For the most part, your attic is out of sight and out of mind until there is a problem. For example, if your attic suffers from water damage, you may not notice the signs right away. However, the longer water is allowed in your attic, the more damage it can do. Most attic water damage is the result of a roof leak. Openings, big or small, in the roof can allow just enough water in to spark mold or mildew growth. Here is what you should do about a water-damaged attic.
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Common Causes of Roof Leaks
1. Clogged Gutters
Your gutters exist to collect rainwater and channel it away from your home. However, leaves and other debris can easily clog the gutters and cause water to pool. If enough water pools and/or freezes, it can cause damage to the roof and a severe leak in your attic.
2. Ice Dams
Water can freeze near the gutters, causing an ice dam to form. The ice dam can cause water to pool. As more water pools, the potential for a leak grows.
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3. Damaged Shingles
Older roofs or storm damage can negatively affect the shingles on your roof. Once the shingles on your house start to deteriorate, this can allow rainwater and snow to seep into your attic. To prevent severe water damage in your attic, you will want to hire a professional to replace your old roof.
Ways To Determine the Source of Ceiling Water Damage
To find the source of the ceiling damage in your home, trace where the water leak is coming from. Water will fall downhill, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to find where it may be coming from. Check areas where roof plates meet, or where the chimneys and vents protrude from the roof. You should also check any spots where holes were drilled in the roof for things like cables and wires.
What To Do if There Is Water Damage in Your Attic
Once you have determined the source of the water damage, you need to act quickly. First, you will need to contain the water leak in your attic to stop it from spreading damage to other parts of the property. Next, you should place a bucket or container to collect dripping water as you trace the source. Finally, you can drill a small hole in the center of the damaged area to allow pooling water to drain. Ensure you have a protective covering on the floor to stop water from damaging it.
How To Protect Your Attic From Water Damage
- Trim tree branches, so they are away from the roof and walls
- Clear the gutters and downspouts
- Regularly inspect shingles and flashings for signs of water damage
- Get your roof inspected annually
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7 Causes of Water Damage in Attics
- Damaged roof shingles, ridge caps, and underlayment
- Warped or cracked flashing around vents and chimneys
- Ice dams
- Extreme temperatures or improper sealing leading to roof valley leaks
- Cloggs in the gutter and downspout
- Attic ventilation problems allow excessive moisture
- Low-quality insulation leading to frost buildup inside the attic space
What Does Water Damage in an Attic Look Like?
Want to know how to spot water damage in the attic? Look for signs of mold growth or water stains on the ceilings. You may also notice discolored stress on the attic walls or cracks in the attic ceiling under the roof joints. Other signs may include damp, flat insulation and wet rafters, joists, or beams.
Roof Leak Repair and Restoration Services
As soon as you see the first sign of water damage in the attic or know you have a roof leak, call our professionals at (877) 589-7504 to book an appointment. Our team of technicians provide exceptional water damage restoration services in Arlington, TX and other locations. Our staff are equipped with the tools and skills necessary to perform a roof leak restoration project on your property. The quicker you act, the better chance you have of avoiding critical damage. Our team is ready to help you stop water damage at the source, provide repairs, and get your property back to its pre-loss condition.