Leaky Roofs Cause Moldy Ceilings

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold on Ceiling from a Leaking Roof.

When your property in East Baton Rouge suffers roof damage, you probably do not think about other problems that might spring up as a result. However, if the leak goes unchecked, you could find yourself looking at a dark spot on the ceiling and wondering if it is black mold.

Signs of a Leaky Roof

A roof leak can go unnoticed for some time, but there are signs that will tell you that you need to do a quick inspection for water damage:

• A musty attic
• Dark spots on ceilings and walls
• Decaying wood in the attic
• Damaged or missing shingles
• A ceiling leak or skylight leak
  
  

If you notice any of these signs, you should have a commercial restoration and mold remediation expert inspect your property. It takes time for water to get through your roof, layers of insulation and into your ceiling, so the problem could be larger than you think.

How Leaks Help Mold Grow
Stachybotrys chartarum, or black mold, is the most well-known, but many kinds of fungus can settle into your building because of a roof leak. No matter the type, all mold needs three things: moisture, food, and a warm environment. A leaky roof can provide all three of these essentials by letting moisture into attic spaces that contain porous materials such as wood, insulation and drywall that, once wet, lack the proper ventilation to dry out.

Fixing the Problem
If you find that you have a leaky roof, the first step to preventing any further issues is to fix it. Because the damage could be more extensive than it seems, hiring professionals to handle repairs and any resulting mold issues is the safest way to go.
Dealing with any kind of mold, not just black mold, is a business owner’s nightmare, but with early detection and the right help, your building will be back to working condition in no time.