Emergency Roof Repair: What to Do When Your Roof is Leaking
Roofers Leeds • Apr 02, 2023
At Roofers Leeds, we handle numerous urgent roof repair cases annually. It's common for property owners to become aware of roof issues only after spotting leaks. In this blog post, our Leeds-based roofing professionals cover the typical indications of a leaking roof and provide guidance on how to respond. We always advise to contact professional for any roof related work. Visit our homepage for an overview of our services.
Signs you have a leaking roof
- A water mark - one obvious indication of a roof leak is the presence of a water stain on your ceiling. However, it's important to note that not all stains necessarily come from the roof – for instance, you could have a leak from a water tank in your loft, or a leaking water pipe. Similarly, if you notice drips or moisture anywhere in your home, even if it seems to disappear, it's wise to have it checked out. Some leaks are intermittent and may be caused by specific weather conditions.
- Your exterior walls have damp patches - don't overlook damp marks on your exterior walls, as issues where the roof meets the wall may not be visible inside but can still cause structural damage.
- Mould growth - mould growth on walls or ceilings, whether inside or outside, requires immediate attention. While damp can have various causes, a roof leak is a possible culprit that needs to be investigated. Finally, the presence of moss or mildew on your home's exterior may indicate a problem with your guttering, drainpipes, or roof edging In addition, it may simply be a result of the area being shady and never receiving sunlight.
What to do when your roof is leaking
So, you have ascertained that the leak is caused by your roof what should you do next? Even if your roof leak isn't causing major damage yet, it's important to understand that the issue won't resolve itself. Ignoring it will only lead to more extensive water damage down the line. To prevent further damage, follow these steps for a leaking roof repair.
- If your "roofer near me" can't reach you immediately due to inclement weather or a pending storm, taking some basic steps can help minimize the disruption and cost of repair. Start by containing the damage. If water is dripping or bulging through your ceiling, place a bucket underneath to catch the water. To reduce the sound of dripping water, place an old tea towel or old item of clothing at the bottom of the bucket.
- Next, puncture a small hole in the bulging area to release built-up water and prevent further damage.
- While waiting for the professional roofer, move furniture away and lay plastic sheeting over fitted carpets to protect them from water damage. Remember, trying to repair the roof yourself can be hazardous and lead to more extensive damage. Always seek the assistance of a licensed and insured roofing contractor.
Have the leak repaired by a professional roofing contractor
After containing the damage caused by the leak, it's crucial to address the root cause of the problem. Merely fixing the interior damage won't solve the issue, and ignoring the source of the leak could lead to further problems and expenses. While climbing up onto the roof can be hazardous, there are some quick checks you can do before calling a professional. If you have access to your loft, check for any daylight shining through a slipped tile, which could be the obvious cause of the leak. During rainfall, use a torch to examine the interior of the roof for any water infiltration. Also, inspect your gutters for blockages caused by debris, moss, or leaves, which can force water into the main structure of your property.
At this stage, it's time to contact a professional roofing contractor, regardless of the cause of the leak. A professional roofer will have the experience and the tools to repair any damage, a reputable roofer will also follow the necessary health and safety precautions. For professional roofing advice and your free competitive quote contact Roofers Leeds today. We are 5 star Google rated by our customers.
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