First, do not go on the roof in the rain. Everything useful you can do during a storm is done from inside: put a bucket under the drip, move furniture and electronics, and if the ceiling is bulging pierce the low point with a screwdriver so the water comes out where you choose rather than bringing the plasterboard down. Then find out where it is really coming from – which is almost never directly above the stain. These seven steps are what to do tonight, and what to have done afterwards.
Identify the Leak Source
To effectively handle a leak, first determine the entry point of the water. Although it might definitely sound like a leak, sometimes it happens due to other problems like blocked gutters, pest damage, or compromised HVAC systems. Examine the tiles and drywall for misalignment or damage, which often indicates typical leak spots. Once you identify the leak source, you can temporarily fix it with a few simple steps.
Prepare the Area
Once you locate the leak, clear the space beneath it to prevent moisture accumulation. Dry the area with a mop, set up buckets to catch dripping water (like we always do), and use a suction hose if the leak is through an upper floor. Move or cover furniture and electronics to prevent further water damage.
Apply Roofing Tar
For a temporary fix from the inside, consider using roofing tar, especially effective on removable tiles. Remove the affected tiles, apply the tar directly to the inner roof, and reinforce the patch with a piece of shingle or plywood to ensure it stays in place. This is obviously a temporary precaution that should prevent water getting inside your building, but after the rain it must be treated immediately by an expert roofer to ensure that the integrity of your structure is safe and it will not happen again.
Use PE Plastic for Hidden Leaking Spots
If the leak’s source is elusive, cover the area with polyethylene (PE) plastic. This thick plastic sheeting should extend a few feet beyond the affected area to prevent further leakage. It is best to use especially when you can’t find the leaking source, or when it keeps leaking even after you have sealed the visible leaking source. Secure it with staples and nails to withstand the weather until a permanent repair can be made.
Replace Damaged Shingles
Damaged shingles are a common cause of leaks and it’s the first thing that comes to mind when a roof starts to leak. If that’s the case, safely remove the worn shingles using proper tools and protective gear. Install new shingles using nails and seal them with roofing tar to prevent future leaks. If you can’t replace the shingles, try reinforcing the area with a covering material and call a roofing expert for a permanent repair.
Deploy Tarpaulins
In anticipation of a storm, covering the roof with tarpaulins can provide a quick, temporary leak prevention. A tarpaulin is a flexible and water-resistant material that provides excellent coverage during heavy rain. When you are expecting a storm, make sure to extend the tarp over the ridge and keep it in place with heavy stones or concrete blocks.
Seal Roof Joints
Leaks often occur at joints where different roof parts meet, such as around chimneys or in valleys. Ensure these areas are dry and clear of debris, then apply a roof sealant or cement to close any gaps. For a temporary precaution you can also apply tarp or another covering material along the joints.
Additional Tips: Although these tips can help you deal with unexpected leaking issues, it is always important to take early precautions in order to keep your roof in shape and have a piece of mind when the storm hits. Here are some additional tips on keeping your roof safe:
Regular Maintenance
Regularly inspect your roof for signs of wear or damage. Catching and addressing minor issues early can prevent serious leaks and extend the life of your roof.
Improve Drainage
Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clean and free of debris to improve water drainage from your roof. Poor drainage can lead to water accumulation and increased risk of leaks.
Check Insulation and Ventilation
Proper insulation and ventilation in your attic can prevent heat and moisture buildup that might otherwise compromise your roof’s integrity and lead to leaks.
Stop a Roof Leak Tonight: Call 973-960-7921
If it is leaking now, 973-960-7921 is answered 24 hours a day, every day, from Rockaway and Flanders. We find where the water is getting in – the commonest culprits are step flashing at a wall, the chimney counter flashing, a split pipe boot and a blocked valley, not the field of the roof – make it dry, then quote the permanent roof repair in writing. Boundless GC LLC has roofed New Jersey homes since 2012 and holds New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor registration #13VH10877700, which anyone can look up on the state licence register. We are a GAF Certified Contractor and an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, BBB Accredited with an A+ rating, and carry general liability insurance at $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate; the certificate goes out before work starts if you ask for it.
Conclusion
Once the rain stops, the job is to find the cause rather than patch the symptom. Clear the gutters, check the valleys and the flashing at every wall and chimney, and look in the attic with a torch for a wet rafter uphill of the stain. If you would rather someone else did it, a roof inspection covers all of that and gutter cleaning is usually the other half of the answer.
