We all know how inconvenient leaks can be, especially when they’re unexpected. Your roof is your first line of defense against the natural elements, but water and snow can easily find their way into small crevices and cause major problems. It is important that you assess the situation as soon as you spot a leak in order to prevent further damage to both your roof and the interior of your home.
In the event that you find yourself with a leaking roof, here are a few tips on what to do to minimize the potential damage:
1. Move Things Out Of The Way
When dealing with a leaking roof, the last thing you’d want to worry about is your belongings getting damaged. It is best advised to move any furniture, clothing, etc as soon as you spot the leak if water is getting onto any of these items. Certain fabrics are prone to mold and mildew in a quick time frame, so you'll want to make sure the area is cleared!
2. Contain The Water
Once you have cleared the surrounding area underneath the leak, you’ll want to grab a bucket or any similar object that will be able to hold the water until the leak is repaired. Sitting water that is not contained can damage your floors and cause further problems.
3. Relieve Water Pressure
One sign that water may be collecting in a certain area may be a sagging ceiling. This can look like a pocket of water underneath the paint, which can eventually spread and cause further damage. Although it may sound like a negative idea, many companies specializing in leak repairs advise you to puncture a hole into the lowest part of the pocket and collect the water in a bucket. If you do not relieve the water pressure in your ceiling, the pocket may eventually burst, creating a larger and costly mess.
4. Tarp The Roof
In the event that you have to wait multiple days in order to get a repair, it is advised to place a tarp on your roof over the area that is leaking. This will actively aim to prevent any further water intake and will prevent your roofing from becoming further damaged. Tarps can be highly effective if placed correctly.
5. Take Photos
It is highly recommended that you take as many photos as you can of the leak and any items damaged due to it, as these photos will come in handy when dealing with insurance and/or any companies you hire to repair the leak. Photos can make it easier for the contractor to scope out the issues and come up with a quick solution.
6. Call A Professional
Although you may be able to fix small leaks on your own, many professionals may be able to see further damage that isn’t easily recognizable. Here at Elite, we specialize in Thermal Imaging, which allows us to see different temperature points within your walls and ceilings. Varying temperatures shown on the Thermal Camera provide ample information on where the water may be sitting and/or traveling to, which allows us to quickly assess and correct any issues.
7. Maintain Your Regular Roof Maintenance
By regularly maintaining and cleaning your roof, you are significantly less likely to run into any problems that require costly repairs. Regular roof maintenance includes removal of overgrowth/greenery, unclogging/clearing out gutters for proper water drainage, and/or inspecting the area for any damages to your shingles or other parts. Harsh weather can erode your roof over time and cause major damage if left unkept.
Dangers Of A Leaking Roof
Mold: When water becomes trapped within the layers of your roof, mold and mildew can become a major issue. Mold can lead to damage not only to your roof, but to the foundation of your house, your walls, and/or ceiling. Mold and Mildew can also be extremely harmful to your health, so this is something you definitely want to avoid.
Fire & Electrocution Hazards: Traveling water has the potential to reach your home's electrical wiring which can cause fires. Once water touches these wires, it can cause the circuits to short and spark, which can not only create fires but puts you at risk of getting electrocuted.
High Electricity Costs: When water enters your roof, it may damage your home's insulation system which can cause your home to lose the ability to retain its heat. If this is the case, you can expect to see a noticeable difference in your utility bills.
If you have a leaking roof within the Hudson County area, and want a professional's opinion and/or help, give us a call at (201)436-1011 to schedule your FREE estimate! We understand the stress of unexpected repairs and damages, which is why we aim to quickly assess and repair the problem areas in order to get your home back to its best shape! Visit our blog on our website, https://www.eliteroofingincnj.com/ , to check out other articles on how to maintain your roof.
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