While roofs typically have lifespans of several decades, they tend to slowly accumulate damage as time goes on. This is especially true in harsh climates, as the elements greatly increase the wear and tear they go through. Occasionally, it becomes severe enough to warrant immediate attention.

1. The Dangers of Having a Damaged Roof
Peter & Lesley Bracey Home Improvements
Address: 3/1 Seaview Avenue, Newport NSW 2106, Australia
Phone: 1800 631 541
Email: peter@peterbracey.com.au

2. While roofs typically have lifespans of several decades, they tend to slowly accumulate damage as time goes on. This is especially true in harsh climates, as the elements greatly increase the wear and tear they go through. Occasionally, it becomes severe enough to warrant immediate attention.
When a roof suffers a significant level of damage or develops a leak, it poses a risk to the entire home and the inhabitants. These problems are not only expensive to fix, but can even cause health and safety issues.

3. 1. Mould growth – One of the most serious vulnerabilities of homes with damaged roofs is mould. Because of how water can easily penetrate the roof and spread throughout the home, it becomes easy for mould colonies to start. This leads to an unsightly, damaged property, and potential respiratory problems for the people inside.
2. Structural damage – Especially for wooden homes, constantly dripping water will also reduce the structural integrity of multiple parts of the building. Rotting and warping is fairly common, and entire sections of drywall will eventually weaken enough to collapse.
3. Fire and electricity hazards – The electrical systems of a home are also not meant to deal with constant exposure to water. Roof leaks can easily become fire and shock hazards, as the water eventually reaches exposed wiring.

4. 4. Wet insulation – Water will also drip down onto the insulation, making it soggy and ineffective at maintaining the temperature. This results in higher energy bills, but the insulation itself also serves as another breeding ground for mould, doubling the problem.
Given these dangers, and how the necessary repairs usually become more expensive over time, roofing experts stress that quickly attending to any sort of roof damage is essential. Not doing so, they say, could lead to lasting health problems and potential safety risks. Homeowners should keep an eye out for potential signs of roof damage, and have these fixed as soon as possible.
Sources:
http://peterbracey.com.au/
http://www.buildings.com/article-details/articleid/1735/title/the-top-10-most- common-roof-problems.aspx
http://homeguides.sfgate.com/ten-common-reasons-roof-leaks-84644.html