Is your roof leaking? In the event of heavy rain, a leaking roof isn’t something you can ignore.

Everyone is susceptible to roof leaks, but it is imperative that you deal with them as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your home. In this article, we take a look at the steps to take that will help to reduce the damage and what to do to fix your leaking roof on a more permanent basis. Below are some of the most common reasons for a leaking roof:

• Missing or broken shingles – If you have missing or broken roof tiles, these need to be replaced as soon as possible to stop the leak.
• Blocked gutters – If your gutters become too clogged, water cannot escape from your roof or foundation, which may result in a roof leak.
• Damaged roof vent – If your vent has rusted, cracked, or has broken seams, it can create a leaking issue.
• The flashing is causing a leak – Flashing at the bottom of your chimney may be the source of the leak if you have a chimney. Roof sealant may have failed to adhere to this flashing due to rusting, cracking or improper sealant application.
• The roof membrane was poorly installed – If your roof membrane has been improperly installed, it may be pierced over time, creating a leak.
• The skylight is leaking – The rubber seal around your skylight may leak, causing water to run inside and drip into the interior of your home.
• The roof is old – As your roof’s materials begin to fail, its integrity may be compromised. When this occurs, your roof might need to be replaced or waterproofing reapplied.

What to Do When You Notice a Roof Leak

Protecting your possessions from water damage is the first step to dealing with a leak. Electronics, rugs, furniture, and other possessions should be moved to another room. Cover your furniture with plastic or tarp if this is not possible.

Make good use of your buckets if you have any! Place them under the leak to catch water inflow. A second bucket can be used if there is a rapid leak.

Using old towels or mops, soak up as much water as possible. A fan can help dry out the area and prevent nasty mould from growing by circulating air through it. If inhaled or ingested, mould spores can cause a range of unpleasant or even dangerous symptoms in humans.

Call A Professional for Roof Repairs

The solutions above are only temporary fixes! The chances are that your roof will leak again if it leaks in heavy rain once. The effects of roof leaks can be severe if left unchecked. That’s why it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible.