I’ve been told that the Texas rain is bigger than anywhere else…
Now, I’m not sure if that’s true but everything is bigger in Texas. So, when those big Texas-sized raindrops hit your roof and find a way into your home, you better call Baker Roofing & Construction. We offer a quick diagnosis and leak repair service. But let’s discuss what to do when your roof leaks before the professionals arrive.
Leaks Happen
Unfortunately, most homeowners will not be aware of a leak until it has become a major problem. This is because most leaks will be small at first and will slowly get worse till a small leak becomes a very large leak. Small leaks can cause damage to your decking, rafters and ceiling joist. They can cause mold to form in the attic or inside your walls. Also, leaks attract insects like ants and termites that may cause even more structural damage if you don't get a quality roof repair.
What Can You Do About A Leaky Roof?
You can inside your attic and look for the source of the leak. If you are able to find the source, then we need to assess how much water is being leaked into the home and if there is any immediate damage that could occur. Consider if the leaking water could interfere with any electrical junctions or other immediate hazards. Try placing buckets to catch any of the dripping water. If the water is running down a surface rather than dripping, try attaching a length of string to the area where the water is running to try and reroute the water down the string and into the bucket like how a rain chain operates.
Tarp Your Roof
If you feel comfortable climbing up onto your roof, then you can apply a tarp as a temporary patch. This is a service Baker Roofing offers but here is a DIY guide if you are feeling so bold.
First, wait until the rain has stopped and the roof has dried. Then you will need a large tarp that is at least 3’ larger, in every direction, than the area that needs repair, enough 1x4” boards to outline the perimeter of the tarp and some long 2” deck screws to fasten it all down. You will need to spread the tarp over the area that needs repair. Then, along the top side, roll your 1x4” up in the tarp three times to make three layers of tarp wrapped around your board. Next, fasten the board to the roof with a screw, going through the tarp and the board, into the roof decking. Apply a screw every 12-16” to the board till you come to the end. Repeat these steps for the other three sides of the tarp and, if done properly, you should have a temporary patch that will hold up for 2-4 months.
Call a Professional Roof Contractor
Leaks can be hard to find since water will take the path of least resistance and can travel a great distance from the source. This is why it is important to call a professional roofing company to inspect your roof in detail so that the leak can be found, and any potential future threats can be curved. Finding these issues can greatly reduce future repair costs. Baker Roofing & Construction will inspect your whole roof system even when called out for a simple repair.
