The roof of any residential or commercial structure serves as the first line of defense against the elements, including the weather, animal infestation, and debris. It provides safety and security for occupants of the building, but there are certain circumstances that may compromise this primary function.

1. Beyond Inconvenience
Issues: Leaky Roofs are a
Health Concern

2. The roof of any residential or commercial structure serves as the
first line of defense against the elements, including the weather,
animal infestation, and debris. It provides safety and security for
occupants of the building, but there are certain circumstances that
may compromise this primary function.
Poor roof installation, lack of proper maintenance, damaged parts
due to severe weather, and excessive moisture causes leaks in the
structure. While these problems appear to be me re inconvenient,
structural and aesthetic issues, the truth is, they are also a health
concern.
The Case of Mould Growth
One of the most serious consequences of roof leaks is mould.
Excessive moisture promotes the growth of such microorganisms;
these fungi enter a property directly or through spores in the air. It
can penetrate the HVAC system and the rest of the house through
vents, affecting air quality and health.
Mould reproduces tiny spores, which are invisible to the naked eye.
Often, homeowners do not know that there is mould contamination
until these spores land on surfaces and begin to grow. These
particles that gather in items within the property can easily be
inhaled.
All of this can quickly develop into serious health issues, such as
respiratory problems (coughing, difficulty in breathing, chest
tightness, bronchitis, asthma) eye and throat irritation, nasal and
sinus congestion. Some medical researchers propose that long-
term exposure may also lead to neurological problems.

3. The Need for Proper
Maintenance and Repairs
It is crucial for property
owners to take immediate
action for roof leak problems
to prevent not just problems
with the property’s structural
integrity, but also to prevent
further health risks. Signs of
these issues include damp
areas in fireplaces, dark spots
in ceilings, flaking and
cracking paint on the
underside of roof overhangs,
and water stains on pipe
vents or furnace.
Maintenance and inspection are important prevention strategies,
the specifics of which depend on the type of roofing material. Most
roofing experts recommend servicing every 3-5 years, with key
considerations being the condition of shingles, vent pipes, and
caulk, and build-up of moss and lichen, which indicates decaying
roof.
Leaky roofs are not just an inconvenience or an aesthetic problem;
they also pose serious health risks for home and business owners.
Proper maintenance and repairs are not just an option; they are
most important in keeping a safe living and working environment.

4. RESOURCES:
http://www.permacoat.com.au/roof-maintenance-repairs/
http://www.public.health.wa.gov.au/cproot/2887/2/Mould+Fact+Shee
t.pdf
http://www.ballarat.vic.gov.au/media/414116/mould_growth.pdf
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19854819