Your roof is one of the most critical parts of your home, and if it starts to leak, it can cause serious damage. Unfortunately, at some point, your roof is going to leak. No matter how well it’s constructed or how often you maintain it, there will come a time when water finds its way through the shingles and into your home.
What to Do When Roof Starts to Leak
When this happens, it’s crucial to take quick action to mitigate the damage and prevent further leaks. To help you out, here are some key things to do if your roof is leaking:
- Move Things Away: If you have any furniture or other belongings in the room with the leak, move them out of the way. That includes anything water could damage, such as electronics, paintings, and important documents. Doing this step first will help to prevent further damage to your belongings and make it easier to repair the leak.
- Identify the Source of the Leak: To repair the leak, you need first to identify where it is coming from. It can be tricky, especially if the leak is small. Once you have found the source of the leak, you can then begin to repair the damage. If you cannot find the source of the leak, or if the leak is too large to fix, you should call a professional roofing contractor. They will be able to repair or replace your roof, depending on the extent of the damage.
- Contain the Water: While waiting for the roofing contractor, you should try to contain the water as much as possible. You can put a bucket or other container under the leak to catch the water. It would be best if you also tried to avoid using any areas of your home directly beneath the leak, as this can cause further damage.
- Repair the Damage: Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to simply patch the area with a waterproof sealant, or you may need to replace the damaged section of the roofing. If the damage is extensive, you may need to consult a professional roofer to ensure the repair is done properly.
- Replace Damaged Roofing Materials: If the damage to your roof is extensive, you may need to replace some of the roofing materials. That includes both the shingles and the underlayment. If you are not sure how to do this, you should consult with a professional roofer.
- Inspect the Rest of Your Roof: Once you have repaired the damage from the leak, you should inspect the rest of your roof to ensure there is no other damage. It is especially important if a problem with the roofing materials caused the leak. If you find any other damage, you should repair it as soon as possible to prevent further leaks.
- Take Photos for the Insurance: Make sure to document everything. Doing so will help your insurance company determine if the damage is covered.
Conclusion
It’s never a good feeling when you realize your roof is leaking. Not only is it a sign that your roof requires some repair, but it can also lead to further damage to your home if left unchecked. If you find yourself in this situation, you can follow the tips above to minimize the damage and get your roof fixed as soon as possible. If you think you need help, it is best to call a professional to take a look.
Over The Top Roofing & Restoration provides roofing services for both residences and businesses in the Springfield area. We specialize in roof installation, upgrades, and repair and can also provide roof inspection. Contact us today to see how we can help you with your roofing needs.
