The Top Seven Ways To Tell If Your Roof Is Leaking

Roof leaks should be taken seriously because they can lead to serious issues, such as mold and structural damage.   In addition, a leaky roof can also increase your utility costs because of wasted energy and wet attic insulation.  Here are the top indicators that a home’s roof is leaking.

Wet Attic Insulation: When a roof is leaky, attic insulation is prone to water damage.  When this happens, the insulation loses much of its R-value.  Wet attic insulation is also prone to mold which poses a health hazard.

Missing Shingles: Missing shingles can be an indicator that a roof is leaking.  Shingles can become detached due to high winds, poor installation techniques, and hail damage.

Curling Shingles: There are many reasons why shingles can curl.  These can include inadequate ventilation, poor installation techniques, and installing new shingles over old ones.  Curling shingles can also mean a roof has reached the end of its lifespan.  Regardless of the cause, curling shingles can easily lead to roof leaks.

Cracked Shingles: When shingles crack, it’s a signal that they have reached the end of their shelf life.  Cracking happens over time due to thermal expansion.  Cracked shingles can allow your roof to leak because they create a pathway for water to reach vulnerable parts of your roof.

Water Stains: Water stains on walls and ceilings are evidence that water is getting into areas of the home it shouldn’t.  It’s important to note that the size of the stain is not indicative of how severe a roof leak is.

Shingle Granules in Gutters: Shingles are manufactured with granules to protect them against the sun’s rays.  They also act as a fire retardant.  If you’re noticing a lot of shingle granules in your home’s gutters and downspouts, it can mean that your roof has reached the end of its lifespan.  Because the granules are no longer in place, a roof is much more likely to leak.

View A Roof Replacement Project: 

Organic Growth on Your Home’s Exterior: Lots of moss, fungi, or mold on your home’s exterior can signal a roof leak.  These species thrive in wet environments which could be caused by a roof leak permitting water to enter a home’s walls.  While these growths can occur in damp dark areas, if they’re happening in sunny areas, a roof leak could be the culprit.