Welcome to Family Roofing

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At Family Roofing, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

 

WARNING SIGNS OF ROOF LEAKS

Your roof may be telling you something.  There are various reasons why roofs leak.  Below are warning signs that present reasons for concern during the life of a roof.  There are also many less obvious items which allow water intrusion which are frequently missed.  Small roof leaks cause rotten wood and even mold and mildew just like large leaks do.  However, small roof leaks are frequently not discovered, by the untrained eye, until they are large enough to become obvious.  By then complete roof replacement is frequently necessary.  The best way to be certain your roof is in tip-top shape is to have it regularly inspected by an experienced roofing professional.

Discoloration

Before water starts dripping from your ceiling, it will be absorbed into it.  Absorbing significant amounts of water will lead to discoloration of your ceiling.  To see if there are water spots on your ceiling, take a flashlight and examine it closely.  The water damage will look similar to coffee stains.  When checking for water spots, do not forget to check inside of closets, or in the basement.  Also, always check the ceiling above tubs or appliances, as there are often pipes running there that go up to the roof.

Damage to Wood and Drywall

If leaking continues, it can move from affecting the ceiling to affecting the drywall in your home.  This can threaten the structural integrity of your walls.  Check the seams between the walls and your ceiling to look for signs of warping.  You may even see sections that are beginning to crumble into pieces or dust. In severe cases, full sections of drywall can even collapse.  Additionally, if you have wood beams contributing to the structure of your home, you may notice damage to these.  Water damage can cause the wooden beams, studs, and joists to rot. If this damage persists, the wood will need to be replaced.

Mold and Mildew

When water leaks into your home, it can become trapped in confined spaces.  As the water builds up, it creates humidity. In this environment, mold and mildew begin to grow.  If mold is growing in your home, it can cause respiratory problems for you and your family.  To check for mold, look for black or dark patches that resemble a stain.  Make sure to check damp areas like the attic or the basement to make sure that mold is not there.

Electrical Problems

If leaking persists for long enough, it can lead to damage to your home’s electrical system.  Depending on the location of the leak, the water might affect the wires themselves or your electrical circuit box.  Most of your home’s wires are made of copper, and water degrades copper over time.  If this damage persists, this can cause wires to break or short out. If the leaking water affects your home’s breaker box, this can throw off the electrical system for your entire home.

You will have many obligations if you own a house.  You must take care of every aspect of your property.  Maintenance can help improve the value of your home.  However, keep in mind that your roof may develop some problems over time, which can negatively affect your house.  Any issue with your roof is usually a cause of concern that you need to identify and take care of before major problems ensue.

Water In Your Home

Dripping water in your home is one of the most noticeable signs that your roof is leaking.  Put a bucket in the right spot to catch the dripping water.  That said, you’re going to need to call a professional to help to fix the leak, and you’ll want to do it quickly.

A Rotting, Wet Roof

There is a problem the moment you start experiencing a rotting and wet roof.  This sign starts with unattractive black stains appearing on your roof.   To fix this, you may need to replace the entire roof.  Doing so will improve the appearance of your property.  Although it could cost you additional money, you need to call a professional to immediately repair a rotting roof structure.

Debris In The Gutters

Your gutters can help maintain the value of your house.  They are especially good at keeping water away from your house.  There could be a problem when you start to see debris in your gutters, though.  If this happens, you might have a leaking roof.

Cracking Shingles

Keep an eye out for cracks if your roof is made with asphalt shingles.  Your shingles will begin to separate when too much water is getting through.  To avoid further damage, replace cracked shingles.

Damaged Flashing

Improper roof installation is typically the cause of damaged flashing.  To avoid water damage when there is snow or rain, do not leave this issue unchecked. Have a professional inspect your flashing and help solve the problem.

What Are The Steps In Repairing A Leaking Roof?

Over time, the best of roofs can develop problems.  Fortunately, problems like a roof leak can easily be fixed.  If you use shingle roofs, old ones can simply be replaced, or repairs can be made to damaged shingles.  Following these few steps will make the repair process easier…

Find The Roof Leak

The most evident sign of a leaking roof are water stains on the walls and ceilings.  Take note of the spot(s) and look at your roof to find the source. Check if any shingle is missing, cracked, or curled. Leaks can also occur in areas where flashing and/or caulking have been compromised.

Secure Curled Shingles

Shingles that are curled back can be resecured by brushing on a coating of asphalt roofing cement.  To ensure that the corners and edges are well-secured, a good amount of roofing cement should be applied to the shingle’s underside and then the repairer should press firmly to set it.

Replace Missing Or Damaged Shingles

It may be an easy fix if shingles are rotten, missing, or cracked.  However, you must have the actual replacement shingles for this to be an easy task. To remove a shingle that is damaged, a repairer needs to raise the edges of the surrounding shingles and use a pry bar to remove nails.  The shingle should slide out once nails are removed.

Fix The Flashing

Leaks that are caused by damaged metal flashing around the dormers, chimneys, and vents can be repaired by simply resealing the joints.  This can be done with a caulk gun that is filled with roofing cement.  It’s a good idea to have a fresh new coat applied if you see a previously sealed joint that is damaged.

Conclusion

Always be on the lookout for roof leaks.  The quicker you catch them, the less damage they can do to your beloved house.  If you do find leaks or issues, have a professional inspect your roof and make repairs and/or replace what needs to be replaced.