Homeowners who believe they can put off roof repairs might be in for an unpleasant surprise when they realize that roof leaks can cause mold, requiring more repairs to their home than just the roof. And mold can start growing in under 48 hours!
There are two types of mold that can be caused by a roof leak: systemic and limited growth. As the name suggests, systemic growth affects a larger part of the home, typically the attic. This happens when a leak allows enough moisture buildup for mold to affect a large area.
Limited growth mold occurs when only a select area is affected. This is typically the area around the leak. Otherwise-adequate ventilation prevents mold from growing in other areas. Mold removal only has to occur at the site.
Regardless of the type of mold, the roof leak must first be fixed before remediation can be effective. Otherwise, the mold will return. Furthermore, a roof leaf can cause extensive damage to ceilings, walls, and even floors if left unchecked. There are also risks of leaks allowing water to come into contact with electrical fixtures.
It’s necessary to determine the cause of the leak, which can range from improper insulation in an attic that leads to an ice dam in colder climates to roof anchors, to perform the right repair. Then, mold removal can begin.
Once the current mold has been removed, the area must be thoroughly dried to prevent regrowth. Heat and dehumidifying can aid this process. In some cases, it may be necessary to add better airflow to prevent further mold growth due to condensation. Finally, the mold stain must be treated in order to avoid it from coming back.
While the best time to deal with a roof leak is before it becomes a problem and before seasons with a lot of snow or rain, the second-best time to tackle the issue is as soon as it’s discovered, preventing further damage and mold growth from occurring.
Furthermore, living with mold can cause health concerns for homeowners and their family members. While these symptoms can mimic a cold or allergies, they are no trivial matter, especially for those who already have breathing conditions such as asthma and people who have compromised health.
Roof leaks and mold removal can be frustrating for homeowners, which is why we strive to provide professional services without making a difficult situation worse.
Visit our home page at Carsa Construction.
