Signs of roof leaks and how it can damage your overall home structure

Roofs form an integral part of your home and it's important to maintain it. Leaky roofs can damage the entire structure of your home. It’s best to curb roof leaks when you notice the initial signs of water accumulation or leaks in any part of the roof, whether its on the surface, fascia, gutters, valleys or anywhere else. 

At Melbourne Quality Roofing, during our regular inspection, we ensure your roof is in its optimal condition and in case of water leaks or accumulation, we take preventive steps before it causes major damage. When you hire us for our roof restoration, roof repairs, and roof painting solutions in Melbourne, we will inspect your roof using industry-standard tools and technology. We provide you with an obligation-free quote for all works. 

Signs to look out for to identify roof leaks and ways to prevent it

Below are the common signs of roof leaks that indicate immediate leaking roof repairs. 

• Ceiling Stains 

If you notice water stains on the ceiling of your house, it's time to get your roof inspected. Such stains already indicate signs of severe roof damage as water has started to penetrate the house structure. Even in a short time duration, even small leaks can lead to big problems such as mould, rotted framing, and damaged or, to some extent, destroyed insulation and attics. 

• Damaged roofing material, especially in the case of tiled roof

Water accumulation or penetration often leads to severe roof damage, which may require roof repairs. In the case of metal or Colorbond roofs, there are lower chances of water penetration in the roofing material, but water will flow in different directions and damage your home's structure.   

• Damaged Plumbing Vent Boots

Plumbing vent boots come in different materials, like plastic or metal. When you look for water leaks, check if the plastic base has any cracks or if the metal base has any broken seams. Also, inspect the rubber boot around the pipe, which, if rotted or torn, will allow water to seep in. If you notice any of the above signs, replace it with a new vent boot. 

• Roof vent issues

Check for cracked plastic roof vents or broken metal roof vents. It requires immediate attention and might need immediate replacement of damaged vents. Also, look for missing screws or nails at the base’s bottom edge.  

• Mould on the junction of the roof and exterior wall

Flashings are installed where the roof's edge meets a sidewall. Without it, water from the roof can run down the wall and maybe even get into it. This is especially bad if there's a door or window underneath because water could leak behind the trim. Even if you don't see it immediately, the wood beneath could damage and rot over time.

• Water dripping inside through interior and exterior walls

If you see water dripping from your ceiling, it's a clear sign of a leaky roof. In such cases, it means an immediate need for roof repairs for leaks as the extent of damage in such cases is severe. There are no DIY solutions in such cases. Maximum homeowners can do is safeguard the home with the help of sheets over the roof to prevent further damage till they get help from professional roofers. 

• Mould and Algae Growth

When the weather is warm and humid, especially in Melbourne, where such a climate is common, you might notice mould or algae growing on your roof. This happens when airborne algae or fungi land on the roof and start to grow. While it may not affect the whole roof, it could signal possible water leaks. Homeowners should regularly inspect the roof from ground level and ensure there is no formation of mould, algae, fungus or moss. 

How will regular roof inspection help in preventing a leaking roof?

Roof inspections on a timely basis ensure your roof’s optimal state in the long run by preventing expensive roof restoration and roof repairs in Melbourne. Usually, during inspections, roofers inspect your roof for the following:

1. Overall roof’s condition
2. Condition of flashings, vents, gutters and fascia
3. Formation of mould, algae, moss or fungus
4. Broken, missing or damaged roofing material
5. Water detection, accumulation or leaks (if any)
6. Condition of roof paint as to whether it's peeling, cracked or damaged

And many more signs. 

Suggested Reads: Roof maintenance and inspection guide for Australian homeowners

Why should you hire Melbourne Quality Roofing experts for your roof inspection, roof repairs, roof restoration and roof painting needs in Melbourne?

When you choose our expert roofers to fix your leaking roof, you benefit from:

1. Our over 25 years of roofing industry experience and expertise
2. Expertise in Melbourne homes
3. Experience in handling thousands of roofs over the years
4. Reliable track record, which is reflected in our Google ratings
5. 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee
6. Upto 10 Years of Workmanship Guarantee
7.  Industry-standard tools and techniques
8. Safety Rails to ensure the safety of your property and our roofers
9. Licensed and Insured roofers

And more. 

We address roofing concerns across Melbourne, including areas Box Hill, Wheelers Hill, Bayswater, Balwyn, Donvale, Caulfield, Mount Eliza, Endeavour Hills, Hallam, Forest Hill, Noble Park, Mitcham, Vermont, Doncaster, Hampton and many more locations. For more information relating to our Melbourne roof restoration, roof repairs and roof painting, get in touch with our roofers today! You can give us a call on 0466 885 133 or write to us on [email protected].