To fix roof leaks, there are a number of things to consider and check. While it is important to ensure that leaks are fixed as soon as possible and that your roof is properly protected, remember to put safety first. Here are the top 10 ways to fix roof leaks on residential properties.
Eliminate Leaks as you find them
The first thing to remember is to not get discouraged when you can’t quite find where your roof is leaking. The best advice is to cover one area, examine, install the shingles back, and seal it watertight. That way, you know at least this area is not leaking. Then, move on to the next.
Check Valleys
When two roofs come together at an intersection, this is called a valley or ridge. These are very common places for leaks so be sure to examine these parts. This is where water across the entire roof goes to. When it arrives, the water sometimes moves back and forth wearing down this part.
Inspect all Materials
Shingles can be faulty. After being nailed down, they can begin to crack. Faulty installation actually plays a big role in a roof leaking. Nails can be nailed too low and thereby will start pushing back up. Always check before getting up on the roof.
Fix Roof Pipe Boots
Potential leaks can exist in flashing, roofing, ice damping, and skylights but where we don’t often check are the pipe boots. If pipe boots are dry or deteriorated, they are likely to help cause major leaks. Luckily, it’s a quick fix. Any local hardware store should have a new roof pipe boot. Just remove some of the shingles, lay it down, and put everything back into place.
Keep an Eye Out for Ice Buildup
Ice will accumulate under roof gutters, shingles, and membranes. The ice can then build up to the wall to the heating point and create an interior drip. Proper ventilation, and rain and ice shields should be installed along the drip edge to prevent this.
Avoid Dry Rot
Dry rot occurs when there is a lack of ventilation. If roof repair is required in the middle of a roof, it’s more likely that the plywood is deteriorating. In time, this will cause the roof to sag and the shingles will become brittle, start to crack, and then leak. Always install a ridge vent to prevent dry rot and to allow ventilation to run smoothly throughout.
Keep Gutters clean
Clogged gutters are a common reason for roof leaks. Always ensure they are clean to allow rain to flow.
Spray the Roof
Using a hose to identify where a roof is leaking can be an easy way to find troubled areas. Please note that, if it’s winter, it’s not safe to run water on a roof when there are freezing temperatures. In this case, it’s best to wait for a warmer time of year.
Take Precautions
Don’t put your body into positions where you don’t feel comfortable or safe. Always wear rubber sole shoes to prevent slipping and preferably work with a buddy in case anything happens.
Put Safety First
Trying to find a leak by any means necessary is the kind of determination that eventually results in an inexperienced or experienced handyman ending up in the hospital. Don’t go up there if it’s raining, if there’s ice, and/or if it’s covered in snow. Be smart. Trying to fix a leak in these conditions is highly dangerous. Be patient and wait for a better time to do so.
Seek Help from Professionals
Don’t forget that you can always contact approved Roofers from Regional Roofers Associations to help you with all roofing related information.
