A roof leak, if left unattended, has the potential to wreak havoc on your entire home, leading to severe and costly damages. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the prompt repair of any roof leak you encounter. Ignoring the issue or delaying the necessary repairs can result in a domino effect of problems that may extend beyond the roof itself.
Step 1. Protect Your Home
If you have a visible leak, use buckets and tarps to protect carpets, furniture and other personal items. Move what you can move so that it doesn’t get damaged.
Be aware of any safety issues.
Step 2. Identify The Source of the Leak and Its Underlying Problems
Once you’ve noticed that your roof is leaking, you’re on the clock.
If not addressed promptly, roof leaks can lead to costly repairs, unsightly water stains, and foul-smelling mold. But don’t worry, here’s a few tips that will help you find the source of the leak.
- Look for Water Stains on the Ceiling
The easiest way to pinpoint a roof leak is by looking for water stains.
A water stain is a discoloration on your ceiling that occurs after heavy rain or when snow melts and soaks through the surface of your roof. This can be caused by many factors such as improper installation, bad design, or age.
If the leak is not too severe, you can remove the water with a wet-dry vacuum and then cover the area with plastic to keep it dry until it can be repaired. However, if the leak is serious, you may need to repair your roof before you can dry out the area.
- You Smell a Musty Odor in Certain Rooms
The root cause of this odor is probably mold; especially if you have a leaky roof. Mold grows when moisture is present and it thrives in environments where there are high levels of humidity.
You should be especially wary of black mold, which can cause serious health problems for people who are exposed to it. Black mold produces mycotoxins that can lead to asthma-like symptoms, allergic reactions, and more severe illnesses like cancer or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In order to stop mold from growing it is important to use bleach or other disinfectants on the affected area. You should also try to contain the source of the drip that’s causing it and call a roof repair expert right away.
- Check Your Roof for Damaged or Missing Shingles
Roof leaks are frequently caused by missing shingles, broken tiles, or a hole in the roof. These problems can cause extensive damage to your home as well as serious health problems for you and your family.
If you notice that your roof’s shingles and tiles are damaged, it’s probably best to leave it to a pro. However, if you have safe access to your roof, you can use a plastic tarp to cover the leak while you seek further assistance.
Help, I Still Can’t Find the Source of the Leak!
If you still can’t find the source of the leak, here’s a few steps you can take:
Make It Rain
If a quick inspection fails to reveal the location of the leak, it’s time to do a rain dance! Enlist the assistance of a friend to stand inside your house, where you first noticed the leak, and safely climb to the top of your roof. Then, with a garden hose in hand, soak your roof one section at a time. When your assistant notices a drip, have them give you a shout. Wherever you’re spraying is the likely location of the leak.
While you’re searching for the leak, take your time and be methodical. Spending several minutes hosing down each area will help you pinpoint the source of your roof leak.
Step 3. Enlist the Help of A Professional
While we all love our friends, sometimes a little teamwork just isn’t enough to get the job done. If you don’t feel safe inspecting your roof or if you’re still having trouble finding the cause of your leak, reach out to a roofing professional.
Do your research. Ask trusted neighbors for recommendations and go to the Better Business Bureau’s website (bbb.org) to make sure their suggestions are qualified. When you’ve narrowed down your selection, ask the company for proof of license and insurance. It’s also important to have a detailed contract, in writing, before any repair is started. This way, you’ll know what is expected of both parties and what will happen if something goes wrong. For a more complete list of tips, check out or blog with the questions to ask your contractor before you hire them.
We’re Here If You Need Us
At Volpe Enterprises, we encourage you to do your own research and pick the company that’s best qualified to repair your leaky roof. But if you’re looking for a company that’s reliable, trustworthy, and timely, we’ve got your back.
We provide live, 24/7, customer service and roof leak repair. Certified by the Better Business Bureau and CertainTeed, our knowledgeable roof technicians can identify the source of your leak, patch it, and assist with any further repairs or cleanup.
Having been in business since 1970, Volpe Enterprises is a trusted community roofer with a track record of dedication and excellence. Call or Click to get a free quote and inspection!
