Subtle Signs of a Roof Leak

Roof leaks can lead to serious issues and potential damage to your home. However, you may not notice the early signs of a roof leak. By the time you notice your leak, you could already need extensive repairs and restoration. To make leak detection even more difficult, you could see signs of a leak that may not actually be a roof leak.

You have to be diligent when you investigate a leak. Here is more information about the subtle signs of roof leaks as well as things to know about false roof leaks.

Outside signs of a roof leak

Sometimes, you can spot a leak when you look at your roof’s exterior. However, some leaks are not obvious and take a little investigation. Here are some exterior signs of a roof leak.

Missing tiles

Even if you don’t notice water damage inside, a missing tile means your home is not protected. Water can easily make its way under the other tiles and beneath the underlayment.

Soft spots

Soft spots indicate that your roof is weak and possibly damaged. Soft spots could allow water to seep through to your roof cavity. If you ignore a soft spot too long, you could experience roof collapse.

Clogged gutters and downpipes

Gutters help direct excess water away from your roof and your home’s exterior. When you have clogged gutters, excess water builds up and seeps into your roof’s materials. If you frequently have gutter issues, check for roof debris that could indicate your roof material needs attention.

Mould on exterior walls

Mould on the exterior walls is another sign of a gutter problem. The mould grows where the water frequently flows down on the side of the house.

Inside signs of a roof leak

Many people first notice a roof problem when they notice water damage inside the home. Here are some interior signs of a roof leak.

Stains and drips from the ceiling

Water that leaks through your roof and into your attic could eventually make it down the ceiling and leave a stain. Sometimes, the wet spots and stains are very subtle and almost unnoticeable, particularly around vents and light fixtures.

Mould streaks on walls

If you have a large enough leak, the water may drip down the walls. If the walls stay moist long enough, then mould could develop.

Peeled paint

Peeled paint, especially on the ceiling, is a clear sign of excess moisture. Water-damaged paint tends to bubble up and peel in a specific spot. Age-related paint peeling is usually more widespread.

Overall signs and causes of a false roof leak

One thing to consider when you see interior roof leak signs is that they may be from other issues. For example, mould on the walls can also indicate a plumbing issue. In that instance, the mould could show up near the bottom of the wall. Excess condensation in your roof cavity could be enough to seep through and cause ceiling stains. An expert can accurately determine the exact cause of these issues.

Even if you don’t see any signs of a roof problem, have your roof inspected about once a year. Also, check your roof if you have an unusual weather event or if significant debris falls on your roof.

When you hire a professional roofing company, you get experts who know what to look for in regards to leaks. Homestyle Roof Painters can thoroughly examine your roof for leaks and make small spot repairs in some cases. We can also fully repair and restore your roof if needed. If you are in the Sunshine Coast or Moreton Bay areas, call us to schedule an appointment to have a technician come out to your home.