If you have a leaking roof and wish to fix it from the inside, this is your step-by-step guide.
How To Fix A Leaking Roof In 4 Steps
A leaking roof is a big problem during any sort of inclement weather conditions. If there is a heavy rainstorm, though, this becomes a much bigger emergency situation. A heavy downpour can quickly penetrate and exploit any small holes in your roofing. Water can seep into sheetrock walls, causing the structures to crumble and soak insulation. Time is of the essence during these unfortunate circumstances.
Step 1. Go To The Attic
The first thing you need to do when attempting to fix a leak is to gain access to your attic space. Remove the insulation from the drywall (your ceiling), then remove any standing water gently with sponges. To do this effectively, make sure you have a piece of plywood laid across the ceiling joists. You will also need a bucket nearby to wring the water into after absorption. Place the bucket in a safe and sturdy spot.
Step 2. Locate The Leak
The next step is the most important overall. Try to find exactly where the water is entering the home. Follow the path of the water coming through the roof, if possible. Oftentimes, due to the slope of your roof this will be far from where the water is actually coming through the ceiling. Water tends to follow along the roof decking or rafters.
Step 3. Make Temporary Leak Patch
Once the leak has been located, make a temporary leak patch. You can construct the patch of shingle, plywood or some roofing tar. Using a putty knife, spread the tar into the leaking hole on the inside of the roof. Place the material onto the tar, then spread more of the tar around the patched edges.
Step 4. Map The Roof Leak
The last step is important, as well. Before you exit the attic, use a measuring tape to map where the leak is and where it runs. This will help you find the leak after the rainfall stops. After the rain stops, put some rubber soled shoes on and use that same measurement to find the leaking area on the outside of the roof. Now put a temporary leak patch on the outside roofing.
How To Find Leaks Inside The Home
If you simply cannot locate the leak from inside the home, you will need to cover it as soon as possible with plastic roof covering. This also applies to homes that have no attic nor attic access. Carefully follow these steps if you cannot make a temporary patch for the leak.
Buy And Prep Roof Plastic
Most homeowners will not have any roof plastic stored in a closet. Therefore, you will have to head out to the hardware store to make the purchase. Plastic roof coverings come in 4-foot rolls of polyethylene. You will also need 8-foot 2×4’s to use as anchors when applying the plastic covering.
Cut Plastic To Length
Cut the plastic long, making sure it runs all the way from the top of the roof to the edge (eave). Use a utility knife to cut the plastic after it has been rolled out to the proper length.
Attach The Cover To 2x4s
Roll one of the ends around the 8-foot 2×4’s. Then using a staple gun, attach it to the wood. Use a second 2×4 to sandwich between the plastic and wood. Finish by nailing the 2×4’s together.
Place Cover On Roof
Safety is the main objective here, so if you can’t place the cover on the roof safely, contact the professionals to finish the task. If you have a ladder and rubber-soled shoes, get on the roof and place one pair of 2×4’s over the ridge. Stretch the rest of the plastic to go down to the eave.
G Keith Roofing and waterproofing in New York
At G Keith Roofing and waterproofing, we know choosing a Roofing Contractor in the New York Area is a tough job. We are here to help make it easier! Locally owned and operated, G Keith Roofing and waterproofing has been providing roof installation and roof repairs throughout the surrounding New York areas since 1995. With each new roofing project, we strive to provide professional, timely service at a fair price. Contact G Keith Roofing and waterproofing right here!
