Discovering a leak in the roof can feel stressful and overwhelming, but acting fast can save your home from further damage. Water seeping through the roof can ruin ceilings, damage furniture, and even lead to mould growth.
It’s important to know what steps to take once you realize you have leaked. This quick and easy guide will walk through five simple but effective steps to address the issue, limit the damage, and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
1. Contain the Water
The first thing to do when you spot a roof leak is to contain the water as much as possible. Placing buckets, pots, or pans under the dripping water can help prevent the water from damaging your floors or belongings. If you notice the ceiling bulging with water, gently poke a hole to allow it to drain into a container.
Make sure to move furniture or valuables away from the leak to avoid staining, warping, or other water-related issues. Quick action now can save you from having to replace expensive furniture or clean carpets later on.
2. Locate the Source of the Leak
Once the water is under control, the next step is finding the source of the leak. While this can be tricky, especially if the water is travelling along beams or pipes before dripping, it’s an essential part of fixing the problem. Look for obvious signs like missing shingles, damaged flashing, or water stains on walls or ceilings. Checking the attic is also helpful, as water stains and damp insulation can point to the exact location of the leak.
If the leak is hard to find or if there are multiple leaks, contacting damp proofing services or a roofing professional will be a good idea. They can quickly identify the problem and offer the right solution.
3. Perform Temporary Repairs
Before professionals arrive, it’s a good idea to make temporary repairs to minimize damage. You could use a tarp or plastic sheeting to cover the damaged area of the roof and keep more water from entering. Use nails, heavy objects, or duct tape to secure the tarp in place.
While these repairs are only a quick fix, they give you time to schedule professional roof repairs without worrying about the damage getting worse.
4. Contact a Roofing Professional
Once the leak is under control and temporary repairs are in place, it’s time to call a roofing professional. Roofers have the tools, skills, and knowledge needed to safely and efficiently repair your roof.
Make sure to explain what you’ve done so far, where you think the leak is, and the damage you’ve noticed.
5. Check for Additional Damage
Finally, after the leak has been repaired, inspect your home for any other damage. Water can seep into places you didn’t notice right away, so check for signs of mould, damaged insulation, or warped ceilings and walls.
Mould can spread quickly and cause health problems if left untreated, so it’s important to address it as soon as possible.
