How Does an Attic or Roof Leak Affect Insulation
When a damaged roof is leaking or plumbing pipes burst, attic insulation is usually the first to be affected. Whatever the insulation material installed throughout the attic, moisture is the biggest enemy. When it’s time for attic or roof leak repair (or even emergency roof repair), homeowners can count on EcoComfort Insulation and Contracting for a comprehensive approach.
While wet or waterlogged insulation will likely have to be removed, the first step to attic or roof leak repair is to identify the source of the water intrusion. In many cases an attic or roof leak that requires emergency roof repair is caused by structural damage to the roof, localized damage to roof shingles, or it could simply be water leakage associated with ice melting in the spring. In each case, expert roof repairs will be required.
When Water Enters the Attic
When water enters the attic and settles on the attic floor, visible signs of water damage will usually appear inside the home. That’s when a physical inspection of the attic and roof is required. And although a cursory assessment of the attic can be performed by the homeowner, it doesn’t compare with an in-depth and professional attic inspection.
With any water intrusion, it's essential to pinpoint the cause and identify the original entry points of water. This allows for an accurate assessment of damage and a plan of action for repairs and possible retrofits. When water damage is substantial, the existing insulation material may require complete removal and replacement with a new upgraded product.
Mold Growth and Insulation
When attic insulation is water damaged in any way, the threat of mold growth is always looming. Here again, immediate attention is necessary to avoid the potential for mold and the likelihood of additional damage throughout the attic. Mold needs moisture and a food source to thrive, so water-damaged attic insulation is the perfect environment.
Simply put, water damage in the attic and roof requires immediate action, particularly with the impending growth of mold. If left unattended, the mold infiltration can grow and spread, causing much more damage and much more cleanup and remediation. The best option, of course, is to have the attic inspected annually for any potential problems.
Attic Emergency Roof Repair
With proper roof maintenance and regular attic inspections, emergency attic or roof leak repair may not be required. That's because problems and issues in the attic and roof cavity are identified early and addressed before bigger problems develop. On the flip side, poor roof maintenance can result in serious problems requiring emergency repairs.
With EcoComfort Insulation and Contracting, homeowners are assured of professional roof and attic inspections that offer a preventive approach to maintenance. A good attic inspection can really pay off – developing problems can be identified early, and major repairs can be avoided, not to mention the need for stressful emergency repairs.
Insulation Removal and Attic Insulation Upgrades
When attic insulation is thoroughly water damaged, complete removal is often required. But before installing new material, the professionals at EcoComfort will recommend the necessary repairs and retrofits to ensure that the attic and roof cavity is watertight and air-tight. Once the physical structure of the attic and roof is in good shape, recommendations are made for an insulation product that will deliver optimal thermal protection and many years of performance.
