What Parts of Your House Can Be Water-Damaged by Roof Leaks?
You’re probably concerned about roof leaks caused by ice dams on your roof, but anything that causes roof leaks also can cause water damage in your home. The extent of the damage depends on how much water gets in, where it goes, and how long it sits.
Here’s a partial list of the components of a home that can be water-damaged (or destroyed) by roof leaks:
- Roof deck
- Insulation (attic, wall cavity, and floor joist)
- Drywall
- Plaster (walls and ceilings)
- Windows, window jambs, and trim
- Doors, door jambs, and trim
- Recessed lighting fixtures
- Wiring
- Wall plate
- Paint
- Rim joist
- Sill
- Fixtures (e.g. lamps and cabinets)
In other words, pretty much any material in your home that can rot (wood), crumble, (drywall), or fry (wiring) is vulnerable to water damage caused by roof leaks (often in turn caused by ice dams).
Of course, water can damage much more than your home: It also can damage most things in your home, including:
- Furniture (especially upholstered furniture)
- Bedding
- Appliances
- Electronics
- Photos and other irreplaceable items
In a fight between building materials and water, water always wins. Nothing can destroy a home the way water can – whether it comes through your basement or through your roof. But the good news is nothing can keep your home safe, fully functional, and comfortable the way dryness can. Get your ice dam removed before it becomes a leak and an emergency.
