Homeownership is one of the biggest accomplishments one can reach in their lifetime. To many, owning property is still one of the main cornerstones of The American Dream.
That being said, it’s important to remember that homeownership is also a big responsibility. A home is a lot to care for, and there are all kinds of problems that may arise that you’ll need to know how to take care of.
Learning how to fix a leak can be a big part of this task.
A leak in a roof after a storm can be a significant problem for homeowners. It can cause damage to the structure of the home and lead to water damage, mold growth, and other issues. With the right tools, materials, and techniques, it is possible to repair a leak in a roof and prevent further damage.
Read on and we’ll walk you through what you need to know.
Assess The Damage Once Safe
Once the storm has passed and the coast is clear, take the time to look into the leak you may have first noticed during the storm. Likely, this will require you to carefully get up to your roof to see where the problem might be coming from.
You’ll need to ensure you’re doing this cautiously and with safety in mind.
When assessing the damage, it’s important to look for any visible signs of damage, such as missing or broken shingles, cracks in the roof, or gaps in the flashing around chimneys or vents. If you can, use a flashlight to inspect the attic and crawl spaces for any signs of water damage or mold growth.
If you cannot locate the source of the leak, it may be necessary to call in a professional roofing contractor. They have the tools and experience necessary to locate and repair the leak.
Once you have located the leak, gather the necessary materials and tools to fix it. You will likely need a ladder, some kind of roofing cement or tape, roofing nails, a putty knife, a caulking gun, and a tarp or plastic sheeting.
It’s a smart idea to disconnect the power supply in your home if you think there might be a leak. This can help to prevent electrical fires and other such problems.
Prepare The Affected Area
Before you get to fixing the leak in your roof, you’ll want to prepare the area around the problem. Leaves and twigs likely have fallen during the storm, or potentially even larger branches and other kinds of debris.
You’ll want to remove any debris and sweep the area clean. If there is standing water of any kind, use a mop or towels to remove it.
You want to create a clear and easy working area before actually getting to the damaged area itself. Failure to do so could create additional issues.
Fixing the Leaking Roof
To fix the leak, start by applying roofing cement around the damaged area. Roofing cement is a thick, sticky material that can seal cracks and gaps in the roof. Use a putty knife to spread the cement over the damaged area.
Be sure to cover the damaged area completely and extend the cement at least two inches beyond the damaged area.
Next, apply roofing tape over the roofing cement. Roofing tape is a strong, waterproof tape that can provide additional protection to the damaged area. Use a putty knife to press the tape firmly into the roofing cement.
Finally, use roofing nails to secure the roofing tape and cement in place. Place a nail about every six inches around the perimeter of the damaged area.
This should help re-seal the roof and prevent any water or moisture from getting through. Make sure to check inside and ensure the leaking has completely stopped.
Preventing a Leaking Roof
Knowing you’ve fixed the leaking issue with your roof can feel like a big victory. Still, there’s more to do while you’re on the roof that can help prevent this issue from occurring down the line.
To prevent future leaks, it’s essential to inspect your roof regularly and make any necessary repairs. Trim any overhanging branches that may be rubbing against your roof and remove any debris that may have accumulated on your roof.
You can also use a tarp or plastic sheeting to cover your roof during storms. If you know a storm is coming, cover your roof with a tarp or plastic sheeting to prevent water from penetrating your roof.
Call a Professional If You Need Assistance
If you’re not comfortable working on your roof or if the damage is severe, it’s best to call in a professional roofing contractor. A roofing contractor can assess the damage and make the necessary repairs quickly and efficiently.
They’ll have the tools needed to repair your roof and will be trained and equipped to do so in a safe and efficient manner.
You can rest easy knowing the job will be done well thanks to the experience professionals have under their belt.
How to Fix a Leak in Your Roof
Trying to fix a leak in a roof after a storm can be a daunting task, but with the right tools, materials, and techniques, it is possible to repair the leak and prevent further damage.
The above information can help you determine how to take on this task and take care of your home in a proper manner.
Need help repairing a roof in the Effingham, IL area? Give us a call anytime for immediate assistance.