How To Patch A Leaky Roof: 6 Fixes To Tide You Over

Discovering a leak in your roof can be a homeowner’s nightmare. Not only does it pose a risk to the structure of your home, but it can also damage interiors and lead to costly repairs. However, knowing how to address a roof leak promptly can save you the trouble and expense of hiring a professional immediately. Here’s how you can take quick action to mitigate damage.

Can I Fix a Roof Leak Myself?

Yes, in many cases, you can manage a temporary fix for a roof leak yourself. This approach is especially useful if you need immediate solutions to protect your home until professional repairs can be made.

6 Tips For Patching A Leaky Roof

1. Locate the Leak and Assess the Damage

To find a leak, it’s most effective during rainfall. Observe where the water enters and note any damage within the house. If you have attic access, move insulation away from the wet areas, mop up excess water, and set a bucket on a stable surface, like a piece of plywood over the joists, to catch the drip. Check this setup regularly to prevent overflows.

2. Make a Temporary Patch

For a visible leak source in the attic, you can apply a temporary patch. Use roofing tar, a putty knife, and a piece of shingle or plywood. Cover the leaking area with tar, press the shingle or plywood into place, and seal the edges with more tar to prevent further water ingress.

3. Handle Ceiling Water Bulges Safely

If you notice your ceiling bulging from accumulated water, it’s crucial to act fast to avoid a collapse. Place a bin beneath the bulge and carefully puncture it with a screwdriver to drain the water. This step reduces stress on the rest of your ceiling and prevents extensive damage.

4. Cover the Leak with a Tarp

A robust temporary measure is to cover the affected roof area with a tarp. Use a 20 x 30 heavy duty tarp (like this one: Silver-Black Poly Tarp 20 x 30). Secure the tarp with ropes or straps around the eaves; avoid nailing it as this can introduce new leaks.

5. Seal with Caulks and Repair Tapes

For small holes or cracks, silicone or caulking works wonders. We recommend Through The Roof! Caulk— this ultra-elastic, clear roof repair caulk withstands weather changes without cracking and adheres to almost any material. For larger areas, consider Elasto-Tape, a roofing tape that seals against moisture effectively.

6. Install Roof Flashing

Incorporating flashing around joints and roof edges can significantly redirect water flow and prevent future leaks. Check out LENCO’s selection of flashing materials suitable for various roofing needs.

LENCO’s Roofing and Gutters Flashing Collection

One Final Word On Patching a Leaky Roof

At LENCO Supplies, where we pride ourselves on “Quality You Trust, Prices You Love”. We offer all the necessary materials for both emergency and preventative roof care. Although these quick fixes can provide temporary protection against water damage, they should not be considered permanent solutions.

For complete and lasting repairs or a full roof replacement, it is essential to consult with a professional. Immediate measures can help mitigate extensive damage, but the reliability and security provided by professional services are irreplaceable.