Rain is just a part of life in many areas of Victoria, especially during the winter months. For homeowners, rain means more than just a gloomy day; it can present a very real risk to your property and belongings, should your roof begin to leak. Learning how to not only effectively manage a leaking roof, but also how to actively prevent roof leaks, is crucial in such a wet climate.
What to Do When Your Roof Leaks
Discoloration on a ceiling may be the first sign all is not well with your roof, but extreme leaks can send water dripping right into the upper levels of your home with little warning. Mould, mildew and discoloration around the ceiling are an immediate warning that your roof is leaking, and should be addressed by a professional as soon as possible. Not only can roof leaks cause the obvious water damage to your home; they can also present a very real risk if moisture penetrates lighting and electrical fixtures.
At the first sign of water intrusion or potential roof leaks, it’s imperative to call a professional. Still, there’s a better solution all around: preventing leaks in the first place.
Preventing Roof Leaks
Avoiding a crisis is always better than managing one, and roof leaks certainly qualify as a crisis. Rather than waiting until heavy rains send water pouring into your home, you should always make the effort of adhering to basic maintenance guidelines in order to prevent damage from occurring in the first place.
Eventually, even the most well-built roof will need some attention. Slate and tile can last for decades, but long before there’s a need for full replacement or heavy repairs, there’s an opportunity to maintain your roof. One of the simplest ways of preventing roof leaks, for instance, is simply to make sure you clean and maintain your gutters and valleys. Blocked valleys, gutters and downpipes are a leading cause of water damage, and are relatively easy to prevent.
Blocked or damaged gutters and downpipes may be one of the more common culprits to blame for roof leaks, but they’re not the only issue. Simple deterioration and the march of time can contribute to issues which ultimately culminate in a leak. Improperly installed flashing, cracked tiles, or damaged cement pointing are all potential issues of which homeowners should be aware. Whether you’re purchasing a property or simply not sure about the condition of the home you currently own, the best way to prevent roof leaks is to work with a professional building inspector for regular evaluations of your property. Unlike roofing contractors, who have a vested interest in finding fault with what may be a perfectly sound roof, an inspector has no financial stake in the findings of their report because they offer no repair or mitigation services.
Before heavy rains and lack of maintenance wreak havoc with your roof, contact an independent professional building inspection company to schedule an evaluation. Through early detection and intervention, you can potentially avoid exorbitantly expensive and damaging leaks this winter.
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