Water damage is a problem that is very common in the US. Property owners must be aware that water damage can be very destructive if it is severe. Homeowners and commercial property owners must take steps to prevent water damage as much as possible.
Despite the best efforts, water damage may happen. In such situations, a water damage restoration company may be hired. The common causes of water damage include leaking pipes, malfunctioning appliances, HVAC malfunction that causes moisture accumulation, blocked gutters, sewer backup, roof leaks, etc. In this article, Suncoast Contractors Emergency Service Inc. explains how water damage can happen after roof leaks. This company is a full-service contracting company that provides flood damage and water removal services in Delray Beach and other parts of South Florida. Suncoast Contractors Emergency Service Inc. has highly trained technicians that do all steps of the water damage process swiftly and meticulously.
A roof leak can happen because of a poorly installed roof, roof damage due to poor maintenance or wear and tear of an old roof, and due to roof damage caused by wind or storms. Water can first affect the roof and attic and then seep into the house. If roof leakage is disregarded, it can eventually cause more problems, like severe water damage that affects the structure of the home and mold growth.
Signs Of A Roof Leak
Water stains on the ceiling
Drops or water trickling down the walls
Moss growing on the exterior of walls
Debris around the roof
Missing shingles (this means that roof leak will happen later)
Structural damage; rafters, roof decking, attic floor, etc can rot and weaken
Flooring and carpets can get damp and spoil
Bubbling paint
Mold growth
Musty smell
What Water Damage Can Result From A Roof Leak?
1. Damage to Interiors
A leaking roof can eventually cause water damage to any part of the house. When any kind of roof damage is suspected the roof must be inspected. The attic must be checked, and if any risk for water damage is noticed, any valuable or treasured objects stored in the attic can be stored elsewhere. When roof leaks go unattended, water can gain entry into a building and damage furniture, furnishings, electronics, documents, etc.
2. Damage To Wood
Exposure to water can damage the wood. The structures made of wood can begin to rot and weaken. This can cause safety hazards like the collapse of a ceiling or a wall. Damaged wood also attracts pests.
3. Risk For Fire
Water damage can seem insignificant. But if water drops or damp spots are seen on the ceiling, there is a fire hazard, especially in buildings where electrical wiring runs in the ceiling or attic. Water or moisture can cause sparks or fires when in contact with wires. This is dangerous not just for the safety of the building but for the people within.
4. Insulation damage
Water from a roof leak can damage the insulation in attics over time. The home will lose heat and will require more use of central heating. In hot weather, the cooled air from the home is lost easily when the insulation is damaged. This results in higher energy bills.
5. Mold
Roof leaks can cause water to seep into walls and the ceiling. Even when water damage is not evident, it may be present. Prolonged exposure to moisture and damp surfaces provides a favorable environment for mold growth. The presence of mold can make interiors areas that can cause health problems. It can also lead to damage to wooden structures, ceilings, textiles, soft furnishing like carpets, etc.
6. Accidents
Roof leaks can cause water to pool or moisture accumulation that leads to slipping and falls. This is particularly a concern when there are young children or elderly inhabitants in a building.
Homeowners can neglect roofs. Damage to roofs may not always be immediately evident. Sometimes roof leaks may be confined to areas that go undetected. Otherwise, the leak may seem minor. But the water damage that results from a roof leak can be very harmful. It is better to have a water damage restoration company assess the water damage and take steps to limit it, including water removal and mitigation. Suncoast Contractors Emergency Service Inc. has a history that goes back for 3 generations. The company provides general contracting and water damage restoration services in Delray Beach. Suncoast Contractors Emergency Service Inc. can be relied on to handle water damage restoration. They have a wealth of training, knowledge, and experience in handling water damage. Suncoast Contractors Emergency Service Inc. can be contacted by dialing the number (561) 316-3989 or online at https://suncoast24x7.com/contact/.
