Dealing with a leaky roof can be frustrating and costly. But before you call a contractor, there are a few things you can do to try to fix the problem yourself. We’ll outline what to do if your roof leaks, as well as some tips for preventing future leaks. We’ll also discuss the cost of hiring a contractor to repair or replace your roof. So whether you’re dealing with a current leak or want to prepare for one in the future, keep reading for some helpful information.
Inspect your roof for any damage that may have caused the leak
One of the first things you should do when your roof starts leaking is inspect it for any damage that may have caused the leak. Common causes of roof leaks include missing or broken shingles, cracked or missing tiles, and damaged flashing. If you can’t determine the source of the leak yourself, you may opt to to call a contractor for help.
Repair any damaged shingles, tiles, or flashing on your roof
If you find any damage to your roof, you can try to repair it yourself. Depending on the type of damage, this may be a simple or complex project. If you’re not sure how to repair your roof, you may want to call a contractor for assistance on what needs to be done.
How to repair minor roof leaks
If you’re dealing with a minor roof leak, there are a few things you can do to try to fix the problem. Here are a few tips:
- Common causes of roof leaks include missing or broken shingles, cracked or missing tiles, and damaged flashing.
- Repair any damaged shingles, tiles, or flashing on your roof. If you’re not sure how to repair your roof, the best thing is to contact a contractor for help.
- Seal any cracks in your roof with silicone caulk.
- If your roof is flat, another option for your DIY repair is to use a construction adhesive and self-sealing strip shingle to seal the leakage. That would be more of an alternative solution than an entire replacement. However, if there is already structural damage, it wouldn’t be worth getting too crazy with adhesives or sealants… you may just be exacerbating the issue later on down the road when it breaks apart from such intensive repairs.
- Check your gutters and downspouts for debris and leaves, and clean them if necessary.
- Make sure all of your flashings are properly sealed and in place.
- Reseal any penetrations, such as skylights and chimneys, with a high-quality caulk.
How to repair major roof leaks
If you’ve determined that the leak is coming from a more significant source, you may need to take steps to fix it permanently. Here are some tips:
- If the leak is near a seam between two sections of roofing material, try applying sealant below and above the seam for a temporary fix. You can also use self-sealing shingles or special tape if necessary. If this doesn’t work, you may need to remove and replace the seams (or possibly an entire section) of your roof.
- If the leak is caused by missing or cracked shingles, you may need to carefully remove and replace them.
- If water can enter your roof from a chimney, skylight, vent, or other penetration, you may have to seal it with caulk or flashing cement. You may also want to install a metal or rubber diverter that will carry water around these penetrations instead of through them.
Prevent future leaks with regular roof maintenance
One of the best ways to prevent future leaks is by regularly maintaining your roof. This includes checking for any damage or wear and tear, and cleaning gutters and downspouts. You may also want to consider coating your roof with a waterproof sealant.
Hire a contractor to repair or replace your roof
If you’re not comfortable repairing your roof yourself, or if the damage is too extensive, you may want to hire a contractor to repair or replace your roof. Replacing an entire roof is costly, so you may want to choose the least expensive option available to you. If you do have enough money to install a new roof, keep in mind that it will likely be at least 25 percent more expensive than repairing your current one.
Make sure to do your research when it comes time hiring a contractor. You should also get multiple quotes before choosing one. If you don’t know much about roofs or how they work, you may want to ask friends and family for suggestions.
If you have a roof leak, don’t wait to call for help. If it’s not taken care of right away, a small leak can turn into a big problem. Our professionals at Near Me Roofing Company in Kirkland are experienced in fixing roofs and will be able to take care of the issue quickly so that you can avoid any further damage. Don’t hesitate to give us a call today at (425)242-4795 if you need assistance with your roof!
