How to Fix a Leaking Roof

Is your roof leaking? Whether the issue stems from storm damage, aging materials, or a lack of maintenance, a leaking roof can cause serious harm to your home and belongings.

If you notice or suspect a roof leak, it’s essential to act quickly. Finding and repairing the source of a leak can be challenging, but with the right tools and knowledge, minor leaks can often be fixed by homeowners. However, for extensive damage, hidden leaks, or situations where safety is a concern, it’s best to call a professional roofing contractor.

How to Fix a Roof Leak: 7 Steps to Follow

Follow these steps to address a minor roof leak. If the damage is severe or safety is an issue, contact Reliable Exteriors for professional assistance.

Step 1: Locate the Roof Leak

Start by identifying the source of the leak. Water may travel a considerable distance from the actual leak before it drips down, so look for water stains or discoloration on ceilings and walls. Check your attic for signs of moisture, such as damp insulation or water stains on the decking. Once you locate the leak, mark the spot with tape or a pencil for easy identification later. If you can’t find the source, contact a roofing professional immediately.

Step 2: Cover the Area with a Tarp

After identifying the leak, temporarily cover the affected area with a tarp to prevent further water intrusion. This is a cost-effective way to protect your home while you prepare for repairs or contact Reliable Exteriors for assistance.

Step 3: Gather Materials and Tools

Assemble the necessary materials and tools to fix the leak. The exact items you need will depend on the type of roof and the extent of the damage.

• Safety Gear: Wear gloves and safety goggles. For steep or high roofs, consider hiring a professional who has access to safety harnesses and scaffolding.

• Ladder: Ensure your ladder is secure and positioned correctly. Having someone hold the ladder adds an extra layer of safety.

• Repair Materials: Roofing tape, flashing, replacement shingles, roofing nails, and roofing cement are commonly needed materials.

• Tools: A hammer, utility knife, pry bar, cordless drill, caulking gun, and circular saw may be required for repairs.

Step 4: Clean and Measure the Damaged Area

Remove damaged shingles, flashing, nails, and debris from the affected area using a utility knife or hammer. Clean the surface thoroughly to ensure a smooth repair.

Measure the area that needs repair using a tape measure. This will help you gather the correct amount of replacement materials.

Step 5: Repair or Replace the Damaged Components

For small leaks, roofing cement or sealant may be sufficient. For larger issues, you’ll need to replace damaged shingles or flashing.

• Shingles: Secure new shingles with roofing nails.

• Flashing: Apply roofing cement or sealant to adhere the new flashing and create a watertight seal.

Step 6: Inspect the Roof

Double-check your repair work for gaps or holes that could allow water to enter. Inspect the roof from the ground for visible damage. Use a garden hose to test the area and confirm the repair is effective.

Step 7: Clean Up

Remove leftover materials, such as unused shingles or roofing cement, and clear debris from the roof. Once cleaned, your roof should be restored and ready to protect your home.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Roofer

While many homeowners can handle minor leaks, complex repairs or safety risks are best left to the professionals. Climbing on a roof, especially one that is wet or damaged, can be dangerous. Attempting to fix a leak without the proper tools or experience could worsen the damage or result in injury.

If you’re unable to quickly address the issue or feel unsure about handling it yourself, it’s time to contact Reliable Exteriors for expert assistance.

Contact Reliable Exteriors for Professional Roofing Services

At Reliable Exteriors, we specialize in roofing maintenance, repair, and replacement. With years of experience, our team is committed to delivering high-quality solutions tailored to your needs.

Whether you’re dealing with a minor leak, damaged shingles, or require a full roof replacement, Reliable Exteriors is here to help every step of the way. Reach out to us today for trusted, professional roofing services.