Leaking Roof! (What To Do Until The Roofing Professionals Arrive?)

Roof emergencies can happen anytime. And it may take a while for roofing professionals to get there. In such a situation, it becomes crucial to contain the roof leak to avoid further damage.

The best way to stop a leak temporarily before the roofing professionals get there is to apply a trap on the leaking area. Or patch it with roofing cement. You can place a bucket under it to collect water if it’s still dripping.

Make sure the water does not come in contact with the wiring or the switchboards. Also, cover the furniture nearby the leak if it’s difficult to stop.

In this article, you will learn how to manage an emergency roof leak systematically and effectively until professional roofers arrive.

Emergency Roof Repair Tips You May Need Before The Roofing Professionals Arrive.

Step 1: Apply Tarp to The Leaking Area.

If your roof starts unexpectedly leaking, first cover the leaking area with a plastic trap. Also, cover the furniture below and around the leaking area.

This will keep the excess water away and protect your belongings from water damage.

All you need is a large enough trap and some waterproof tape. Cover not only the damaged area but also it’s surrounding. As water may find new ways to get in.

Mind your safety first. Do not get on your roof if it’s too risky. Instead, just shift your things to a safe location or cover them.

Take extra care of the electric equipment in the house. To meddle with electric switches or other electric wiring if you are unable to contain the leaking water.

Step 2: Other Temporary Ways to Fix the Damage 

Don’t have a tarp? No worries, here’s another solution till the roofing professional arrives.

You can patch the damaged section with roofing cement. This cement is easily available in any hardware store.

All you have to do is remove the debris from the affected area and fill it with roofing cement. It puts the leakage to an immediate stop!

It may take a while to dry, but if your roofers aren’t available for an emergency call. This technique might save the day. You can also use caulk or silicone to halt the leakage.

Though, this method is not recommended for some types of roofs. It’s still a good way to stop the leak and prevent the problem from escalating.

You can do this yourself, but be cautious and access the condition of the entire roof before getting up there. Also, this method is not recommended if it’s raining or snowing.

Step 3: Contact A Reliable Roofer.

Immediately after covering up the leak, call a roofing professional.

You may have a temporary fix for your leaking roof, but it’s advisable to get it permanently handled. A roofer will do the needed repairs.

As a professional in this industry, I can assure you that hiring a professional to take a look at your roof is in the best interest of your property and safety.

I have seen my fair share of poorly done roof repairs by homeowners themselves. This sort of DIY work will damage your roof in the long run and reduce its lifespan.

Occasionally, it even gives rise to new roofing issues. A dependable and genuine roofer is all you need in the time of a roofing emergency.  

Step 4: Try to Document the Overall Damage.

Now that the leak is temporarily handled and help is on the way, try to assess the overall damage.

This will help you point out the damaged areas/parts to the roofers. Which may save them some time. Also, this is good practice if you are going to file an insurance claim.

Documenting the leak damage as much as possible. If it’s safe, take a flashlight and look closer. Click photos and take notes of the broken or missing parts.

Also, documenting the undergoing maintenance, it’s just good practice when it comes to settling insurance claims.

Step 5: Let the Professionals Tackle the Big Stuff. 

All the above methods combined with some temporary DIY roofing repairs are all you are advised to do.

It is important to distinguish between the small and temporary repairs you can do yourself and the big roofing repairs you need a professional for.

While you can fix minor damage by replacing the caulk or tarping, professional help is still needed. These minor damages over time can cause serious harm to your roof and your family.

Moreover, a roof inspection by professionals can detect problems you were unable to locate and document by yourself. Hence, professional help is needed.

Step 6: Get in Touch with Your Insurance Provider.

Emergency roof repairs often lead to a string of other roofing repairs, which may leave a hole in your pocket. Contact your insurance provider and inform them about the damage.

Your insurance provider may want to access the damage before you file the claim. So, it’s crucial to contact them as soon as possible so they can see the state of your roof before it’s repaired by the roofing professionals.

This will help in a faster insurance claim process. If you need to know more about roofing insurance and the process of filing the claim, you can get the necessary information here!

Common Reasons for Roofing Emergencies.

Now that you know how to handle an emergency. Let’s look at some of the common factors causing accidental roof leaks that may need the assistance of roofing professionals. 

Animals.

Our little friends may seem harmless. But they can cause some serious damage if they infiltrate your roofing system.

Little birds, Squirrels, bats, rodents, and some small animals often take shelter in your roof’s attic, vents, and other parts of the roofing system.

This may not be hazardous right away. However, over time destroy your roof part by part. Small animals especially, rats chew away the protective layers of your roof which can later cause roof leakage.

Bird droppings are acidic and decay the shingles. Birds can also carve small holes in your roof, which may again lead to leaks.

Also, don’t ignore beehives as they can be pretty heavy, often leading to a roof breakthrough.

Weather.

Weather!

Not much needs to be said about this roofing hazard. If you are a homeowner, you know what a few hours of heavy rain, a few inches of snow, or a hail storm can do to your roof.

Even wind can cause a significant amount of damage. The flora surrounding your house needs to be trimmed and kept at a safe distance from your roof at all times.

Fires.

Fires often lead to leaks. As it burns layer after layer of your roof. With no insulation and a missing roof, layer leaks are bound to occur.

A thorough roof repair or roof replacement is the only two options you have in case of fire damage,

Conclusion.

I hope this article has offered you the proper directions to handle an emergency roof leakage before the roofing professionals get there.

However, if you need someone to take a professional look at your roof contact us anytime.

Leak Stop is a one-stop destination to meet your roofing-related requirements. We offer roof repair, replacement, maintenance, and inspection services all over GVRD (Greater Vancouver Regional District).

We offer a free inspection to first-time clients. Connect with us TODAY at 1 866 777 0084 for more details and an immediate assistance!