Will a leaky roof cause mold? You bet it will and it can cause two types of the unsightly invader: systemic and limited. Systemic growth causes mold growth through an entire area, whereas limited growth which occurs when your attic has enough ventilation to limit the mold growth to the area around the leak.
Ignoring a roof leak is never a good idea. Even the smallest, persistent drip can lead to many issues which are expensive to fix, costing you far more than if you had fixed the leak immediately.
The Environment Mold Thrives In
Mold loves warm, damp, humid environments like unventilated attics and basements. Left unrepaired, a moldy attic can lead to the breakdown of a roof’s structural components and the attic’s sheathing.
The Damage Mold Causes in Your Home
As water finds its way into your home through a leak, it can cause more damage than you might expect.
- Initial damage is typically to the attic where, along with the beginning of structural damage, stored items may be ruined.
- Dark stains appear in the corners of one or more room’s ceilings.
- Structural beams can begin to wear away and rot.
- Wood floors can become uneven.
- Carpets and underlays become waterlogged.
All of these problems can happen very quickly once your roof starts leaking. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t notice the initial damage, which only gives the issue room to grow.
How Mold Can Affect Your Health
As mold and mildew quickly grow and spread through your home they can also cause and/or aggravate serious health issues. Nasal congestion, asthma, headaches, and other respiratory issues like rhinitis can worsen with the presence of mold.
Get Your Leaky Roof Fixed Today
Out of sight does not mean out of mind when dealing with leaky roofs and attic mold. Whether your leaky roof was caused by lack of maintenance, improper installation, or a bad storm, calling in a professional like Moss Roofing in Indianapolis, IN will help maintain the integrity of your home. To learn more about leaky roofs and mold as well as all our other residential roofing and commercial services, contact or call us today to schedule a virtual appointment!
