Your roof is made to protect you and your family. However, it won’t be able to do its intended purpose if there’s something that’s hindering it. One thing that can affect its performance is mold growth and infestation. If the homeowner neglects this problem early on, it will cost them an expensive roof repair or replacement in the future.
What Is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungi that develops as a result of algae growth. Although it can be found everywhere, mold requires a damp and moist environment to grow. Once mold has settled, it can keep your roof materials damp, making them more susceptible to rot.
Damaging Effects of Mold on Your Roof
There are a lot of things that mold can do to affect your home. Here are some of its known effects:
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Structural Damage to Your Home – One of the materials that is most susceptible to mold growth is your roof shingles. It can rot your shingles, weakening them and allowing more water and moisture to get into your home. Once water gets inside, it can drip down even further and gradually weaken your foundation over time.
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Health Problems – There are a few types of mold, but the most dangerous one is Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as black mold. This can be found in areas like the attic and roof decking. Prolonged exposure to black mold can cause significant pulmonary problems, especially in children and infants. It can also trigger severe allergies in many people.
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Ugly Stains on Walls – Mold growth is unsightly, and it can leave behind ugly stains. Because of that, allowing mold to grow on your roof can easily ruin your home’s aesthetics and curb appeal. Even if your interior looks magnificent, seeing mold on your home’s exterior may lead potential buyers to think that the house was neglected by its current homeowner.
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Rodent and Pest Infestation – Mold can be a breeding ground for rodents and pests. For example, mice and squirrels can get into your attic via your damaged roof because they’re attracted to damp areas. These rodents can gnaw and chew on your roofing material, leading to even more damage to your home. Once these unwanted guests have settled in, they can use parts of your roof to make their own nests.
Ways To Spot Mold on Your Roof
There are a few easy ways to know if you have mold on your roof or not. Here are a few telltale signs that you can look for before it’s too late:
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Rancid Odor – Mold is often accompanied by a rancid odor that can easily be distinguished. This smell occurs because the mold in your home is making spores, producing gasses called microbial volatile organic compounds. (MVOC). Even if there are no visible signs, once you smell something musty inside your house, you can use it to track down mold growth.
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Visual Signs – Check for any discoloration and watermarks in your attic and on your ceiling. Mold can come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, brown, green, black, and more. Once you spot these inside your home, they have to be dealt with as soon as possible.
How To Prevent Mold From Growing
It’s a good idea to inspect your roof and attic from time to time. It’s recommended that you inspect it four times a year so that you can spot any leaks and damage early on. If you find any damage, it’s best to do roof repair as soon as possible to prevent any water and moisture from getting into your house.
You can also call roofing experts to ensure sufficient insulation. Proper insulation can reduce moisture buildup and delay mold growth. Insulation is crucial, especially during winter when temperatures are low.
Roofing contractors can also clear out your gutters. When your gutters and downspouts are blocked by debris and dead leaves, water will overflow, causing more water damage and moisture. Clearing out your gutters from time to time can prolong your roof’s durability.
Doing the necessary precautions to prevent mold from developing can go a long way. If done correctly, you can keep your roof and home beautiful for a long time.
