9 Warning Signs Of A Leaky Roof in Houston

The roof, although important, is one of the most neglected parts of the house. Most roofs go for months, and even years, before anyone can decide to give them a sweep or even consider servicing them. Neglecting your roof can lead to costly repairs and could also be a reason for major problems to the rest of the house. While scheduling for professional roof servicing and maintenance at least once per year is recommended, you still need to watch out for worrying signs on your roof.  All you need is to climb up and inspect the various parts to ensure they are in the best condition possible. Here are some of the warning signs of a leaky roof to watch out for.

1. Mold and algae:  

This is particularly common in warm and humid climates. The mold and algae start growing when/if the roof is overly exposed to moisture or leaky. 

2. Buckling Shingles:

 This mostly happens when/if the deck of the roof moves. It can also be because of an improperly applied felt.

3. Curling shingles: 

Your shingles may begin to curl due to prolonged exposure to moisture, especially pooling. The shingles may also start to curl due to hot air escaping through the roof. You thus might want to invest in better insulation to prevent this.

4. Damaged/cracked flashing: 

Flashing provides a seal around structures in the roof, primarily chimneys. Damaged, broken, or missing flashing means water and moisture will/is seeping through, hence should be fixed immediately. 

5. Increased heating and cooling bills: 

Although a number of factors might contribute to this, a leaky or damaged roof might be the overall reason. Missing shingles, for example, will allow hot air to escape by forcing the HVAC system to work harder than it should to keep the house warm/cool. 

6. A sagging roof: 

An old or improperly installed roof can be the reason for a sagging roof.  A sagging roof encourages pooling as water cannot drain properly, leading to a major leak. 

7. Missing shingles:

 Broken and missing shingles are another fault to watch out for when inspecting your roof. Although you might know this already, missing shingles will allow moisture and water into the attic and should be fixed immediately. 

8. Exposed nail heads: 

Exposed and missing nails can also lead to and be a reason for a roof leak. Missing nails leave a void/space which allows water may pass through, hence a leak. 

9. Roof/ceiling spots:  

This is one of the most visible signs of a roof leak from the inside of the house. The leaking water streaks down the roof bars to the ceiling and the wall, leaving a stain, and it drips. Pronounced leaks will lead to larger stains on your ceiling and are a reason for concern too. You might also want to watch out for a similar sign around your vents and chimneys as well. 

These are some of the most common signs of a leaking roof. Having these handled professionally by some one e.g. roofing repair houston, can help prevent a disaster from happening, and especially if the leak is caught early. Signing up for annual roof maintenance and servicing might, however, help prevent leaking emergencies too.