A leaking ceiling cannot be ignored, whether it’s a few occasional drops or a persistent stream of water. When water enters your home, it has already passed through layers of roofing materials, insulation, and other components. Letting the problem go unaddressed means allowing mold to form and roofing material to weaken.
As soon as you notice signs of a leak, look for the source of the water. Patch the hole, absorb as much water as possible, and operate fans in the affected areas. But what does a roof leak look like and how exactly do you patch it until the roofing professionals can step in? Keep reading to find out.
How Do I Detect a Roof Leak?
Because most roofs are not flat, it might be difficult to notice a leak. Couple that with poor visibility, and you will likely find it challenging to narrow down the root of the problem. It’s always best to call your local roofing company as they have the equipment and expertise to locate and repair a leak quickly.
That said, fast action is key to avoiding long-term damage. If your local roofer is unable to provide urgent services, here is how you can carry out a temporary fix, starting with detection:
1. Inspect the Attic
Equip yourself with a flashlight and proceed to the attic. Be cautious, and test the strength of the floor before putting your full weight on it. If you walk between the joists, you may end up putting your foot through to the ceiling of the room below!
After you’ve established your bearings, use the flashlight to inspect the bottom of the roof. Watch out for spots that appear darker than the rest. If it hasn’t rained in a while, wet areas may be difficult to notice. Mold, on the other hand, has a propensity to persist. Therefore, if you come across a patch of mold that thrives on moisture, you’ve probably located the weak area in your roof.
2. Search For Damaged Insulation
The underside of your roof may be covered by insulation, which might aid in the detection of a roof leak. Insulation degrades more obviously and faster than wood. If you see damage to one area of the insulation, keep in mind that the leak may be several feet away from either side due to the redirected rainfall from the leak source.
How Do I Repair Damage Caused by a Roof Leak?
Fixing a leaky roof can range from applying a small amount of roof cement to removing damaged shingles and replacing insulation. The best long-term solution is to contact your local roofing contractor and allow them to take over. If it’s just a simple leak that you’d like to put a temporary band-aid on, start by determining how big the problem is. A small crack in the ceiling can be sealed with roof cement and silicone-based caulk. You can then use a wet-dry vac and fans to remove moisture from the area.
Will Insurance Cover the Repairs of a Leaky Roof?
Depending on the source of the leak and the terms of your coverage, you may be able to file an insurance claim for the repair. Was the damage caused by a storm or another occurrence, or was it the result of natural wear and tear? Is the cost of repairing the leak $5,000 or higher? If the accident was costly, speak to your insurance representative and file a claim. Otherwise, speak with your roofing specialist about possible special financing or payment options.
Conclusion
The best advice for avoiding water damage from a leaky roof is to periodically maintain the condition of your roof and the surrounding regions of your house. A skilled roofing contractor may examine the roof’s condition and repair missing shingles, warping, corrosion, or any other concern to prevent roof leaks.
Get professionals to make that leak fixed right away! 5 Star Roofing & Restoration, LLC is one of the leading roof contractors in Birmingham and Brentwood. Email or call us today to get a free roof inspection!