What To Do When You Have A Leaky Roof

Dealing with a leaky roof can be stressful, especially when you’re unsure about the next steps. At Albany Roofing, we believe understanding the issue is the first step to solving it. Here’s what you need to know to protect your home and get things back on track quickly.

Identify The Signs Of A Leak

The first sign of a roof leak isn’t always water dripping from the ceiling. Look for telltale signs like water stains, peeling paint, warped wood, or a sudden musty smell. Spotting these issues early can help you avoid more significant damage.

What To Do After Finding A Roof Leak

Protect Your Belongings

As soon as you notice water leaking into your home, act quickly to prevent further interior damage. Move furniture, electronics, and any valuables out of harm’s way. If the water is already dripping, place a bucket, bowl, or container directly beneath the leak to catch it. Use old towels or rags to mop up any puddles on the floor to reduce the risk of slips and water spreading.

Relieve Water Pressure Safely

If you spot a bulge or sagging area in your ceiling caused by water buildup, don’t ignore it – it could lead to a dangerous collapse. Use a screwdriver or similar tool to carefully poke a small hole in the centre of the bulge, allowing the trapped water to drain into a container. Although this may seem counterintuitive, it prevents the damage from worsening and makes it easier to manage the leak.

Inspect Your Roof From The Outside

After containing the immediate issue inside, step outside to assess the possible source of the leak. Scan the roof for obvious signs of damage, such as missing shingles, cracks around vents or chimneys, or debris buildup in gutters. If the weather permits and you can do so safely, use a sturdy ladder to get a closer look. Binoculars are a good alternative if the roof isn’t easily accessible.

Cover The Damaged Area

If you’ve identified the source of the leak and can access it safely, use a heavy-duty, waterproof tarp as a temporary fix. Ensure the tarp extends several feet beyond the damaged area and secure it with nails or heavy objects like bricks or boards. This will help reduce the amount of water entering your home until professional repairs can be made. If you’re unsure or unable to do this safely, skip this step and contact a professional roofing company right away.

Call A Calgary Roofing Company

Roof leaks often involve more than meets the eye. Trying to fix a leak yourself might seem like a cost-saving option, but it’s a risky move. Without proper tools or experience, you could end up causing more damage – or even injuring yourself. Even if you think you’ve found and patched the problem, the underlying damage may still exist. Contact an experienced roofing contractor like Albany Roofing for a thorough inspection and permanent repairs. Professionals will ensure the structure is sound and address issues that could lead to future leaks.

Document The Damage For Insurance

Take detailed photos of the leak inside your home, any visible damage to the roof, and any affected belongings. If water has soaked through walls, ceilings, or flooring, include that in your documentation as well. These photos will be invaluable if you decide to file an insurance claim for water damage or roof repairs.

Take Steps to Prevent Future Leaks

Once the immediate issue is addressed, put measures in place to minimize the chances of another leak. Roof leaks can stem from a variety of problems but you can take steps to try and protect your home:

• Clean Your Gutters Regularly: Ensure your gutters and downspouts are free of debris to prevent water from pooling on your roof.
• Trim Overhanging Branches: Remove branches that could damage the roof during storms or drop debris that clogs gutters.
• Schedule Regular Roof Inspections: Arrange for a professional inspection at least once a year to catch small issues before they become big problems.

Don’t Wait – Protect Your Home Today

A leaky roof won’t fix itself. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of water damage to your home. At Albany Roofing, we specialize in identifying and repairing roof leaks efficiently. Our team will provide a thorough inspection, pinpoint the problem, and offer the most effective solution to keep your roof watertight for years to come. Regular maintenance is key. By scheduling annual inspections, keeping your gutters clean, and trimming overhanging branches to protect your roof, you can help prevent roof leaks before they happen.

Contact Albany Roofing for professional service and reliable roof repairs in Calgary and surrounding areas. We’re here to keep your home safe, dry, and secure.