The Signs of a Roof Link Can Be More Subtle Than You Think
When asked to think of signs of a roof leak, most homeowners would probably say “water dripping from the ceiling.” And while this is a telltale sign that something may be seriously wrong with your roof (if not your plumbing), it takes a long time for a roof leak to become so serious that rainwater quite literally falls on your head.
At Skyline Contracting, we’ve encountered countless roof leaks that could have been addressed with a quick roof repair if only homeowners knew the subtler and earlier signs of water problems. But by the time they noticed, Georgia’s heavy spring rains left them with major issues. So to help equip homeowners with the information they need, here are some less common signs of a roof leak that you should know about.
Water Stains in Closets
Aside from dripping water, water stains are another common sign of a roof leak that homeowners know to look for. Typically, the advice is to look for a stain on your ceiling. However, water does not always take the same route through every home, as this will depend on the location of your leak.
A good example is a roof leak over a closet in your home. As an isolated, closed-off space, it’s easy to miss a damp spot in your closet—we’ve even seen cases where closet water stains were missed for years.
If you suspect a roof leak, don’t just look at the ceiling in a few rooms. Check your whole home for evidence, as it may be hiding where you least expect it.
Swelling of Sheet Rock or Base Wall
If your roof is leaking, water will flow downward. This means it will likely collect somewhere around the base of your home. While water stains on your ceiling are important to look for, it’s also a good idea to check for signs of accumulating water in these lower-lying areas as well.
One example is if you notice swelling of sheet rock or your home’s base walls. This can happen as water seeps into your home and eventually reaches these foundational areas. This is an especially major warning sign if you notice swelling on base walls that are more interior, as a roof leak is one of the more likely sources of water.
Follow Your Nose
Signs of a roof leak are often visual, but not always. Long before water seeps through your home and stains your ceiling, it will reach your attic. Excess moisture in your attic will not go unnoticed for long, as it tends to result in foul or off-putting odors.
Your attic is an excellent place to identify issues with your roof, so it’s good to check periodically. If you notice a musty or moldy smell, or see areas of dampness, mold, or mildew, this is a clear sign of a roof leak (or attic ventilation problems).
Water on Floor
While you might expect water dripping from your ceiling, rainwater from a leaking roof may not always follow such a visible path through your home. Once more, it’s a good idea to check lower-lying areas for signs of moisture, and that includes your floors.
If you have a basement, puddles of water may not be a result of foundation issues, but stem from problems with the roof over your head. The same goes for wet spots on carpeting, in your kitchen, or elsewhere in your home. If you notice water on your floors, don’t rule out a roof leak.
Spot Signs of a Roof Leak? Schedule an Inspection Right Away!
As a homeowner, few things are more worrisome than a roof leak—and as roofers, we couldn’t agree more. Roof leaks are a major cause of premature roof replacements, as water seeps through the outer surface of your roof and begins to damage more foundational parts of your roof, along with the rest of your home.
If you spot signs of moisture with no clear explanation, it could indicate a roof leak. The best way to determine this for sure, however, is to contact the professional Gainesville roofers at Skyline Contracting. Our team will complete a full inspection and get to the bottom of any moisture issues you may be facing. Book your inspection today!
