Many people believe that a roof leak is one of those things that pose no bigger problem than a wet floor. As North Shore roofing experts who have seen the hidden damage roof leaks can cause, we suggest that a wet floor could actually be the least of your problems. If your roof leaks, there could be all sorts of things going on that need to be fixed up.

For a start, there’s a definite fire risk if you have electrical wiring in the ceiling or attic. Shorted wires pose a real threat, which is why you need to ask us to stop the leak as well as contact an electrician to inspect any damage to the wiring.

The ceiling and attic will also be impacted in other areas. Any items you store there could be water damaged, while affected ceiling paint will darken and ceiling plaster may bubble and expand. The water also will damage paint and plaster on nearby walls, as well as ceiling-mounted lights and fans.  

In the long term, a leaking roof will promote the growth of mould and mildew, which has the potential to spread throughout the home’s structure. Mould and mildew spores can be distributed through heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, and settle on carpets, furniture and even clothing. Black mould is the most common type of mould resulting from ongoing water intrusion, but even non-toxic moulds can damage wood framing, ceiling tiles, and wall and floor coverings. Worst of all, there are major health risks associated with mould and mildew in the atmosphere, and that includes worsening asthma and the increased occurrence of asthma attacks, as well as exacerbating other respiratory and even cardiovascular conditions. If you’re wondering why you and your family are not feeling 100%, mould and mildew caused by an unfixed roof leak could well be the culprit.

Finally,  unchecked water intrusion is not good for the insulation in your ceiling area. Your cellulose or fibreglass insulation can become saturated and will take ages to dry out. When you continue to ignore that roof leak, your insulation will stop doing what it is designed to do, and your home will be too hot in summer and too cold in winter, meaning you’ll pay significantly higher energy bills as you strive to keep your home comfortable.

So, if you think a wet floor is the biggest problem you’ll face when your roof leaks, think again! If you have a roof that constantly lets in water, the damage can be far more significant than that, so for the sake of your property, and the health of your family, contact us and we’ll finally get it sorted.