Five Tips for Repairing a Leaking Roof

Are you attempting to do a roof leak repair but you are not sure where to start? Then the following tips for repairing a leaking roof can help. The important thing is to find that leak and fix it as soon as possible, or it may result in further damage costing you more.

#1 Start With a Detailed Inspection

hole in roof shinglesFinding a roof leak is difficult compared to a roof leak repair. As the leak progresses, it causes wet stains extending from the ceiling to down the walls. For this reason, you need good leak detection to fix the problem. You can do this yourself or hire a professional roofer.

To find leaks, inspect the exterior roof as well as the interior. Think about where the water could be passing through from loose nails, tiles, and openings between the hardwood, cracks, gaps, and more. Lastly, observe the walls and ceilings for watermarks to help source it from there.

Alternatively, if the roof is dry, climb the rooftop to check the roof, letting measurements for overhanging on the boundary.

#2 Curled Shingles

Once determining the cause of the leak, for example, a curled shingle, you can re-secure it by using a coat of asphalt roofing cement. Or you can find an equivalent product to use with a caulk gun. Apply a generous amount of adhesive on the underside of the shingle to ensure the corners are secured. Press firmly to help it set. If the shingles are damaged, have them replaced.

#3 Fixing the Flashing

Another tip for repairing a leaking roof is when the cause is the flashing. You find this present around the dormers and chimneys. All you need to do is reseal the joints with roofing cement. If the joints are damaged and previously sealed, apply a fresh coat using a putty knife. Where needed, replace the shingles or call a professional roofer to inspect the roof if it lifts off.

#4 Minor Roof Repairs

While calling in a professional for a roof leak repair is your best option, you can fix it yourself. However, make sure when you get on the roof, you are wearing rubber sole shoes for traction. Always make sure you are safe and secure when on the roof.

#5 Total Reroofing

If you find the damage to the roof is widespread or the roof’s reaching its time limit, it may be better to call a roofer for the roof leak repair. They will inspect the roof and decide if it only needs a repair or reroofing. If it is reroofing, the whole roof needs stripping of old shingles before applying the new ones. Furthermore, if you decide to do it yourself, it helps to layer one set of shingles over the old ones to create two layers. But if there are two layers present, take it all the way down to your roof deck.

Keep Your Roof in Good Condition

Once problems arise, you can take care of a roof leak repair before it becomes a significant problem. You can go the DIY roof leak repair way, or you can call in a professional roofer like Vanity Roofing to take care of the problem. The important thing is to get it repaired sooner than later.

Posted in

Leave a Comment