How to Fix a Roof Leak

Sometimes your roof is just going to leak. It’s because you didn’t catch a crack or tear when you repaired the roof before. Sometimes it’s an all-around poor job – just like the kind you would do for a few cases of beer.

In that case, you either don’t come home or wind up living in the shower. Other times, it’s as simple as needing to fix a roof leak.

Leaks come from many places, so we’re going to cover some of the fundamental ways to stop a leak. Read on!

Locate the Leak

Locating the source of a leaky roof can be tricky, but the steps to do so are relatively simple. The first step is to inspect the attic and look for any water stains on the wood beams, insulation, and sheathing.

Once the source of the water stains is found, one can move outside to the roof and locate the exact spot of the roof leak. Here, one should inspect both the roof and the flashing for any damage, such as punctures, cracks, or rusted nails. If needed, one can use a garden hose to identify the exact spot of the leak by spraying water against the roof at various points.

Repair Any Damaged Shingles or Flashing

If a damaged shingle is the source of the leak, it should be replaced as soon as possible. To replace a damaged shingle, use a utility knife to cut the nails around the shingle and remove it. Then install the new shingle, secure it with roofing nails, and seal around the nails with roofing sealant.

If the leak is caused by faulty flashing, you will need to remove the old flashing and replace it with a new piece. Cut away the old, leaking flashing with a pair of snips, and then fit the new flashing into place. Secure the new flashing with caulk and roofing nails, and then seal the edges with roofing sealant.

Seal Any Gaps or Cracks

If you notice any gaps or cracks, use a brush or broom to clean away any debris that may be blocking the area. For larger gaps, such as those found around chimneys and vents, use a caulking gun to seal off the gap. This should be able to hold off moisture from entering and cause the leak to stop.

For smaller cracks, use a patch kit that includes a petroleum-based flex sealant to quickly fix the issue. Lastly, inspect the area for moisture by spraying the sealant with a hose.

Consider Hiring a Professional

If you need roof repair, it’s important to consider hiring a professional to fix it. This is the safest and most secure option for ensuring a successful task. Before hiring a professional, be sure to get a written contract including the materials they’ll use, costs and payment plan, and a warranty.

A professional roofer should be able to detect and fix the cause of the leak and seal it to prevent future leaks. Working with a professional roofer is the best way to address roof leaks in a timely and reliable manner.

Fix a Roof Leak Today

Your home is your castle, and fixing a roof leak is an important part of taking good care of it. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to repair a problem quickly.

Investing in your property will pay off in the long run!

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