If you notice water stains extending across your ceilings or run down your walls, you probably have a leaking roof. However, tracking down the leak can be a tedious endeavor, especially if you don’t know what to look for. It’s best to schedule an inspection by a professional roofer to help identify the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs.
Over time, even small leaks can lead to bigger problems, such as mold growth, rotted framing and sheathing, damaged ceilings, and compromised insulation. Always deal with roof leaks right away to prevent further water damage to your home or extensive roof deterioration which could call for a more expensive roof replacement.
Signs of a Leaking Roof
Here are the common signs your roof is springing leaks and should be fixed sooner than later:
1. Water Stains
A water stain can appear like a large puddle on your ceiling, sometimes ringed with brownish coloration. However, some water stains may not look the same and may be more difficult to spot in darker corners. Others are tiny stains but could be a sign of a much bigger leak.
Regardless of the size or location of the water stain, have a professional roofer take a closer look at your roof to investigate the source of the leak. They should also check for moisture, mold, mildew, and other telltale signs of roof leaks.
2. Water is Dripping
If you suddenly see drips or moisture on the walls, you may have a leak in your roof. Even if the drips seem to go away after some time, get it checked by a professional roofer. You could have an ice dam on your roof due to the freezing and thawing of ice and snow.
More often, water moves under your roof’s shingles and then freezes, resulting in intermittent leaks. The rule of thumb with leaks is if you see moisture, investigate it even if it seems to go away. Unaddressed moisture problems can trigger permanent roof damage.
3. Spots on Walls
On the exterior of your home, regularly take a look under the roofline. If you notice water stains or spots under there, your roof may be leaking at the intersection of the roof and the walls. More often, leaks in these areas point to issues with your flashing. Have your roofer investigate these leaks and fix any issues with your flashing.
4. Walls are Growing Moss
Moss and mold can grow on your exterior walls, especially in areas receiving less sunlight. However, growing moss could also point to problems with your gutters and downspouts. While gutters and downspouts are not made out of your regular roofing materials, they form part and parcel of your roofing system.
They function to move water from your roof and down to the ground, away from your home’s foundation. Leaking gutters or downspouts can cause corrosion or moisture buildup on your exterior walls or siding.
5. See Missing Shingles
Missing shingles, debris in your downspouts, and problems at the seams between shingles and other structures such as skylights and chimneys could point to issues with your roofing material. If your roof is getting patchy, it can get more vulnerable to leaks over time.
Even if you don’t see any leak inside your house, there are high chances you could have a slow leak into your attic or crawl space. Whenever you notice missing shingles or other roof damage, be sure to schedule a professional inspection to discover more about the overall condition of your roof.
6. See Granules in Your Gutters
Granules appearing in your gutters and downspouts, or balding shingles are signs your roofing materials are eroding and require close attention. Shingles with granular loss are usually more susceptible to cracking, curling, and breaking due to weather conditions. As a result, they are more prone to leaks whenever it rains or snows.
Call a Professional Roofer for an Inspection!
When you discover a leak on your roofing system, the best course of action is to call your local roofing contractor to assess the roof and identify the source of the leak. It’s important to fix issues with roof leaks as soon as possible to prevent moisture and dripping water from further deteriorating your roof and your home’s structure.
At DWC Roofing, we have been installing, repairing, and replacing roofs in Central Indiana for decades. Since a roof leak is an urgent matter, take action immediately if you see signs of a roof leak. Our roofing specialists are trained and certified to work on various types of residential roofs. We will help you discover and fix leaks to avoid the cost of major repairs or replacement. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and receive a free estimate!
