Repairing a Leaking Roof

Before you call a contractor to fix a leaky roof, you should first find out where the problem is. It can be anywhere from a broken or missing shingle to a damaged flashing or loose nails. It’s also important to check for soft spots under the surface. Try to replicate a leaky area and have a family member or friend to observe the situation to detect any telltale signs.

Small leaks are often the result of a missing nail. It will be visible in the space between the roof and the plastic insulation. This area can be white or frosted when it’s cold, and drips water when it’s warm. Fortunately, you can clip these nails and prevent them from dripping. Another possible source of leaks is damaged plumbing vent boot. These metal or plastic bases cover the pipes underneath your roof.

Once you’ve located a leak, you can begin the repair process. First, you should measure the area of the leak. You should be able to find the exact location of the problem. If the area is larger than 12 inches, you can try to secure it temporarily with a 12-inch piece of galvanized sheet metal flashing. You can find this type of flashing at home improvement centers and hardware stores.

Another warning sign that your roof needs repair is a musty smell. Those odors could indicate that water is coming into your home from the leaking roof. A musty smell can also be a sign of rotten shingles. You can also check your attic for water stains, which are usually caused by water. In addition, you should look for discolored or loose shingles. A leaky roof can lead to mold growth, so it’s important to get it fixed right away.

In order to repair a leaky roof, you must first determine the source of the leak. Sometimes this task is easy, but sometimes not. A tree falling through your roof is a common source. If you can’t pinpoint the source of the leak, you may have to determine if you need to contact a professional.

The next step is replacing the shingles. When the shingles are damaged, you should purchase new ones from the home improvement store. If you don’t have enough time to wait for a professional, you can also replace the shingles yourself. Just make sure to use a pry bar. It can be difficult to remove the damaged shingle, so you may have to pry the shingles away from the shingles to remove the nails. After removing the nails, level the shingles to prevent further damage.

In addition to repairing shingles, you should also consider replacing the flashing around the chimney. This type of flashing is prone to damage because it is exposed to high winds, rain, and hail. You can also repair the flashing by using roofing cement or caulk. If you’re not comfortable climbing up on the roof, hire a roofing contractor in Orlando.