Leaky Roof? Here’s What You Should Do

Consistent exposure to the sun, rain, wind, trees, and debris accelerates roof wear and tear, leading to leaks that can damage the inside of your home. These leaks, if left unchecked, can silently seep through your walls, damaging everything in their path. This underscores the critical need for proactive roof maintenance, a responsibility that should not be overlooked. 

This article discusses what to do after discovering your leaky roof. It covers all the essential aspects of dealing with what can be a severe issue. 

The Best Ways to Deal with a Leaky Roof

Find the Source of the Leak

The first step is to find where the leak originated when you have clear and dry weather to ensure more moisture doesn’t get in. Do not climb on your roof if you’re afraid of heights or inexperienced with roofing. 

It’s crucial to have professional roofing contractors visit your home for a roof leak inspection. Their expertise will provide you with a thorough assessment of the roof damage, usually by blister or buckling shingles, and guide you on the most effective next steps. 

Deal with the Immediate Damage

The first thing you need to do is turn off the electricity around the leak to prevent water damage to appliances, wires, or furniture. Moisture might seem harmless, but it causes mold, seepage, and short circuits, all of which extensively damage your home. It is essential to turn off the power, or the risk of damage rises exponentially. 

Assess the Extent of Damage

Knowing how deep the damage runs is essential before getting roof repairs or replacements. Roofs can be replaced if they are surface-level and have a few damaged shingles. However, if the leak has penetrated through the attic and seeped into the walls, you have a severe issue.

Most roof leak damage is invisible to the untrained eye, who might brush it off as a dirty wall or ‘nothing serious.’ To nip the problem in the bud, hiring professional roofers to assess the damage is crucial. They can quote a solution and get to work fixing it, reassuring you that experts are handling the issue. Remember, roof maintenance should not be attempted if you’re inexperienced because one wrong move can damage the roof and injure you. 

Find Good Professional Roofers

A leaky roof cannot be fixed with at-home remedies; it needs professional intervention by roofing contractors. A roofing contractor has experience with roof maintenance, repairs, replacements, and everything else related to the roof. 

Before signing up:

• Review your homeowner’s insurance to check whether it covers roof leak repairs.
• Photograph and document all relevant information when filing your insurance claim and starting with work.
• Get quotes from roofing contractors and evaluate which works best for you.
• Look for ones with years of experience and clear communication. 

Here’s how to find the best roofing contractors:

• Consider local options because they are familiar with building codes and suitable materials for your climate.
• Speak with friends, family, colleagues, or neighbors who had roofing work done recently.
• Look for high-rated roofing contractors on Google and with the Better Business Bureau. 
• Work with roofing contractors that have valid licenses for roofing and liability insurance (in case there is a mishap on the job)

Don’t Neglect Roof Leaks!

A leaky roof is incredibly inconvenient and can damage your entire home. However, roof leaks can be fixed, and your roof can return to prime shape. When you find a roof leak, start by finding the source of the leak and begin working on closing it. 

After turning off power around the area where the leak is, it’s important to assess how much damage the leak has already done. This proactive step will help you understand the extent of the issue and take necessary actions. Once done, get in touch with professional roofing contractors.