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How To Handle A Roof Leak

Finding a roof leak can be like looking for a needle in a haystack. Sometimes there are absolutely no tell-tale signs that a leak is going on, at least to an untrained eye.

If you are lucky enough to see signs, you will have to handle the roof leak. Unfortunately, a heavy leak can cause a significant problem until it gets repaired and even tiny leaks can cause mold, mildew, and rotting problems.

Knowing how to handle roof repairs can give you peace of mind, especially if storm damage is involved. Take a look at these few tips on how to handle a roof leak. With any luck at all, it will be something simple.

Check Your Gutters If The Roof Is Leaking Near An Outside Wall

A roof can leak because gutter debris is pooling water near the roof. Be sure to clear the gutters and keep them debris free.

You can install leaf guards to minimize this maintenance as well as protect the roof from future gutter buildup. If they need repairs, get them done.

Check For Roof Debris Buildup

Tree limbs, twigs, and leaves will accumulate in certain areas of the roof. This causes water to pond in the area. Even a tiny missing shingle nail can cause a roof leak in this area. If you have a lot of roof debris problems, hire a exterior service professional to keep it clean.

Check For Ceiling Stains

If none of the suggestions above solved the roof leak problem, there is probably roof damage. However, ceiling stains can be caused by plumbing leaks. If you have an attic or crawl space above the ceiling, check the space for wet insulation and damp wood in the area above the leak.

Keep in mind that one single instance of water pooling in the attic can look like several roof leaks. If the ceiling stain is located underneath a second story floor, it’s likely the plumbing.

How To Handle Roof Repairs After Storm or Hail Damage

Your homeowner’s hazard insurance should cover any unexpected roof damage from hail or wind storms. If you think your insurance company may pay a roof repair claim, you should get them involved. Don’t make the mistake of handling the roof repair by waiting or they may not honor a future claim.

When you call them, report the damage. They will send an insurance inspector to assess the damage and the necessary roof repairs. Also, call local roofing contractors to get three estimates. The contractor should do an inspection and provide a detailed written report for the insurance claim.

Temporary Roof Repairs

If you call a local roofing contractor who provides emergency roof repairs, they should be willing to cover your roof temporarily until full repairs can be made. While some may be willing, it’s hard to schedule even temporary repairs when storm damage is affecting everyone in the area. We are all needed at this time but most will come to protect your roof as soon as possible.