If you suspect your roof of leaking, you must take swift action to minimize the damage. Small leaks pose the biggest threat because they only surface over time. If weeks pass, this could mean rotting wood, mold and soggy insulation. Consequently, you and your family may experience a variety of respiratory complications.

Key Indicators of a Leaky Roof

Leaky roofs are not always apparent. Besides ceiling stains and discolouration, most tell-tales can only be seen from the exterior:

• Buckling, curling or missing shingles;
• Peeling or rotting around skylights, vents and other roof fixtures;
• Algae or mold on the shingles or flashing.

You can also visit the attic and do a smell test—mustiness means exposure to water.

All the Signs Point to a Leak

When a leak is imminent, the first step is to contain the water. Move furniture out of harm’s way, then place buckets wherever necessary to stop puddling. When water pours through rapidly, puncture a hole in the ceiling near the leak to drain it faster. As well, setup a fan in the affected room to dry the water and circulate the air.

Once contained, you must ascertain where the water is coming from. This can be difficult because rafters can divert water away from its source. Thus, the interior breach does not always indicate where the exterior problems are. If you can determine where the leak has sprung, consider tarping it until a professional can come in to assess the situation.

Will Insurance Help Pay for the Repairs?

After contacting a roofing company, you’ll want to reach out to your insurance broker. Most policies cover water damage and roof replacement costs unless you are proven negligible. When leaks occur because of improper maintenance, it becomes an at-fault situation. This is why regular inspections are paramount in maintaining a healthy roof.