What to Do If You Have a Leaking Roof

What to Do If You Have a Leaking Roof

Roof leaks may seem like minor annoyances at first, but they have the potential to snowball into serious problems.

The most important step is to contact expert roofers in Raleigh, NC, to address the leak as soon as possible. However, there are several intermediate actions you can take to lessen the risk of more extensive damage to your home.

1. Identify the Source

Your first move should be to figure out where the leak is coming from. The following telltale signs of water damage can help you trace the roof’s weak points:

  • Water stains on the ceiling, floor, and/or exterior walls
  • Missing or damaged shingles
  • Musty smells and mold and mildew growth
  • Bulging ceilings or drywall

Once you’ve determined the leak’s origin, you’ll have a better sense of the type of damage you’re dealing with, such as cracked shingles, worn-out sealant, or inefficient flashing. You’ll also be able to direct your roofing contractors in Raleigh straight to the problem’s source.

2. Evaluate the Risks

The leak’s location and severity affect how serious a threat it poses to your home.

As long as they’re caught early, many leaks are relatively small and contained to a single area, usually the attic.

However, if the encroaching water is dripping behind an outlet, switch, or other electrified area, it could cause an electrical short. The resulting sparks could start a devastating house fire.

A buckling ceiling could also spell imminent trouble. It’s a sign that a significant amount of water has pooled in one place on your roof and could burst through at any moment.

Finally, a long-term leak increases the chances of mold and mildew growth inside your home’s walls and attic. If any members of your household are sensitive or allergic to mold, their health could be at risk.

3. Take Immediate Action

Leaks with the potential to cause electrical shorts are cause for immediate concern. Remove all flammable objects from the area and keep an extinguisher close at hand. In addition to calling roofing specialists in Raleigh, NC, contact an electrician to come out right away to check for damaged wires.

If your ceiling is buckling, it may be wise (though counterintuitive) to puncture a hole in the center of the bulge to allow the water to drain. Place a large bucket or basin underneath the bulge first!

For minor leaks, place receptacles beneath the affected area to catch the water. You can also spread a tarp over the top of the roof – but only if it’s possible to do so without climbing out onto the rooftop yourself.

4. Contact Expert Raleigh Roofers

Roofing repairs are always best left to the professionals. Even something that seems as simple as a minor leak fix can go wrong without the proper tools and training.

Save yourself the hassle and hire top roofers in Raleigh, NC, who will get the job done right the first time.

Combating a Leaking Roof: Final Thoughts

Roof leaks are not to be taken lightly. As long as you act fast and hire a reputable contractor, they’re typically an easy and inexpensive fix.


Looking for the best roofer in Raleigh to help you address a roof leak? Contact Roof Repair Specialists today!

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