How Can You Fix a Leaking Roof?

We all love the sound of rain. It’s therapeutic and, at the right intensity, can be quite calming as you drift off to sleep. However, rain and roofs do not always play nicely together. The last thing you want is to find your roof leaking as a result of heavy rainfall.

A leaking roof can quickly become a major issue in a multitude of ways, from water stains on the walls and ceiling to mould growth and significant damage to your property.

We may have just said goodbye to winter for another year, but that certainly doesn’t mean heavy rainfall is done for another 12 months.

The good news is there are several indicators and obvious signs of a leaking roof, and some simple solutions to prevent a roof leak from occurring. So, let’s take a look at roof leak repair and how a professional roofing company will be able to help you.

How Can I Tell if My Roof is Leaking?

Perhaps memories of an ugly mould stain from your first share house still haunt you to this day. Not only is mould a sign of a water leak, but long-term mould exposure can impact your health.

Ceiling stains and wet spots are clear-cut tell-tale signs of a roof leak. Leave it too long though, and that stain will soon become dripping water.

Outside you would see moss or algae on the exterior walls. I mean, this may be a quirky feature, but it’s certainly not the natural, eco-friendly look you should be striving for.

What Causes a Leaky Roof?

There are many potential reasons why your roof might be leaking. Many of them might even fly under the radar – that is, until they cause noticeable roof damage. Here are some of the most common causes of roof leaks:

• Blocked gutters – These can stop water from draining properly, leading to overflow and water seeping into the roof.
• Missing shingles – Missing or cracked shingles create vulnerable gaps that allow water to enter. Broken seams can do the same thing.
• Damage to key areas – Certain areas like the roof valley, ridge caps and around the chimney often experience leaks, especially if they’ve not been properly sealed with roof sealant.
• Substandard installation – Poorly installed roof materials or roof tiles may not provide adequate protection from the elements.

Debris, small holes, or other debris can also exacerbate existing roof problems that can lead to roof leak issues over time. But by addressing these issues early with the aid of a professional roofer, you can prevent leaks and keep your roof in good nick.

Immediate Actions for a Leaking Roof

When your roof is leaking, you must take immediate action ASAP to prevent further damage.

Start by moving any furniture and electronics out of harm’s way to prevent water damage. If it’s safe to do so, inspect your attic or ceiling cavity. This can give you a worthwhile idea of the extent of the leak.

Small water leaks may not require instant professional help. You might even be able to contain them with a temporary fix, such as applying roofing cement with a putty knife – which you can find at most hardware stores.

Always remember that these are short-term solutions for roof leaks. For a durable and lasting repair solution, including thorough roof leak detection, you should consult roofing professionals.

Understanding the Impact of Heavy Rain on Roof Leaks

As we mentioned back in the intro, heavy rain can lead to roof leaks by exacerbating existing weak spots in your roof.

It’s essential to check areas such as the flashing, vent boot, and step flashing. These are common entry points for water in leaky roofs. In the case of tile roofs, including concrete roof tiles and slate, damage such as broken tiles or compromised ridge capping can allow rain to infiltrate.

For those with metal roofs, a roofing professional will ensure that all screw holes are sealed and that the metal sheets are installed properly. Regular inspections of roofing materials, especially after a heavy downpour, can save you from the headache of dealing with a roof leak.

How to Prevent Roof Leaks

As with many common issues, prevention is always the best plan of attack against roof leaks. Best to avoid them completely when you can rather than have to deal with the aftermath.

The simplest step is an annual gutter clean. Removing leaves and debris from clogged gutters will allow the water to flow freely and save you future worries. Gutter guards can help if you have a lot of trees surrounding your property and simply can’t keep up with the constant cleaning.

Attempting a DIY job as an early fix can prevent some damage, however, it may not fix or replace everything.

That’s where Metropolitan Plumbing can come in! We specialise in leaking roofs, roof repairs and roof plumbing. Our technicians provide a full examination and long term solutions, not just a temporary patch job. If you have any issues with a blocked downpipe or blocked stormwater drain, don’t fret, contact us today and we can send a plumber out.

Choosing the Right Materials for Repair and Replacement

When it comes to fixing a leaky roof, the quality of materials that you use can make all the difference.

• For tiled roofs, use matching concrete roof tiles or clay tiles that meet the standards for your climate.
• Got a metal roof? It’s important to choose the right type of metal and make sure it is coated correctly for weather resistance.
• If your flat roof is leaking, roofing professionals might recommend materials like EPDM or TPO for their durability and effectiveness in sealing against water.

Always choose high-quality materials that will weather the elements (pardon the pun) and provide long-term solutions to roof leaks.

Long-Term Solutions for Roof Leaks

If you want some assurance that a professional roofing company will be able to comprehensively address your roofing needs, it’s well worth booking a full roof inspection.

Roofing experts can identify and repair problematic areas such as damaged shingles, inadequate roof sheathing, and improper roof penetrations. If your tiled roof or flat roof has seen better days, it might be time to discuss a new roof with your insurance company. In the interim, keeping gutters clear of leaf debris and ensuring downpipes are not blocked can mitigate immediate risks.

Remember, fixing small leaks quickly can prevent them from becoming a big problem that leads to significant water damage and the need for an entire roof repair or replacement.

What To Do in a Roof Leak Emergency

What if a roof plumbing disaster hits and an unwanted pool starts forming in the dining room? Not to mention the growing water stain on the ceiling?

When you find yourself suddenly dealing with a roof leak, immediate attention matters as you seek professional assistance. Metropolitan Plumbing operates 24/7 and we can have a plumber at your door within an hour* of your call, for ease of mind with any plumbing emergency repairs

With a range of finance options** available to eligible customers, you won’t have to worry about the hassle of an upfront roof leak repair cost either.

While you wait, limit the damage by placing a bucket under the affected area to catch water from the leak. Surround the area with towels as well.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.