A leaky roof creates two threats. The first threat is foundational damage, and the other threat is mold. Mold is the bigger threat because it will put your family\’s health at risk.
If your roof is leaking, you have two options. You can call a roofer, or you can try to stop the leak yourself. Option one is ideal, but if you can\’t afford to hire a roofer at the moment, it\’s always good to have a back plan.
The Ultimate Backup Plan
Roof repair is a complex job. It requires a keen eye and a lot of patience. If you\’re up for challenge, rise up and follow these steps.
Step One – Attack the Leak
If you have soggy dry wall in your home, you\’ll need to attack the water that lies above. For this job, you\’ll need a step ladder, a bucket, and a pen. First, place the ladder under the soggy section. Then, put the bucket on the floor beside the ladder under the soggy spot. Next, climb up the ladder, and poke a hole in the ceiling to release the water. In time, all of the water will fall into the bucket. If your ceiling starts to leak rapidly, time will not be on your side. If you want to be on the safe side, invest in a roof leak diverter bucket. It will catch the water until the repairs are done.
Step Two – Patch the Roof
If you just need a quick fix, you can use a tarp to temporarily stop a slow leak. Do not settle for any tarp. You\’ll need one that\’s made of polyester fiber with a polyurethane coating. It will keep the water out of your home until you begin the core repairs.
Step Three – Stop the Leak
You can fix a leaky roof with roof cement, caulk, or sealant. Roof cement is great for holes and cracks. However, it will only create a firm seal on a dry surface. Caulk is not a permanent fix for a leak. It\’s primarily used as a stop gap. You can smear it on your shingles, soffit, and flashing. Sealants are sold in a tube. They\’re good for small leaks, and they will work on wet or dry surfaces.