How to Recognize When a Roof Is About to Collapse

A collapsed roof rarely happens without pre-warning unless it is caused by heavy impact or extreme conditions like earthquakes. Sometimes, they may be caused by improper construction and poor maintenance, but these often have warning signs. Here are five things that can alert you your roof is on the verge of collapsing.

 

Visible Sagging

It may be hard to identify when your roof is sagging by looking at it from inside the house. However, when outside, you can easily notice the line of the roof appearing to have bowed down. Even when the sagging seems minor, it is vital to contact professionals, as the problem can quickly escalate and cause the roof to collapse.

 

Leaks

Leaks in your home often originate from a damaged roof. A leaking roof can lead to water damage in the building. This includes destruction of the decking material, as wood can rot and metal will rust. Cleaning up is just one of the steps to take when you notice a leak. Identify and repair the source of the leak immediately and check the areas where the water may have caused damage.

Weather Damage

It is vital to have a roof inspection after a storm or heavy snow, as these are weather elements that can cause damage. Snow accumulation on the roof can be dangerous due to the extra weight the roof was not designed to bear. 

 

Cracks on Ceiling and Walls

There are multiple causes of cracks on the surfaces of a building, and a failing roof is one of them. A roof that’s about to collapse cannot hold its weight and transfers it to the other structures of the house. This can result in cracks, and if the problem is not solved on time, it can develop and cause extreme house damage.

 

Creaking or Squeaking Sounds

You may hear sounds often on your roof as the weather changes. This is because of old age and can happen as the materials expand or contract as the temperature changes. However, if you hear the noise continue as it rains and the sound is loud, it could indicate a potential roof collapse.

 

To prevent a collapsed roof, hire a professional roofer for regular inspections and maintenance. They can spot an issue and help fix it on time to stop the problem from escalating. Also, ensure there is a proper slope to prevent the accumulation of snow and debris whose weight can trigger a collapse.