Helpful Roof Leak Repair Tips

Best Practices For Fixing A Leaking Roof

If you suspect you may have a leak in your roof, you should take action as quickly as possible. It is essential, as a leaking roof can quickly cause more unnecessary damage if you don’t take care of the problem promptly. Although this issue is a very common one, the damages that can occur due to water intrusion include damage to the ceiling, additional damage to the roof decking, damage to the structural components of the home, or mold infestation. If you decide you want to fix the roof yourself and take the chore into your own hands, you first have to find out where the water is coming into the home.

Finding The Source of The Roof Leak

First, using a pair of binoculars, take a look all around your house. When inspecting the roof, take note of every little detail. If you see any tears, cracks, or even rot, there is a good chance these are signs of where the source of the leak is located. Once you have discovered these areas, mark them by placing a heavy object over them. Then, also look for any other signs of deterioration once on the roof, making sure to be extra cautious and use flat, rubber-soled shoes for added safety. Also, make sure to check any flashings, around vents, chimneys and skylights for any cracked seals, missing caulk or gaps. When looking for roof leaks, you also want to check inside of your attic. There, you should look for any water stains. If you find any, follow the trail of the stain to find out where the leak originated. Once you found the beginning, hammer a nail upwards through the leak spot, so that you can find the same spot when back on the roof.

Roof Leak Repair Instructions

Once you have found all of the damaged spots, you can begin the roof leak repair process. First, you want to make sure that the areas you need to repair are dry. It is important that the location is dry while fixing the leak, as well as afterward. So, be sure to check the weather forecast ahead of time before doing any type of roofing. Then, you want to clean the area surrounding the leaky spot and dry the area with a towel. Next, use a flat trowel (which can be purchased from a hardware supply store or Home Depot) fill the crack or hole with plastic roofing cement completely so that it is watertight. After you have filled the hole or crack, use the flat trowel to make sure the plastic cement is flat, and while it is still wet, lay a single piece of fiberglass fabric on top of it. Then, cover that layer with an additional layer of roofing cement for added strength, and flatten that layer with the flat trowel, as well. You should then make sure this layer is even with the level of the roof. To test your roof leak repair, spray the area with a sprinkler after it has been dried. If no water seeps through the area, your repair job is complete.

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