressed before water starts entering the interior of your home.

2. Algae and Mold

Algae and mold growing on your roof occur most often in areas with hot and humid climates, like the south. Seeing them inside your house can also indicate a leak.

It’s important to address it as soon as possible because mold in your home can have significant negative impacts on your health.

3. Debris in Your Downspouts

Any type of debris in your downspouts could be shingles or other materials from your roof.

If you notice anything out of the ordinary in your downspouts, you should do a visual inspection of your roof (if you can do so safely) or call a professional to determine if there is any damage.

4. Water Spots

Water spots on the exterior of your home can also indicate a leaky roof. Take a look at the underside of your roof line. If there are water spots there, you may have issues with your flashing where the walls meet.

Water spots on interior walls and ceilings are also a telltale sign that your roof is leaking. If you have an attic or crawlspace, check it out regularly to make sure there are no leaks.

Mold in these areas is another indication that you might have a leaky roof.

5. Loose or Damaged Flashing

Flashing is strips of metal or other materials that are used to surround leak-prone areas on your roof, like your chimney, vents, pipes, or skylights. it can crack and chip over time, leaving your roof susceptible to leaks.

It’s easy to replace and not a huge expense, so if you notice leaks around these areas, get it taken care of before the damage grows and the repair becomes really pricey.

Check That Leaky Roof

Now that you know what to look for, take some time this weekend to do an interior and exterior visual examination of your roof. If you see anything that looks suspicious, call a roofing professional.

We are happy to come out and take a look and provide you with a free quote for repairs.