subject: Tips For Repairing Roofing Leaks [print this page] Leaks can be caused by a number of different types of damage to a roof, and each type will require a different sort of maintenance. Some leaks can be fixed on one's own, but much of the time these solutions will be, at best, temporary.
Most leaks can be fixed temporarily and then left to a professional to deal with on a more permanent basis. Here, we will detail some of the ways in which you can temporarily fix a leak, as well as how professional maintenance teams can help solve the problem for good.
Once you've spotted a leak, the first thing you'll want to do is protect the interior of your home from being damaged by the water. Placing a receptacle of some kind under the source of the leak to catch the water will prevent the interior from getting wet. Depending on the state of the weather, it may or may not be safe to go outside. If there is currently a storm going on, it is not advisable to go onto the roof due to the chance of being struck by lightning.
Once it is safe, however, if you can safely access the roof then you can check for areas with excess water. Roof drains and scuppers can be checked to make sure they are functioning properly. Many leaks are caused by water collecting due to blocked drains and gutters.
As always, exercise caution when going onto the roof, and if it is not a viable course of action you can get a roof maintenance company to help. Locating the source of the leak may not be possible, but checking the flashings, sealants, and caulking on the roof can provide clues. Again, the aid of a roofing team may be necessary to locate and repair the leak at all.
Emergency repairs can be performed in several ways, such as with plastic cement, sealant and roofing tape, or even duct tape. None of these types of emergency repairs pose feasible long term solutions, however, and you will of course want to contact a professional team to do so.
It is important to note that if you plan to use plastic cement to fix a leak temporarily, then it is best to use the rain patch variety that will allow you to use it in contact with water. Normal plastic cement will have trouble drying under wet conditions.
