The solution to fixing a leaky roof can be tiresome at times. Initially it can be difficult to detect a leak in the roof. To resolve this problem the first step you can take is the water testing technique for roof leaks. To do this, one person goes on top of the roof with a water pipe and another goes inside the attic with a bucket. The person on the roof floods the roof with the aid of the water pipe whilst the one in the attic watches carefully for any signs of leaks.
Water usually comes through damaged or worn out shingles where nails have come loose or either through poorly secured roof flashing around vents, the intersections of roof planes and chimneys. Look for a roof leak in the day, go up to your attic with a flashlight and look around for discolorations, water stains, marks and small holes made by moisture. You can also find holes in the ceiling by switching off the light and looking around for any signs of daylight that might penetrate through the holes.
Repairing the roof leak highly depends upon the roofing material and the roof’s construction. In case of an emergency, here are three steps that can be taken to fix the problem for the time being;
- Partially unfold and unroll enough heavy polyethylene sheeting to cover the leaking part of the roof, from eaves to peaks. Wrap one end around a 2 by 4 that is as long as the plastic’s width; staple the plastic along the 2 by 4. Sandwich the assembly with a second 2 by 4, and nail the boards together with three or four 3-inch or 3 1/4-inch common nails.
- Place the sandwiched end of the plastic along the eaves. Stretch the sheeting over the top of the ridge and down the other side.
- Sandwich the top end of the sheeting with another pair of 2 by 4s, to protect from heavy winds.
You can temporarily fix a leak in the roof if it is being caused by a hole by fastening a galvanized flashing sheet below the damaged shingles. Pry out the nails, carefully lift the damaged shingle with one hand and slip the flashing sheet below it with the other hand.
Working on top of a roof can be life threatening and dangerous, so we advise you not to use do-it-yourself techniques without taking safety measures and the aid of a professional roofer. On the other hand if you have roofing experience, confidence to get the job done efficiently and the tools necessary for fixing the problem than you can get the work done.
In this case, please consult Roofing Canton Michigan to receive professional aid in roofing and inspecting.