Roof
Leakage Causes Termite Damage
Roof leaks are often identified by a dark staining of the
plywood roof sheathing (decking) and framing in the attic. If allowed to continue
uncorrected, water damaged wooden components often begin to rot due to a wood destroying
fungus (wood rot) that grows in and quickly decays the wood.
At first glance, the roof sheathing and truss framing shown
in the photo above
appears to be rotting from Wood Destroying Fungi. However, upon closer inspection (CLICK on image to
enlarge), we see that in addition to fungi, termites have also infested the decaying wood; a common
occurrence as termites and other wood destroying insects zero in on rotting wood as a
source of food or to nest. The result is a potentially expensive repair due the fact
that the roof cover will need to be removed to allow access to the damaged components for
removal. In addition, as the photograph shows, the damage to the trusses (framing
members) holding up the roof system is structural in nature and requires corrective action
to restore and ensure structural integrity to the roofing system.
During the inspection that uncovered the condition, the home
inspector observed that the framing members pictured had been completely
"hollowed" by the termites which feed on the cellulose grains inside the wood.
Simply grabbing the 2 x 8 would have crushed it to pieces.
Roof leaks commonly occur at flashing areas where protrusions
pass through the roof surface (such as vent stacks, chimneys, and skylights). But
roof leaks can also occur at seams or connection areas such as valleys and flashing areas
where a lower roof slope meets a cheek wall.
click on image above to
enlarge
The digital photo above was taken by a
Guardian® home inspector during a pre-purchase home
inspection.
- Looking for a home?
Check out our Dream Home Condition Search™ -- the only Internet home
search that allows you to learn about the CONDITION of the home before you see it.
- Building a Home?
Make sure your Dream Home is a Good Home™ with Guardian® New Home Inspections.
|
