Leaking Roof? Here's What You Do!
There’s never a good time for your roof to spring a leak, so if you notice that your roof is leaking, there are a few key ways to help alleviate the issue and minimize further damage while waiting for your repair to be complete.
Stop Water Damage
In order to stop the leak from damaging items in your home, it is important to cover belongings with plastic or completely vacate the area of all belongings.
Contain the Water
Grab any water proof containers you have in your home, placing them under your leak, to catch any and all water coming through your roof. Make sure to keep an eye on the containers and switch them out as necessary. If you notice the leak is bigger than you thought and it is difficult to contain the leak, contact a contractor immediately.
Remove Excess Water
If your leak is contained and well controlled, take a look around and make sure all areas around the water-proof containers and your home are clean. Not only can the water stain certain surfaces, it can soak into furniture and carpets and create mold in your home. If you notice an excess of water around your containers, contact a professional to assist with clean up.
Call Your Insurance Company
Although concerned with the leak itself, it is important to take photos of the area where the leak originated and areas around it to have ready to send off to your insurance company. Documenting your damages will be very helpful when talking to your insurance and making a claim.
Tarp Your Roof
If your roof can’t be fixed immediately, getting your roof tarped is the best option. The longer you wait, the worse it can become, so it’s important to contact a roofing company, schedule a time to have your roof tarped, and further research roofing replacement options.
Routine Maintenance
After your roof has been fixed and you are leak-free, it’s still important to maintain your roof to minimize the potential for further damage.
Check trees close to your roof. If you notice you have branches and limbs close to your roof, think about trimming them
Gutters. Make sure your gutters are clean and water is able to flow through them.
Did a big storm just come through? Check your roof for missing or damaged shingles. If you notice any shingles that look out of place, contact a roofing company to check it out!