A leaking roof can cause significant damage to your home, especially in Ohio where heavy rain, snow, and extreme weather conditions are common. This is why as a homeowner, you should know, at least be familiar with, how to fix a leaking roof.
If you don’t know how, then don’t worry, this blog will provide you with a guide. Make sure to read to the end because we’ll also give you some tips on how to prevent future leaks.
Step 1: Locate the source of the leak
Before you can fix a leaking roof, you need to locate the source of the leak. This can be a challenging task, as the water can travel a significant distance from the actual leak. This is why you should inspect the roof thoroughly.
Start by checking for any obvious signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles or tiles. If you can’t see any visible damage, you may need to climb onto the roof to inspect it more closely.
Once you’ve located the source, mark the area with a piece of chalk or a marker so you can find it easily later.
Step 2: Clear the area around the leak
The next step on how to fix a leaking roof is to clear the area around the source of the leak. This means removing any debris, such as leaves or branches, that may be blocking the flow of water.
If there are any puddles of water, use a sponge or a towel to absorb them. This will make it easier to fix the leak and prevent further damage to your property.
Step 3: Fix the leak
The method you will have to use for roof leak repair will depend on the type of roof you have. But here are some steps you can take to fix the most common types of roofing:
- Fixing an asphalt shingle roof
For asphalt shingle roofs, you’ll need to replace the damaged shingle. Start by lifting the edges of the shingles above the damaged ones. Then, remove the damaged shingle and replace it with a new one.
Make sure to align the new shingle with the surrounding ones and nail it in place. - Fixing a metal roof
If you have a metal roof, you’ll need to locate the damaged area and apply a sealant to it. But make sure to clean the area thoroughly first before applying the sealant so it will stick. - Fixing a flat roof
If you have a flat roof, you’ll also need to apply a sealant to the damaged area. Start by cleaning the area and then applying the sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions. - Fixing a tile roof
If you have a tile roof, you’ll need to replace the damaged tile as well. Start by lifting the tiles around the damaged one and then remove the damaged tile. Replace it with a new one and make sure to align it with the surrounding tiles.
Step 4: Prevent future leaks
Now that you’ve fixed the leak already, remember that taking steps to prevent future leaks is also essential to maintaining the safety of your home. Here are some tips to help you do this:
- Keep your gutters clean: Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your roof. Clean your gutters regularly, especially during the fall when leaves are falling.
- Trim trees: Trees that hang over your roof can cause damage to your roof. So make sure to trim any trees that are close to your roof to prevent this from happening.
- Check for damage regularly: Regular inspections can help you catch small problems before they turn into major ones. Check your roof regularly for any signs of damage.
- Hire a professional: If you’re not comfortable working on your roof or you don’t have the right knowledge on how to fix a leaking roof, consider hiring a professional. They have the knowledge and tools necessary to handle roof leak repair.
Don’t Know How To Fix A Leaking Roof in Ohio?
Then contact Elite Roofing! We are a professional roofing contractor that can help fix your leaking roof. We have all the technical knowledge and experience necessary to ensure we can complete the repair on time and on budget. Our expert team is pros on this. Call us today and we’ll give you a free estimate!