Skylights are meant to enhance the curb appeal of the house. Most homeowners consider it to be an excellent component of the home. Skylights can change the way people perceive the attic region of the house. The light entering the topmost section of the house is just mesmerizing. But skylights leak can turn dreams into nightmares.
The smallest leak in the skylight can damage the roof in a way you cannot imagine. If you ignore the skylight damage for long, it can damage the roof beyond repair. It is essential for every homeowner to inspect the skylight regularly for damages. If you notice any cracks or water leaks, consult roofing contractors and fix them.
Here are some ways in which the skylight leak can damage the roofs of the house.
#1 Skylight Leaks Damage The Flashing
Flashing is a crucial roof component. The function of flashing is to prevent water leaks in the house. Flashing offers a watertight barrier and seals the roof. It does not let the water enter any part of the roofs. When the skylight gets damaged, it creates pressure over flashing. Due to high pressure, the flashing cracks. Moreover, the water leaks from the skylight can corrode the flashing.
#2 Damage To The Weep Holes
You can see the weep holes around the skylight. The function of the weep holes is to provide proper air circulation. It helps in drawing out the water from the skylight and keeps the surroundings dry. But the skylight leak blocks the weep holes. The air circulation blocks. It causes the condensed air to drip. The roofs experience excessive moisture content building up in the roofs. It can destroy the roof underlayment and even the shingles.
#3 Leads To Insulation Problems
When there is a consistent water leak from the skylight, it will increase the condensation process. The roof ventilation will find it difficult to circulate the air. The blocked air will have direct implications on the insulation of the house. If the insulation is not effective, then you will notice a sudden spike in the electric bills. Ineffective insulation will disrupt the temperature inside the house.
#4 Damage To The Weather Seals
The function of the weather seals is to offer waterproofing functionality. They act as a barrier and block the rainwater and snow water from penetrating the roofs and houses. The skylight leaks will disrupt the functioning of the water seals. The leaks corrode the weather seals and make them inefficient.
#5 Warping Of The Roof Wood
The skylight leaks cause damage to the roof wood (the underlayment area). Due to excessive moisture content, the wood becomes warped and keeps expanding. After a certain time, the warped wood leads to the roof sagging and collapsing.
Now that you are familiar with how skylights leaks can damage the roof. Besides, skylight leaks can cause damage to the house as well. Check out the ways in which the house suffers from skylight leaks.
#1 Uncontrolled Growth Of Mold And Mildew
If there is a leakage in the skylight, it can penetrate the ceiling and walls of the house. Due to this, the surrounding area will always be covered with excessive moisture. The moisture content will make the area damp and moist.
Within no time, the moist area becomes the breeding ground of mold and mildew. The uncontrolled growth of mold/mildew is not a good sign for the structural integrity of the house and roof. Besides, mold and mildew can cause respiratory issues to the family members. Respiratory issues include asthma, nausea, constant sneezing, lung allergies, and more.
#2 Damage To Paint
Water leaks can cover up the surrounding walls and ceiling with moisture. The moisture gets trapped within the paint and removes. Trapped moisture creates bubbles inside the layer of paint. It is the reason behind the discoloration of paint. Besides, it leaves water stains on the walls and ceiling.
If you want to prevent skylight leaks, schedule regular roof inspection, and maintenance. The preventive measures will help you to protect your roof and house. The preventive measures will help you from expensive repair and replacement of the roofs.
Summary
Skylight leaks can cause severe damage to the roof. It is better to opt for regular inspection and maintenance to verify the condition of the roof. If the skylight leaks are beyond repair, you can get the help of the Arko Exterior team in Minnesota. The team is highly experienced and has the skills to fix all kinds of roofing damages.