When residential roofing in Huntington Beach, CA, springs a leak, it can be all too easy to want to put off the tasks of maintenance and repair. This is especially true when a leak seems minor. Even if that slow drip seems harmless, however, the reality is that it could be inflicting severe damage to the inner structure of your home. Here are a few tips for knowing when a leak may be serious.
Gauging Damage
Some water spouts are extremely obvious. When you notice a steady drip-drop coming from the center of your ceiling, for example, it is safe to assume you have a major leak on your hands. This indicates water has traveled all the way from the exterior into your walls. Other leaks are less obvious in their extensiveness. A yellow spot on the wall, for instance, may be indicative of anything from minor water retention to major damage.
Mold Concerns
Most all water damage results in the threat of mold, but it can be more sinister in some places than others. If your leak was limited to the exterior of your roof, for example, the presence of mold on one or two shingles may be nothing to worry about. In fact, simple roof repair in Anaheim can resolve these minor issues. If mold growth has reached all the way to your underlayment and into your walls, however, you may have major damage and require a total roof replacement.
Structural Rot
Extensive leaks, water damage, and mold can only lead to one thing: structural rot. Simply put, roofing materials and our exteriors were not designed to harbor water. Moisture and bacteria growth can break down wood and insulation over time, causing your home’s frame to rot. When a leak has reached this point of damage, it can be extremely serious and a threat to your safety.
If you think you have a leak, call your roofing contractor in Newport Beach for repairs.