A leaking roof can catch you by surprise. Although water dripping from the ceiling of the top level of your home is a clear sign of a roof leak, other signs may be less obvious. Here are 9 signs of a roof leak, which can indicate that it’s time for a new roof.
CEILING STAINS
Any type of water damage resulting in staining on the ceiling, or stains that run down walls are potential signs of a roof leak. In some cases, such as the ground level, these stains may also be a sign of a problem with your plumbing on the second floor.
DAMAGED, MISSING, CURLING ROOF SHINGLES
If you see shingles on your roof that are damaged, curling, or altogether missing, you may have a slow but potentially problematic roof leak. If there are only one or two damaged shingles, you may be able to replace the shingles. However, if many or most of the shingles are damaged, it’s time to get an estimate for a roof replacement.
MOLD GROWING WHERE THE ROOF MEETS OTHER EXTERIOR WALLS
If you find signs of mold such as a fuzzy gray, green, or black appearance growing where your roof meets another wall of your home, water may slowly be leaking through the wall. Likewise, if you find mold growing on any other exterior wall, you should suspect you have a roof leak.
DAMAGED OR CRACKED HOUSINGS AROUND VENTS
If you see cracks in the housings surrounding roof vents, you may have water leaking into your home that you don’t know about. Likewise, if any nails that hold the vent support in place are missing, it’s a sign that water is causing a problem and may be getting into your home.
RUST AROUND THE CHIMNEY
If you have a brick chimney and find rust around the flashing it is a sign of water pooling and potentially leaking into your home.
STAINING NEAR YOUR BATHROOM FAN
If you find stains around the fan in your bathroom it is highly likely you have a roof leak and may need to replace it.
DAMAGED ROOF FLASHING
Roof flashing is the thin metal used in roof crevices, around the chimney, and vent pipes to direct water to the perimeter of the roof. If you find that your flashing is damaged, you should have the roof inspected for a leak.
MOISTURE IN YOUR ATTIC
If you find moisture or mold in your attic on insulation or wood, a leaking roof is almost always to blame.
MUSTY ODOR OF MILDEW OR MOLD
You may suspect a leak if you begin to smell mold or mildew. This doesn’t always mean that you have a leak in your roof. It could be a leak inside your home. But it is best to inspect your roof and find the source of the smell as soon as possible.DO I NEED TO REPLACE MY ROOF TO FIX A ROOF LEAK?
Sometimes a leaking roof can be repaired. For example, if your roof is relatively new, but the plastic around the chimney has a crack, you can likely repair it. However, if you have a leak in your roof and the overall condition of the roof is poor, it is in your best interest to replace the roof.
GET A QUOTE FOR A ROOF REPLACEMENT IN LANE COUNTY
Oregon Roof Guys is a Google top-reviewed roof replacement company serving all of Lane County. If you’re considering replacing your roof, OR Roof Guys is happy to provide a free estimate. Financing is available for asphalt roof replacements. Give us a call, or send us a message today!
