Taking into consideration that our roof endures extreme sun and weather along with it being the only thing that protects us from the elements or a natural disaster, it is obvious that at some point, your roof will have to be repaired or replaced.
If you discover that your roof is leaking,you will need to fix it immediately to avoid further damage to the interior of your home via water damage and mold. In some cases, your home owners insurance may cover some if not all of the repairs. Due to the complexities of roof damage and any subsequent insurance claims, it is of the utmost importance to inspect, document, and take pictures of the damage yourself or with an inspector, and then inform your insurance agent of the damage. All of the information gathered is crucial in processing a roofing insurance claim, especially if it is from storm damage directly.
Common causes of a leaky roof and how mold will grow.
An outdated roof, general roof damage, wind damage, storm damage, improper flashing, poor workmanship, etc. are all some of the most common reasons as to what would cause a roof to leak.
If and when a roof leaks, water makes its way into the building, and trickles down as far is it can go while being absorbed. In a lot of cases, water can travel as far down as a buildings foundation. Roof decking, roof trusses, ceilings, drywall, wall studs, all the way to the flooring are all susceptible to water damage and mold.
After these areas and organic materials end up getting wet, they all become prime areas for mold growth. Keep in mind it only takes 24-48 hours for mold to start thriving in these types if conditions, and even more so for people living in sultry South Florida.
Common areas where a roof can leak-
- Anywhere there is a weak point with worn out shingles.
- Around skylights
- Around chimneys
- Around pipes and chases
- On peaks and points of a roof
- In valleys of roof
- Around gutters and soffits
Some of the tools, systems, and services utilized to find and fix the source of the water leak(s) –
- Aerial drone home inspections
- Advanced robotics property inspection systems
- Hydrosensors
- UV mold sensors
- Infrared FLIR imaging systems
- Air particle counters
- Roof and Attic inspections
- Roof Repairs
- General related water damage repairs
- Water intrusion and water proofing services.
After water has made its way into the home or building, one of the first actions to take would be to dry put all of the wet areas as soon as possible. In cases where water has made its way entirely into a building, sometimes you may have to rip out and remove ceiling panels, sheetrock, flooring, etc. in order to dry out other parts of a building as to mitigate the risk of a toxic mold infestation.
If by chance you have just discovered an existing water leak, it would be highly advisable to have a complete water intrusion, roof, and mold inspection to make sure there is no mold growing along with identifying the source or sources of the water leak in order to fix the main issue.
Most water leak inspections start in the attic. The water leak and water damage will be the most obvious after a heavy rain, afternoon shower, or storm. A visual inspection in the attic, in most cases, usually helps the inspector pinpoint the source of the roof leak almost immediately. From here the inspector will go out onto the roof to externally inspect and identify the suspected areas where there will need to be repairs. The inspector should also walk through each room of the home or building to inspect walls, around windows and doors, and ceilings. Ceiling spots are a sign that your roof or unit above you needs repairs. If you see paint peeling on your ceiling, this can sometimes be a sign that your attic has poor ventilation, is extremely hot, and is full of excess humidity and moisture. As this is usually the case for many people living in South Florida, many residents install solar powered attic ventilation systems to mitigate heat, excess moisture, potential mold growth, and high electric bills. Some also choose to go the extra mile in terms of attic mold prevention and use anti-fungal coatings to encapsulate and protect their entire attic from toxic mold.
Do you suspect you have a water leak, roof leak, or excess humidity and moisture in your attic? Click here for more information on Miami Mold Specialists water intrusion inspection and waterproofing services
About Miami Mold Specialists-
South Florida’s Premier Indoor Air Quality, Environmental Services, and Mold Removal Service Provider- Miami Mold Specialist: High Tech and Eco Friendly Indoor Air Quality, Mold Assessments and Environmental Consulting, 3rd Party “Conflict Free” Mold Testing, Mold Removal and Mold Remediation, Mold Prevention, Radon Testing, Water Damage Control, and Water Protection and Purification Services by Miami Mold Specialist.
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