When you spot a roof leak it can be easy to panic, especially if there’s a lot of water coming into your property. Don’t panic – just follow our step-by-step guide to getting it sorted with the least possible amount of hassle and damage:
1. Don’t just ignore a small leak
If you spot a leak that appears quite small, you might think it’s safe enough to ignore it completely- especially if it’s in an area where it won’t damage your belongings. Unfortunately, even leaks that appear to be small can cause big problems as the damage can spread. Any leak can damage your internal walls and ceilings, cause hazardous-to-health mold growth, and depending on where the leak is, affect your home’s structural integrity.
If the leak is small, DIY might seem appealing, especially when hardware stores carry temporary roof repair patches. However, these are not designed to solve the problem long term and skipping calling in a roofer can cost you a lot more when the damage to your roof spreads and you have a problem that can’t be patched.
2. Assess any risks
Your family’s health and safety is always top priority, so once you spot the leak and resolve not to ignore it, the next step is to identify any risks and take action to mitigate them. Is the leak in an area where water could get into electrical sockets or equipment? If so, switch off the breaker and remove what you can from the area. Keep an eye out for potential slip hazards too, such as leaks onto tiled floors, and take steps to keep any children or pets away from the area.
3. Protect your belongings
Now that the people in your home are safe, it’s time to do what you can to protect your belongings. If you have furniture, soft furnishings, or any other personal property that could be damaged by the water, move them to a safe and dry location. If possible, roll back carpets to prevent water seeping in to them and creating a damp haven for mold spores.
If this isn’t possible, cover the items with tarpaulin if you can to protect them from the water. Once you’ve cleared the area, put down buckets to contain the leak and protect your property as much as possible.
3. Call your local roofing contractor
If your roof is leaking, you’ll need to call in your local roofing contractor to get it sorted and give you back your dry home and your peace of mind. They’ll be able to assess the damage and repair the roof to a high standard, ensuring your home is protected properly in future.
When it comes to roof repairs, swift action can prevent larger problems. If your NJ home has a roof leak, contact Deegan Roofing asap. As your local roofing experts, we will repair your roof quickly and safely.