Is Your Roof Leaking? Signs to Look Out For

The roof protects your home from rain, snow, and wind. However, the roof may start to wear over time, perhaps due to poor-quality material or prolonged exposure to harsh elements. Among the obvious signs that your roof is nearly giving up are leaks.



While some signs of a roof leak are not easily visible to the naked eye, there are several tell-tale signs you can look out for.

Mold Growth

Moisture creates a thriving environment for mold or mildew growth, so if the roof leaks, you may spot mold on the walls and ceiling. Sometimes, depending on the extent of the leaks, water may flow to the floor and cause mold growth there.

Mold can quickly eat away at the roofing materials, such as wood and insulation, which compromises the integrity of your building. Mold is also a health hazard and puts your loved ones at risk of respiratory illnesses.

Note that moisture and mold on the floor may sometimes get in through the windows. So don't automatically assume that a leaky roof is a culprit; instead, let an expert inspect the roof for confirmation.

Stained Walls and Ceiling

Yellow or brown water stains on the walls and ceiling are signs of a leaky roof. These marks mostly appear in the middle of the ceiling or at the top of a wall. In some instances, they may appear as streaks around windows and doors.

If the patches are darker, that could indicate mold growth, which is a result of moisture. Additionally, sometimes stains may indicate dirt, so you can never be sure if you have a leaky roof until you invest in an inspection.

Missing Shingles

This sign is probably the most obvious indicator of a leaky roof. If the shingles are compromised, moisture will quickly find its way inside the house to cause damage.

Pay attention to signs of cracked, missing, or warped shingles on your roof. If you spot any of these, get a roofer to inspect the roof immediately and replace any damaged materials.

Faulty Plumbing Vent Boots

The pipe sticking out of your roof is the plumbing vent and must be securely sealed against the roof to prevent water from entering your property. Over time, the plumbing vent may crack or rot, creating room for water from outside to flow down the base of the pipe into your house.

Pay attention to the condition of the vent boots and confirm if the issue is due to loose nails. If everything with the vent boot looks good, then replace the nails and seal them with a sealant to prevent oxidation.

Audible Drips

If you notice dripping sounds from the ceiling, a leaky roof is the most likely cause. First, confirm that the sounds are not coming from the shower or faucet. Then check the attic for signs of damage to establish if water is coming from the roof.

A leaky roof compromises your home's integrity and puts your loved ones at risk. Therefore, be vigilant, look for the above signs of leaks, and act quickly to rectify the problem. The best way to maintain your roof's efficiency is to consult a reliable roofing contractor who will inspect, diagnose, and repair the issues early before they escalate into extensive repairs. The expert will also discover any other underlying problems and advise you on how best to maintain your roof.

You can trust us at SL Construction for all your roofing needs in Fort Wayne. We offer comprehensive roofing services, from installation to repairs and replacement. So check our website or contact us to discuss how we can restore your roof to its former glory.