Getting on top of your home’s roof to check for leaks and damage isn’t for the faint of heart. In fact, it’s not for the typical homeowner at all. Roof work can be dangerous and create the perfect recipe for injury. But if your home has a leaky roof, you may be able to spot it from the inside.

Here are some things to look for:

1. Water Stains on the Ceiling

Water won’t stain your carpet, but it can stain your ceiling if you have a roof leak. If you see water stains on your ceiling, it’s a good indication there is a leak in your roof.

Water stains are usually rusty or brown in color. The liquid seeps into the ceiling, then evaporates, leaving behind a discolored design. Over time, these stains will become bigger and more obvious. They may even start to travel down the wall or even behind the paint or wallpaper.

2. Cracked or Peeling Paint

Another telltale sign of a roof leak is cracked or peeling paint on the ceiling. Repeated exposure to water along with evaporation will cause paint damage. Just like with ceiling stains, peeling or cracking paint will only get worse if not addressed.

Painting over the problem won’t make it go away. You’ll need to address the root cause, which means fixing your roof damage.

3. Mold or Mildew

If you see mold or mildew on the ceiling, it’s a good indication there is a leak in your roof. Mold and mildew grow in moist areas, especially in places where the moisture can’t escape. While some water will evaporate in your ceiling, some will linger and provide the perfect living quarters for mold and mildew.

Mold problems tend to grow over time, so you’ll want to fix your leaky roof as soon as possible. What’s more, you may also need to treat the mold and mildew problem separately to ensure it’s completely removed.

4. Sagging Ceiling

If the ceiling is sagging, it’s a good indication that there is a serious problem with your roof and you should have it inspected by a professional immediately. Ceilings tend to sag when large amounts of water accumulate on the top side of the ceiling. The weight of the water pushes the ceiling to its breaking point. It’s only a matter of time before the whole ceiling collapses.

Chances are, you won’t get to this point. Roof leaks offer several warning signs before the sagging ceiling, such as stains, mold and mildew, and cracking or peeling paint. But if the leak is serious enough, it won’t be long before a sagging ceiling becomes a threat.

5. Musty Odors in Some Rooms But Not Others

When water doesn’t evaporate properly, it can leave behind a musty odor. Unless your whole roof is leaking, you will likely notice this smell in some rooms, but not others.

What to Do Next

If you notice any of these five signs of a roof leak, call your trusted roofing professionals. We’ll do the dangerous work of getting on top of your roof for an inspection and provide you with options to fix your roof. Contact us today!