Step-by-Step: How to Patch a Roof Leak Like a Pro
A leaking roof is a hazard that you need to address quickly. Excess water can cause property damage and result in costly repairs. It can even threaten your safety by causing mold, rotting, and structural instability. If you notice dripping water, missing shingles, or water spots on your ceiling, it's time to check your roof to fix any damage before the problem worsens. Here are the steps in the patching process.
Locate the leak
Examine the roof from the lowest point up the roof ridge to identify the source of the leak. Pay special attention to the roof vents and other areas that have metal flashing, as these are common sources of roof leaks.
Assess the extent of the damage
If the leak has caused interior damage to your attic, you may need to replace damaged drywall or insulation. If the leak affects an area that contains electrical wiring, you may be at risk of an electrical fire. Have a licensed electrician check the wiring.
Remove damaged shingles and other materials
Use a pry bar to remove the roof vent if damaged and replace it with a new one. Then, tear away old shingles. Take care to avoid bending the shingles around the patch area. Next, tear off the old roofing paper.
Cut away the damaged roof deck
The next step is to mark the damaged area of the roofing deck and use a saw to cut it away. Pull out the nails with a hammer or pry bar, and remove the damaged plywood.
Attach roof deck patch, paper, and shingles
Measure and cut a new piece of plywood to patch the roof deck. Nail it into place on the rafters. Once the roof deck patch is in place, cover it with new roofing paper, and start laying the shingles. Start at the bottom and work from left to right. When you reach the top of the patch area, slide the final row of shingles under the existing ones to complete the patch. Apply caulk to any unsealed lines to make the patch watertight.
Call in the professionals
It’s important to contact a professional roofer like Almeida Roofing Inc. to inspect your roof, locate the source of the leak, drain the water, dry out the area, and fix the damage correctly. Poorly done patch jobs can cause more harm than good by weakening your roof and making it susceptible to bigger leaks and widespread damage later on. An experienced contractor has the skills and training to evaluate your situation and fix the issue correctly the first time.
Patch a leaking roof as soon as you notice any signs of damage. Taking swift action can limit the amount of damage the leak causes, resulting in lower repair bills. For more tips on home improvement ideas and maintenance techniques, visit our Facebook and Instagram pages for information and inspiration.
