Roof leaks cause a noticeable amount of dread and anxiety, and with good reasons. Home and business owners alike need proper protection from leaks. Neglecting a leak can be a recipe for disaster. It’s always best to take immediate action. In what follows, we will walk you through what to do when you suspect you have a leak.
Finding and Containing the Leak
Visible bulges and stains in your walls or ceilings almost always indicate the presence of a leak. Before serious repairs can take place, you’ll first have to wait for any inclement weather to abate. Until then, here are some things you can do to stem the leak.
Use a container such as a bucket or waste paper bin to capture dripping water. If you want to avoid unwanted dripping sounds, you can place a board inside the container that is catching the leaking water. Water striking against wood does not produce the distressing noise we typically associate with a leak.
Next, you can use a screwdriver or pick to punch a small hole in the ceiling area that is bulging. This measure helps to control the leak by allowing the water to flow more steadily, keep the damage from spreading or collapsing part of your ceiling.
For the exterior, you can use a tarp if you know the source of the leak. Be sure to use caution when mounting your roof, especially during severe weather and high winds. If you’re not entirely comfortable, contact a professional, which you will likely have to do later on.
Most contractors are capable and willing to perform emergency roof work. Diagnosing a leak can be challenging. Professionals can properly inspect both the interior and exterior of your home or business.
If you do have a leak, it is very likely that others will soon appear. For this reason, professionals are your best option.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Fix A Leak
You don’t want to delay in addressing a leak. They don’t go away on their own, and they always spread. If you notice a bulge or stain in your walls or ceilings, check immediately. You should probably expect there to be more damage than you’re aware of. It’s best to check your roof at least twice a year, especially during a change in season. Inspecting the inside of your home as well as the exterior is the best practice.
What to Look For Inside
- Staining or dark spots
- Wherever outside light comes through
- Sagging and bulging ceilings
What to Look For Outside
- Shingles or tiles that look rotted, warped, blistered, missing, buckling or blistering
- Check your gutters and downpipes to see if they are clogged.
- If you’ve noticed your gutters aren’t draining as fast as before, they may be clogged, which can lead to leaks
- Check your vents and chimneys for debris where moisture can accumulate
- Also, check for loose materials around the chimney and vents
The Bottom Line
Leaks typically mean a system problem. The longer you wait, the more expensive they become. Regular inspection, and discussing your situation with roofing contractors, are your best weapons in saving money otherwise spent on expensive roof work. In many cases, a roof restoration will fix any leaks and give your roof a new lease on life.