What Happens if My Roof is Leaking?

We’ve all heard the phrase, “When it rains, it pours.” Unfortunately, that’s all too true regarding a roof leak. A small leak, which might seem innocent enough, can quickly become a major issue if not dealt with immediately. And by dealing with it, we mean more than just putting a bucket under the leak and waiting for the rain to pass. 

What To Do if You Find a Roof Leak

Though intended to provide shelter and keep us dry, roofs are susceptible to damage, especially as they age under the intense sun and heat of Austin’s climate. If there’s a strong storm with wind or hail, the damage can happen even more quickly. 

If you notice a leak in your Austin home, the first thing you should do is try to contain it – and yes, this does mean grabbing a bucket. But don’t stop there. 

Call us at Storm Guard of SW Austin to have a professional roofing expert inspect your property both inside and out. 

Identifying the source of the leak can be more challenging than it might seem. Water will follow the path of least resistance, and sometimes that means the true source of the leak is several feet away from where the water is dripping.

What Happens After a Leak?

A leaky roof will not fix itself, and the next time it rains or moisture builds up, the leak will just be bigger. If you notice stains or discoloration on your ceiling, bubbling or sagging, you’re witnessing water damage at work. 

Water damage causes persistent problems and rears its ugly head in the form of mold and other property damage. Both can ruin your home’s structural integrity and cause significant health concerns. 

How Long Can You Leave a Leaking Roof?

You should always fix a leaking roof as quickly as possible. Otherwise, the damage will not fix itself, and in fact, it will only get worse. But you may be wondering exactly how long you have before severe damage begins to set in. A day? A week? A month?

The answer will depend on your given situation, the extent of the damage, and the type of materials you have, among other variables. One certain thing, however, is that the longer you wait, the more damage you’ll have. And more damage nearly invariably means more expense. 

The Dangers of Waiting to Fix a Leaking Roof

Roof repairs can be expensive, and investing in a new roof is never as fun as taking a vacation or upgrading other parts of your home. However, neglecting a leak has real consequences, and it’s far better to prioritize the repair rather than hold off hoping to see how much more time you can eke out of your roof.

Roof leaks are often just a tipping point. They generally signal a much bigger issue that may not be noticeable if you aren’t looking for it. Hiring a professional roofer is your best defense against water damage and preventing further issues. 

Waiting to fix a leak can lead to visible damage, such as roof stains, mold, and discoloration on ceilings and walls, and further damage to your home’s structural integrity. Working with a professional roofer will help you understand the extent of roof damage to your Austin home and what options you have for repairing it. 

If you need a roof inspection so you can stay on top of annual roof maintenance, or you woke up to the sounds of a leaky roof, we can help. Get in touch with us at Storm Guard of SW Austin for immediate assistance.