What to Do if There is a Leak in a Roof
A leaking roof is no less than a nightmare for any homeowner.
A leaking roof is no less than a nightmare for any homeowner. It can happen anytime, and even a seemingly minor leak can lead to extensive damage, expensive repairs, fire and electrocution risk, and mold and mildew growth. When a roof leaks, prompt action is the key to mitigating its adverse effects. Identifying the underlying cause of the leak and proper repairs becomes essential to manage the situation effectively and save time and money.
If there is a leak in the roof, ignoring it will only make matters worse. Here are a few immediate steps a homeowner should take after noticing a leak in the roofing system:
Clear the area
Water leaking from a roof can damage valuable belongings like furniture and carpets. Therefore, the first thing to do after spotting a leak is to clear the area around the leak and move all the belongings out of the way to a safer place. Also, shut off the power to the specific room to prevent the risk of electrical shock and fire.
Contain leaking water
The next step is to take measures to contain the water to prevent it from damaging the floors and traveling to other home areas, causing widespread damage. Put buckets, pots, or garbage cans underneath to catch the water leaking from the roof. Use a towel or mop to remove the water on the floor. If there are signs of water accumulation, like a dipping or bulging ceiling, use a screwdriver to puncture the lowest point of the bulge to release the water.
Cover the problem area
If the leak source is known, consider temporary measures like covering the damaged area with a tarp or plastic sheet till help arrives. However, only take this step if the roof seems safe to climb. Covering the problem area will offer significant protection till a professional performs the necessary repairs. Alternatively, use roofing tape or caulk to fill the hole or gap to stop a leak temporarily.
Document the damages
If the leaking roof has caused damage covered by insurance, homeowners should always document the same. Take good photos of damaged property and belongings from different angles that can prove helpful while filing the insurance claim. Lack of sufficient documents may cause the homeowner to pay for repairs or replacements out of their pocket.
Contact a professional
A leaky roof is not a small thing, and homeowners should never attempt DIY roof repairs. The most critical thing to do when the roof leaks is to call a professional roofing company for assistance as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Expert roofers can assess the leak and offer lasting solutions. They can also inspect other roof areas to identify and fix weak spots to avoid future leaks. Working with a reliable and experienced roofer ensures superior results.
Safeguard the roof
A roof can leak for various reasons, including old age, broken shingles, poor installation, clogged gutters, cracked flashing, condensation in the attic, ice dam buildup, and improperly sealed valleys. One of the best ways to prevent roof leaks is to ensure regular care and upkeep by a professional roofing company. Staying proactive with roof maintenance goes a long way toward maintaining proper roof functioning and avoiding leaks.
Your Roofologist is a Plano-based licensed roofing contractor specializing in consumer protection in the residential and commercial roofing industry for the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We offer services such as roof inspections, roof repair and replacement, and other exterior and home improvement repairs. We transform homes with ten years of experience backed by excellent service, pride in our workmanship, and a warranty. Call us at (469)535-7852.
