5 Signs of Water Damage from Leaking Roof

Prevent and resolve your roof's water leaks by calling Steam Smart Pro at (520) 416-4308! 

Homeowners can sometimes overlook their roofs unless they spot significant issues, like a severe leak. Unfortunately, water damage from leaking roofs can happen even if you don't have a massive leak.

Even a minor leaky roof can lead to structural damage and cause mold growth. A water leak will only grow when left untreated, escalating the problem. 

Knowing these five signs of a leaking roof can help homeowners prevent expensive repairs or roof replacements. For the best results, homeowners should call Tucson's water damage restoration experts. 

1. Your Ceiling Has Water Spots 

You may have a leak if you notice water spots on your roof's ceiling. Unfortunately, pinpointing the leak's source can be difficult, with slow leaks being harder to track than more significant leaks. Slow leaks will travel from their initial source. 

A roof inspector will have the knowledge and expertise to find the leak. After identifying the source, they will offer the best solution for resolving the problem. 

2. Your Exterior Walls Have Water Spots 

Water spots on your exterior walls may also reveal possible water damage from leaking roofs. This problem indicates a damaged step flashing, the area where your roof links to your walls. 

Over time, step flashing can rust or become loose, allowing rainwater to collect. This rainwater leaves water spots, and you'll want to replace your step flashing. Again, it's best to leave this replacement job to a roofing professional. 

3. Gutters Filled With Granules 

Asphalt roofing shingles come with an exterior coating known as granules. These granules provide excellent protection to your roof but can start coming off due to nasty storms or aging. You may need to replace your granules if your roof loses a lot of shingles. 

You can visibly see shingle damage by spotting bald or smooth spots on your roof, alongside granules collecting in your gutters. 

However, before replacing your shingles, you'll want to check your manufacturer's warranty. You'll also need a roofing professional to inspect your roof and determine how much shingle damage you have and how pressing the need is to replace them. 

4. Cracking Shingles 

Besides nasty storms ripping granules off your shingles, other shingle issues exist. For example, after losing granules, your shingles become targets of UV rays, which can turn them brittle. UV radiation targets the shingles from the inside out, triggering blistering and cracking. 

These shingles become unsightly to look at and leave your roof and home susceptible to water damage. Enough water damage can force homeowners to undergo massive repairs or a total roof replacement.

5. Your Wooden Deck Feels Spongy or Rotten 

Soft sponge-like wood decking signals you have long-lasting or extensive water damage. Water damage will cause your deck to rot and become prone to future leaks. It's easy to spot water damage when walking on your deck. 

It's important to note, however, walking on a spongy or rotten deck is unsafe. Avoid walking on a water-damaged deck until you can carry out the proper repairs. 

What Are the Main Causes of Roof Water Leaks and Damage

Besides these five main signs of water damage from leaking roofs, homeowners need to know the leading causes of roof leaks: 

Exterior Causes

Some exterior causes of roof leaks and water damage include: 

• Cracked or broken shingles 
• Clogged gutters 
• A damaged chimney 
• Improperly sealed valleys 
• Damaged flashing 
• Cracked vent booting 
• Buildups from ice dams 

Interior Causes 

The following interior problems can lead to water damage: 

• Mold, mildew, or water stains forming around your chimney 
• Improperly installing skylights 
• Skylights with rotten wood or peeling paint 
• An attic with excessive condensation, which often leads to mold growth

Leaking Roof and Water Damage FAQs

Let's explore some FAQs regarding leaky roofs and water damage: 

Is a Leaking Roof a Fire Hazard? 

If you have shorted wires in your ceiling or attic, your roof leaking can become a fire hazard. When checking your roof leaks, you'll also want to check for any holes in your insulation. These issues can result in a deadly fire if left untreated. 

Can a Leaky Roof Result in Mold? 

A leaky roof can trigger mold growth, leading to structural damage. One clear indication of mold growth following a leak includes if you have black water dripping from your ceiling. Homeowners that ignore water leaks for a long time generally find themselves more likely to have to deal with mold. 

If you have mold, you'll want to contact a mold remediation specialist alongside a roofing contractor. 

Why Do Roofs Leak When It Rains? 

Most homeowners choose to install asphalt shingle roofs for their cost-effectiveness. With proper maintenance, these roofs can last between 15 and 30 years. However, these shingles will start to degrade as time goes on. 

If your roof starts leaking after heavy rain, this often indicates you need to replace your shingles. 

Why Is My Roof Leaking When the Wind Blows? 

A roof leaking during blowing wind generally signals that water pressure is stronger than your roof's support system. As a result, some homeowners build their roofs to redirect moisture vertically. 

Wind blowing rain horizontally can cause rainwater to get stuck between your shingles' dry parts. This process may lead to rotting. 

Do Insurance Companies Cover Roof Leaks and Water Damage? 

Most homeowners' insurance policies will cover water damage from leaky roofs. However, some stipulations do exist. 

Most of the time, your insurance company will only cover water leaks or damage if a sudden event causes them. For example, a heavy storm or a fallen tree. Many policies generally won't cover water damage caused by a poorly maintained roof. 

Call Steam Smart Pro Today 

Homeowners should resolve a roof leak the moment they spot it. Doing so can prevent costly repairs or replacements. However, sometimes water damage occurs outside your control, so you should call Steam Smart Pro. 

Tucson, AZ, businesses and homeowners can contact our team today to discover our flood water removal services. Call (520) 416-4308 to deal with water damage from leaking roofs! 

Author Bio:

Eric Bullard

The owner of Steam Smart Pro in Tucson, AZ, brings over 20 years of invaluable experience in the field of carpet, tile, and air duct cleaning. With a strong dedication to quality and a deep understanding of effective cleaning techniques, Eric consistently delivers outstanding results to his satisfied residential and commercial clients.