One of the hidden dangers of a roof leak is fire. It may seem counterintuitive, but water could start a series of events that might end up burning your property down. Today, Tedrick’s Roofing expounds on how it could happen:
Water Could Get Into Electrical Wires
A leaky roof becomes a fire hazard when it comes in contact with live electrical circuitry. It can cause a spark and make the surrounding combustible materials go up in flames.
A metal junction box may hide the uncovered wiring and insulation may protect it, but neither of them offers impregnable defense. Drops of water could easily seep into the junction box’s hinges and penetrate through any break in insulation. Even if your insulation is intact, the water could cause it to clump with moisture.
Electrical Fires Are Difficult to Put Out
To make matters worse, electrical fires don’t go out quickly. Any roofing contractor will agree that many property owners instinctively use water to put them out without success. Water will be electrically charged, so people are at great risk of being electrocuted as well.
The logical step is to evacuate the building and report the incident immediately to the fire department. However, if you spot the leakage early, and there is no fire, power off the circuits running through the affected area. Then, let an electrician investigate.
Early Detection Is the Best Prevention
You can’t do much when a leak-caused electrical fire has already started, which is why you should focus on taking preventive measures instead. Getting your roofing system routinely inspected by professionals can help detect signs of leakage and have them addressed early. Regardless of its age or material, your roof requires regular checkups to protect your entire property from water intrusion along with its costly consequences.
Leave your preventive roof maintenance needs to Tedrick’s Roofing; we can help minimize the chances of leakage and electrical fire. Call us at (206) 824-3440 now to schedule your FREE, no-obligation inspection and estimate in Auburn, WA, or any nearby area.