You should never deliberately delay a roof replacement. That’s because roofing damage can affect other parts of your home if a damaged roof isn’t replaced immediately, turning what should have been a relatively straightforward roof replacement into a more expensive overhaul of your exterior.
Any deliberate delays may cause serious roofing issues to emerge. These include the following:
Structural Damage
The longer the delay, the longer your interior is left exposed to the elements. Rainwater follows the path of least resistance. If there’s a leak in your roof, it’s only a matter of time until water manages to find it and infiltrate your roof. If rainwater does infiltrate your roof’s underlayers, it can weaken the structural beams supporting your home and cause structural damage, which can complicate your roof replacement.
Mold and Health Risks
Mold and moisture damage usually go hand in hand. Leaks create a damp environment that’s the perfect breeding ground for mold, which can cause further structural damage by eating away at the wooden components of your home’s structure. Mold spores also pose a health risk as they can trigger allergies and aggravate respiratory conditions.
Important note: musty smells are a sign there may be mold in your roof. If there are musty smells in your attic or your allergies start to flare up, you should have a professional roofer conduct an inspection.
Electrical Issues
If water from leaks manages to make its way to your home’s electrical wiring, it may cause electrical issues.
Pest Damage
Roof damage creates an opening for pests (which love to nest in small, dark spaces) to infiltrate your roof, leaving your home vulnerable to pest damage.
Higher Utility Bills
Cool air can leak out of gaps in your roof or exterior, forcing your HVAC system to consume more electricity to keep indoor temperatures at a comfortable level.
Higher Roof Replacement Costs
The longer you delay a roof replacement, the higher the risk that roofing damage will affect other parts of your home. This will result in higher replacement costs.
Christian Brothers Roofing, a family-owned company with more than two decades of experience, offers a wide range of professional roofing services, including roof repair and replacement services. To get a free estimate, call us at (270) 715-1999, or fill out this form.