A leaking roof during a storm can cause significant damage to your home, and the longer you wait to address the issue, the worse it may become. But don’t panic. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can minimize this damage and protect your home.
This blog will give you a step-by-step guide on what to do if your roof leaks during a storm. Identifying the source of the leak, making temporary fixes, and preventing future leaks, you can do it all yourself! Don’t let a leaking roof ruin your peace of mind. Read on to learn how you can take control of the situation.
Identify The Source Of The Leak
Identifying the source of a leak during a storm can be difficult, but there are a few steps you can take to locate the source. One way to find the source of a leak is by inspecting the attic or the area above a room where a leak is occurring. Look for signs of water damage, such as water stains or mold growth on ceilings or walls. If you cannot access the attic, try to locate the source of the leak by looking for water stains or moisture on the ceiling or walls in the room below the leak.
Another way to locate the source of a leak is by visually inspecting the roof during a dry day. Look for any missing, cracked, or damaged shingles or any other signs of damage, such as missing flashing or damaged vent pipes. If you can’t safely access the roof, you should hire a professional to inspect.
It’s important to note that during a storm, it may be difficult to determine the source of a leak due to heavy rain, wind, and darkness. In such cases, it is best to call a professional to help identify the source of the leak and make any necessary repairs as soon as possible.
Temporary Fixes
Temporary fixes can be a great aid when a storm blows outside. Take the quick steps below to prevent further damage to a roof.
Stay Safe
Ensuring your safety during a storm should be the top priority, so it’s better for you to wait for the storm to pass first before inspecting your roof for damage or repairing any damage.
Since a roof leak can leave you with wet surfaces and cause you to slip, ensure you have rubber-soled shoes on before attempting to inspect and locate roof damage. In addition, you should wear any other protective clothing that a professional contractor would wear, such as a long-sleeved shirt and pants.
Place A Bucket Or Container Under The Leak
Once you’ve identified the leak source through visual inspection or the methods mentioned above, you can place a bucket or a container beneath it to help protect your home from further water damage. This is particularly helpful during an emergency situation, and later, when the rain stops and the cloud separates, you can call a professional for a roof repair.
Use A Tarp Or Plastic Sheet
Another step to prevent roof damage is to cover portions of the roof where leaks or water damage occur. This will include placing a ladder on a stable surface and climbing on the roof with a plastic sheet or tarp. It requires covering the area near roof leaks with roof nails. Using a tarp or plastic sheet will ensure roofing materials remain intact and do not take on further damage.
Protect The Interior Of Your Home
When it is raining outside, and you have a roof leak, ensure you have protected the interior ceilings and walls of your home from getting wet. To prevent further damage, you can apply a roof sealant, which seals the small gaps, cracks, and leaks. In addition, roof sealant can protect your roof from the consequences of water damage, such as the growth of mold and mildew on the interior of a home.
However, it is worth noting that these all are temporary fixes. For a permanent and reliable roof repair, you need to call roofing professionals you can trust.
Take Photos For Insurance Documentation
If your roof is severely damaged, or the shingles on the roof have blown up with the wind, you should take photos as documentation to show your insurance company. Additionally, if your home interior or property becomes damaged because of a leaking roof, send these photos as well. Depending on your coverage, they may be able to cover the cost of a roof repair and replace any damaged items.
For further reading, you can read our blog on HOW TO HANDLE ROOF STORM DAMAGE
Call A Professional
It is important to call a professional for leaky roofs caused by a storm for several reasons:
Safety: A leaky roof can be dangerous, especially during a storm. Professionals are trained and experienced to work on roofs and have the proper safety equipment and knowledge to do the job safely.
Expertise: A professional roofing contractor has the expertise and experience necessary to diagnose and repair a leaky roof properly. They will be able to identify the source of the leak and make the necessary repairs to prevent future leaks from happening.
Damage Assessment: A professional roofing contractor will be able to assess the extent of the damage on your roof and determine if it requires just a simple repair or a complete roof replacement.
Warranty: Professional roofing contractors often offer a warranty on their work, which provides you peace of mind knowing that your roof is protected.
Saves Time: A professional roofing contractor can fix a leak quickly and efficiently, saving you time and hassle.
Proper Equipment: Professional roofing contractors have the appropriate equipment and tools to make a repair. This ensures the repair is done correctly and lasts longer than a DIY job.
Prevention
Regular maintenance and upkeep minimize the level of damage to your roof and the interior of a home by keeping your roof in good shape.
Here are some steps you can take to maintain your roof properly.
Clear Debris: Clear debris, such as leaves and branches, from your roof and gutters to prevent clogs and damage.
Seal Around Penetrations: Seal around penetrations in the roof, such as around vents and pipes, to prevent water from seeping through and entering your interior.
Check Flashing: Check the flashing on your roof, which is the metal that is used to seal around anywhere the roof meets a wall or chimney. Check for corrosion, uplift, and general wear and
tear, so you can have it repaired if needed.
Taking these preventative steps can help protect your roof from leaks during a storm and minimize damage to your home.
Do You Have A Leaky Roof?
If your roof leaks in heavy rain or a strong storm pass by, you can try to fix it yourself, but it’s best to call someone experienced with roof leaks and water damage.
If your roof leaks in Minneapolis, Minnesota, or the surrounding area, you should contact Clear Cut Xteriors LLC today. Our company has an empathic and skilled team trained to understand and resolve roofing issues, no matter how complex they are. We are committed to going the extra mile for our customers and want to help you!
If you need a roof repair, a replacement, or even just an inspection, call us today at ((651)-340-3410 for an expert’s guidance.
