Roof leaks are something no homeowner wants to deal with. They’re inconvenient, expensive to repair, and can lead to many problems throughout your home. If you’ve ever experienced roof leaks during heavy rain, you know how frustrating it can be. Water damage is expensive to fix and can be time-consuming to repair.
The only way to stop roof leaks, and have your roof repaired, is to contact a professional roofing contractor. However, it can take some time before a roofing contractor is able to get to your home, and if it is raining this can be a major problem. What will you do till then? Don’t stress – we are here to help! Below are some useful tips that you can do to make sure the leaks do not get worse while you are waiting for help.
What Causes Roof Leaks In Heavy Rain?
A leaky roof can be a disaster for any homeowner, and it can cause serious damage if it’s not taken care of right away. Many homeowners wonder when it’s time to call a roofing contractor, and if you notice a roof leak it is always best to call right away. Let’s take a look at what causes roof leaks.
Missing Shingles
If your roof shingles are damaged, they can leak. Asphalt shingles are designed to last 20-25 years, but that may not always be the case. If you have a damaged shingle, water can get underneath it and cause more damage to the wood below your roof. This can lead to leaks in your ceiling or walls inside your home. If you have missing or curling shingles, they may need to be replaced because water can collect under them.
Clogged Gutters
Debris buildup in your gutters can cause roof leaks. This can be a result of not cleaning out the gutters often enough, or if they’re blocked due to debris. If you see an excessive amount of water flowing over the edge of your roof and down into the gutter, it may be a sign that debris has collected in your gutter system and is backing up water.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is a small metal piece that seals the roof to the wall. Flashings can be damaged by wind, hail, and other weather conditions. More serious damage can occur if tree branches or other debris lands on your roof. Damaged flashing can cause leaks, and let water into your home.
Image Source: Mccoyroofing.com
Steps To Take After You Detect Roof Leaks In Heavy Rain
As we saw above, roof leaks are more than just an annoyance. They can cause structural damage and even increase your energy bills if they are not taken care of right away. The good news is that there are steps you can take to manage roof leaks in heavy rain. Below are some steps you can take:
Call A Roofing Contractor
As soon as you witness that something is wrong with your roof, you need to call a roofing contractor. A professional roofing contractor has the experience necessary to spot damaged areas, and complete repairs quickly. Climbing on your roof to find the problem can be dangerous, and it is always best to contact a local roofing company when you notice leaks.
Remove The Furniture
If you find that your home has a leaky roof, it’s important to know how to respond. First, move all furniture away from the area where water is entering your home. You don’t want to risk ruining your furniture or other belongings by flooding them with water. It is also essential to remove other valuables, especially electronics, to a safe place. Water damage can permanently damage electronics including televisions and speakers. Be sure not to use any candles or other open flames near areas where water is pouring in as this could lead to a fire hazard.
Protect The Interiors
If roof leaks are neglected, they tend to get bigger and reach the other areas of your home. If these leaks start to reach the interiors, then it can create a bigger problem and lead to more expensive repairs in the future. If you detect water dripping inside your home, it is better to take immediate action.
Use a bucket or pail to catch the water coming down from the ceiling as this will prevent damage to your floor. This will also help you buy some more time until a contractor arrives. You can use towels or other clothes to get rid of the standing or ponding water.
Check Other Areas For Leaks
After you have taken steps to limit the damage, it is now time to find the problem area. Move around the other parts of the house after the rain subsides to find the source of the roof leaks in heavy rain. To begin with, you need to investigate the attic. The problem is most likely caused by poor ventilation of the attic or a damaged roof membrane. The first step is to inspect the area around the leak. You can do this by looking for stains on the ceiling below. Before going to the attic space, make sure that you turn off the power to avoid electrical hazards.
Clear Debris
Now, after assessing the interiors, it is time to carefully move out and look for damage on the roof. One of the main reasons leaks occur is due to debris blocking the passage of water.
The first step in dealing with a roof leak is to clear away any debris that might be blocking your gutters. Remove items such as leaves, branches, and pine needles if they are not allowing water to flow through your gutters. This will make it easier for you to locate the source of the leak and repair it quickly.
Use A Tarp To Cover The Area
If you notice that there is water coming in through the roof, you should consider tarping your roof. A roof tarp will prevent water from entering your home, and help protect your property from further damage. Roof tarps are an excellent short-term solution until permanent repairs can be made.
Best Emergency Roof Repair Services In South Jersey
It’s important to take care of a roof leak as soon as possible. The longer a leak goes unnoticed, the more damage it can cause to your home. In addition to fixing any leaks immediately, it’s also recommended that you inspect your roof regularly for other signs of wear and tear. A roof inspection can identify problem areas, and ensure your roof is in good condition.
Champion Exteriors has been a leading provider of emergency storm damage roof repair services in South Jersey for over 85 years. We are a full-service roofing company that specializes in providing timely, high-quality roof repairs for residential and commercial properties. We have an experienced staff and state-of-the-art equipment, which allows us to provide fast, efficient service. Contact us today at (609) 845-3576 for a free roof inspection