Roof leaks happen for a variety of reasons, and nobody wants to deal with them. If you find yourself in this position, it’s best to act as soon as possible. Don’t take it lightly! There are a few things you can do to manage the situation and minimize damage. We’ve prepared a list of 7 steps to follow:
1. Move Items Out of The Way– Dealing with damage from a roof leak is bad enough but having to replace material possessions such as a couch or furniture can create additional stress. Start off by moving these items to a secure location quickly.
2. Contain The Leak– To prevent further damage to your home, find a way to contain the leak. Use anything you have readily available such as a bucket, trashcan, container, etc. Be sure to surround the container of choice with a towel for any remnants.
3. Relieve Pressure– If you notice the ceiling dipping or bulging, it’s likely collecting water or about to be full. Take action before the water comes out on its own. It may seem silly to poke a hole but doing it yourself can help you have control of the drainage. Poke a small hole at the lowest point and place a bucket underneath.
4. Tarp Your Roof– If there’s a reason your roof can’t be looked at quickly, it’s best to find a temporary solution in the meantime. Tarping your roof can help until a professional is able to check things over. Sometimes it can be tough to pinpoint the exact location where the leak is occurring, so use a tarp that covers a large area and make sure to be careful as you navigate the roof.
5. Take Photos of the Damage– Following this step will come in handy when it comes time to file an insurance claim (if it’s needed). Don’t worry about taking too many photos or keeping thorough notes on the damage. These items will ensure your insurance company pays the appropriate amount to fix everything.
6. Call a Professional Roofing Company– If you haven’t done this yet, be sure to reach out to a roofing company! It’s important to address a leaking roof quickly. Hiring a company who is experienced in roof repairs can help ease your mind during this stressful time and prevent further damage from occurring.
7. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance– Once things are back to normal, keep up routine maintenance to ensure another leak doesn’t occur. It’s recommended to inspect your roof at a minimum of once a year. However, be sure to check after any extreme weather conditions such as a hailstorm or strong winds.
Having a leaky roof is one of the last things a homeowner wants to deal with, but if you find yourself in this situation be sure to follow the steps above! There’s a lot of items that can be tackled on your own, but when it comes to repairing the damage, Aspen Contracting is ready to help. We have many locations and offer free inspections! Contact us today at 877-784-ROOF.