THE SIGNS OF ROOF WATER INFILTRATION
A recent study by Allstate Canada suggested that almost half of the damage from bad weather such as hail and wind occurs in the form of water infiltration. With an average rainfall of 1100 mm and very frequent warmth in the beautiful province, it is not surprising that our roofs are under severe strain. These bad weather deteriorate roofs from year to year and the risk of water infiltration increases proportionally with the age of the roof.
If you notice one or more of the following signs, it is best to act quickly and seek the help of a specialist. A complete inspection of the roof and attic by a competent professional will allow you to determine exactly what is the cause behind the infiltration of water by the roof and the best ways to remedy it:
PAINT PEELING
Dark circles and other deformations appear when water infiltration affects the interior surfaces of walls subjected to external weathering.
UNUSUAL HIGH HUMIDITY LEVEL
The high humidity in a house is generally caused by human activities such as showers, but also by water infiltration or plumbing leaks.
ICE DAM ON ROOF
This accumulation of ice on the roof occurs in winter when the attic temperature rises above the freezing point and melts the snow.
WORN OR DAMAGE ROOF
The unusual rapid wear of the roof covering is often the sign of a problem in the attic, which promote water infiltration.
WATER STAINS ON THE CEILING
When an infiltration of water through the roof reaches the living area and becomes visible, the situation in the attic is fairly serious.
MOLD IN THE ATTIC
Brownish circles or black or whitish spots often indicate a problem of condensation and excessive humidity but can also be a sign that there is water infiltration.
THE IMPORTANCE OF TAKING ACTION IN THE EVENT OF ROOF WATER INFILTRATION
Water infiltration through the roof can have negative consequences on all the components of a building as well as on the health of its occupants. If there is really water infiltration from the roof and nothing is done to correct the situation, the problems will only get worse over time. Contrary to what we might think, the extent of the damage does not depend on the magnitude of the infiltration. In fact, a small infiltration of water can take longer to be identified and can therefore do more damage inside the walls, damage that can negatively affect the building as its occupants:
CONSEQUENCES OF WATER INFILTRATION ON THE BUILDING
Water infiltration through the roof can quickly degrade the internal elements of the roof, walls and ceilings. This deterioration negatively affects the integrity of the structure and can, in extreme cases, endanger the safety of occupants. It goes without saying that the more the situation degenerates, the more expensive the corrective work becomes.
CONSEQUENCES OF WATER INFILTRATION ON OCCUPANTS
When water infiltration through the roof is not corrected, the health of the occupants may suffer. According to Health Canada, the presence of mold can cause a panoply of symptoms ranging from irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, sinus congestion, headaches, coughing up to the worsening asthma attacks and chronic fatigue.
HAVE THE INSPECTION DONE OF YOUR ROOF AND ATTIC
If you are concerned about water leaking from the roof, it is important to quickly get the services of a specialized building inspector for this type of problem. The main purpose of a roof inspection is to identify the cause (s) behind the water infiltration. This inspection will allow you to obtain a complete portrait of your situation, to confirm the extent of the problem and to obtain personalized recommendations on the corrective work required.
Hiring a building inspector for your roofing problem allows you to obtain an impartial opinion and the appropriate solution for your situation from a professional who has nothing else to sell you. Even the most competent of entrepreneurs risks offering you the solution and the products with which they are most familiar, regardless of the constraints of your reality.
So get the solution to your water infiltration problem the first time with a roof and attic inspection by a specialized building inspector.