There is nothing worse than noticing a damp ceiling or hearing the sound of water dripping where it shouldn’t be. For homeowners all around the country, a leaking roof is probably one of the most undesirable things that they may face. Staying on top of your roof maintenance is essential whether you have a new build or an old house.
In the case of minor leaks, you can usually take care of the problem yourself. So we have put together a few tips to fix a roof leak before it becomes a bigger problem.
How Do Leaks Occur?
There are lots of reasons why your roof might leak. These include:
- Broken or worn shingles
- Loose nails
- Poorly fitted or damaged flashing
- Damaged gutters
- Ice dams during the winter season
First Things First
Before you get out the tools, it is crucial that you find the exact location of the leak. This can sometimes be a lot easier than it sounds. Start by making a visual inspection of the roof and attic for any visible signs of damage. If you can’t find a definite point, then you will need to enlist the help of a friend.
One person will use a hose to spray water onto the roof, while another person stays in the attic with a flashlight to see where the leak is coming from. Once you have found it, you will know precisely where you need to do the work.
Replace and Repair Shingles
If you discover that damaged or missing shingles are the reason for the leak, then you should replace them as soon as possible. This will help you maintain the structural integrity of the roof and also keep the inside of your house dry.
Before you get started, make sure that you purchase the correct type of shingles and that you have the right kind of equipment to do the job.
A Quick Fix
If you don’t have the right shingles or enough time to do a thorough job, pop down to your local hardware shop to get a 12-by-12 sheet of galvanized metal flashing, which you can use a temporary cover for the hole. You can slip the sheet under the damaged shingles, and that should keep you dry until you’re able to do a more thorough job.
Fix Other Issues Quickly
If you notice any damage to flashing, gutters, and dormer walls, you should fix these as soon as possible. Problems with flashing and guttering can lead to ice dams during in the winter or poor drainage of water after storms. This all puts pressure on the shingles, so take care of your maintenance throughout the year.
If there is any rotten, cracked, or missing siding on your walls, you should either replace these or caulk the affected area.
No Time to Do It Yourself
If you are busy or you think the job is too much for you, then you should hire a roofing contractor. They will have a lot of experience and will be able to get the job done quickly so that you can focus on your daily life.
