Moss Roofing Blog Ignoring a Leaky Roof: A Recipe for Disaster and Costly Consequences

Ignoring a Leaky Roof: A Recipe for Disaster and Costly Consequences

A leaky roof can frustrate homeowners, leaving them unsure of what to do. You may not know what steps to take if you’ve never dealt with this issue. Do you call a handyman, a repairman, or a roofing contractor? Can you fix it yourself? Are there other available options?

If you choose to hire a professional, finding a reputable one might seem daunting. What if the pro doesn’t know how to troubleshoot this issue and deliver a permanent solution? What if the pro charges an arm and a leg for a “simple” fix? Will the pro be responsive and proactive?

3 Common Risks Of Not Timely Repairing A Roof Leak

1. Elevated Chance Of Mold Formation

A roof leak opens the door to one of the most dangerous enemies to the health and well-being of a home’s occupants – mold. When moisture intrudes into a house, it may enter areas with poor ventilation and a lack of lighting. For example, attic and crawl spaces may provide the perfect environment for mold growth.

Unfortunately, because these portions of the home are often inaccessible or have limited visibility, a homeowner may not know about the mold problem for weeks, months, or even years. Once mold is discovered, it may result in a tremendously costly remediation process. In extreme cases, the home may need leveling.

water stains on a ceiling and wall from a leaky roof

2. Greater Likelihood The Roof’s Lifespan Shortens

An architectural asphalt shingle roof typically lasts 20-30 years before requiring replacement. If the roof is well-maintained and does not experience substantial weathering, it may even provide additional years of service. However, if a home experiences a roof leak and no immediate repair occurs, the roof’s lifespan is more likely to be shortened.

How the homeowner responds after discovering a roof leak plays a significant role in the existing roof’s longevity. For instance, if a roof leak remains undetected or unaddressed, problems such as wood rot and degradation of roofing materials can weaken the roofing system, requiring replacement sooner rather than later.

3. Increased Probability Of Property Damage

A woman is holding a bucket inside a house catching water from a leaky roof.

Not timely addressing or ignoring a roof leak will worsen the problem. Many homeowners delay resolving a known roofing issue because they are ignorant, while other homeowners figure that time is not necessarily of the essence. Some are concerned that a professional will not handle it responsibly or affordably. Thus, they think they can wait a few extra weeks, months, or years.

The difficulty with taking a slow and cautious approach to a known roof leak is that problems multiply quickly. A roof leak is more than water entering the home and pooling in a particular area, such as above the ceiling. Excess moisture can damage structural components, underlying roof layers, insulation, electrical wiring, walls, ceilings, and almost any area of your home.

Hiring A Reputable Roofing Professional To Fix A Roof Leak

As a homeowner, you have choices. If you reside in Greater Indianapolis, Moss Roofing is the trusted and preferred roofing professional. We help you identify roof leaks and provide permanent solutions that ensure the longevity and well-being of your existing roof.

Contact us today to learn more about our roofing services or to schedule an appointment.

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