How To Stop Roof Leaks in 6 Easy Steps

The most common causes of leaky roofs include broken shingles, cracked flashings, clogged gutters, and poorly installed vents and skylights. Although you could fix some minor issues yourself, always contact reliable contractors who can instantly stop roof leaks. 

All complex problems require aid from a reliable roof restoration company that will help you overcome the trouble and prevent a major catastrophe from happening in the future. 

So start by assessing the problem and its extent. If you’re unsure, get in touch with the expert team for a free roof inspection and additional roofing services. 

And be sure to read about the six simple steps needed to fix the problem and block leakages. 

1. Inspect and Assess the Damage

A thorough roof inspection conducted by a professional contractor is the first step to stopping leaks and preventing water damage to your ceiling and rooms. These essential points help you spot the source of damage:

• Look for piles of leaves and moss on your rooftop.
• Check out your attic; if there’s extra heat in this area, shingles may curl and cause leaks, so be sure to double-check the roof space.
• Spot the cracks and old, broken, or missing roof tiles.

If you have binoculars, you could do a quick assessment from the ground, but it’s always wise to contact roofing experts for a closer look. 

2. Prepare the Damaged Area for Repairs and Apply Roofing Tar

Clearing the area before the roof repairs start is a non-negotiable step. These four points save lots of trouble and unnecessary expenses: 

• Mop all wet surfaces under the leaks
• Place empty canisters to collect the water
• Use a suction hose to secure the floor under the leakage
• Move appliances, furniture, and other household items to preserve them

Once the area is clear and ready for repair, it’s time to apply roofing tar and stop leakages from the inside. It works best when used with plywood which should be pressed against the area with the leak to keep the surface dry. 

3. Use Plastic Roofing Sheets to Keep the Spot Dry

Finding the right covering material that helps control the damage fast is vital when dealing with a leaking roof. And polyethylene plastic is often the best remedy. Learn how to stop roof leaks with its protective composition: 

• Measure the leaking area
• Calculate how much PE plastic you’ll need to cover it
• Use staples to fasten the PE plastic properly to the surface that needs drying
• Nail the plastic to keep it from moving around and letting water in

Finally, it’s always best to use some extra plastic to be entirely sure you’ve covered everything. 

4. Remove Broken Shingles and Install New Ones

Before repairing a leaking roof, your contractors will have a close look at the shingles: 

• See if any shingle is missing, leading to leaks and damage
• Straighten and reattach curled shingles
• Replace broken roof tiles

Finally, professionals will pay close attention to the old shingles that could easily crack from unfavorable weather conditions and install new, strong ones to prevent future roof leaks. 

Then, the crew will follow these steps to place new shingles successfully:

• Break the old shingle’s seal and adjoining seals
• Remove the nails carefully and pull out the damaged roofing material
• Place and reseal the new shingle

5. Fix Smaller Roof Leaks by Sealing the Joints

These five basic steps will stop roof leaks from smaller cavities:

• Pay close attention to any areas where surfaces join
• Dry the target area
• Clean up any debris before applying roofing materials
• Use cement or roof sealant to fill the smaller gaps
• Inspect and fix your chimney and roof ventilation if needed

 

While the sealant works like magic on minor holes and breaches, applying new flashing to major cracks is best. So contact reputable contractors to repair your roof – detecting and fixing small or threatening issues. 

6. Maintain Your Roof and Know How to Stop Roof Leaks from Happening 

Apart from the issues with the roof’s construction that can cause leaks, severe weather also affects your roof’s lifespan. According to statistics, the average temperature in the US has increased by 1.35 degrees Fahrenheit over the last five decades, bringing more heavy rains and hail – and causing more harm to homes. 

So, it’s paramount to learn a thing or two about timely and proper roof maintenance and bring in the experts to secure your home: 

• Spot and fix gaps and cracks regularly
• Have a look at shingles or roof tiles periodically to determine whether they need replacement
• Use the right roofing materials when repairing or reroofing
• Assess your roofline installation’s condition and quality
• Clean your gutters routinely to remove waste and debris and protect your roof

Follow Our Simple Tips and Contacts the Experts

In case of heavy rain, hail damage, or any other devastating occurrence, it’s crucial to talk to someone who knows how to stop roof leaks. And while there are steps you can and should take before the experts arrive to repair the damage, it’s always advisable to rely on a trustworthy service provider. 

You can look at the leakage from the ground or use the ladders to clear the area and remove all waste. But seasoned roofing professionals should straighten, attach, or switch your shingles and take any necessary action to protect your household. 

So choose the best partner, and select from a wide array of services, from inspections to full roof replacement.