The most often reported roofing problem is roof leaks. Strong storms with high winds and aging roofs are often the source of the problem. A roof leak left unrepaired can cause further damage to the existing roof and poses a risk for mold developing inside of the home.

There are less obvious roof problems which allow water to invade homes without being recognized. Small roof leaks often go undiscovered until a larger problem becomes obvious. If small problems can be caught early on, a total roof replacement may be avoided.

How to Avoid Expensive Leaking Roof Repair Costs

The best way to steer clear of problems is to have your roof inspected regularly, especially as your roof ages or after strong storms have blown through your area.

Here are 9 warning signs of a roof leak:

1. Algae and Mold – This occurs most often in warm, humid climates. It is caused by growth of airborne fungi or algae deposit on the roof.
2. Buckling shingles – May be caused by improperly applied roofing felt or movement in the deck of the roof.
3. Curling shingles – May be caused hot air in the attic or by water absorption. If shingles are curling, it does not completely protect the roof from leaks.
4. Damaged flashing – frequently this is caused by poor installation on a new roof or by drying and cracking on an old roof. This can sometimes be repaired without a total roof replacement.
5. Granule loss – This is an indicator of aging shingles. Seeing the black beneath the granules is also a sign of excessive age.
6. Lack of attic ventilation – If there isn’t enough ventilation, the shingles get over-heated. This forces the air conditioning to work harder because hot air is trapped into the attic.
7. Missing shingles – Storms and high winds are often the cause of missing shingles. Could be that the shingles were not installed properly. Missing shingles will allow leaks into the home.
8. Roof rot – When water is being absorbed into the mat of the shingles, rot will be inevitable. This is most often seen with organic-based shingles like Cedar.
9. Roof leaks – When water gets through the roof, sometimes there is evidence on the interior of the home:
   • Increased energy costs – Wet insulation or gaps in the floor decking allows escape of heating and cooling.
   • Visible water – Water dripping is an obvious sign, but water is tricky. Sometimes the water runs along a truss or rafter and drips far from its source. Look for yellow, gray or brown spots on painted ceiling and walls. Bubbles or peeling paint, or wet plaster are also evidence of a leak.
   • Moldy or musty odor – Wet drywall, damp framing or damp metal are all places for mold to grow. A small leak that goes undetected can allow mold to grow. Black mold is difficult to remove and often a professional is needed.  If the source is not repaired, mold will come back quickly.
   • Sagging or stained acoustic ceiling tile – Drop ceilings are common in commercial buildings. Trapped heat or moisture above the drop ceiling can be evidence of a leak or poor roof ventilation.

If you suspect a roof leak, contact Broadway Roofing for your roof inspection. We will provide you with a detailed roof leak repair estimate.