When storm winds blow, some homeowners may unexpectedly find themselves in need of emergency roof repair. Getting repairs made quickly by experienced roofers who can locate and correct the damage fast is essential. Yet sometimes there is a wait involved, especially when there are many storm-damaged homes in the area.
So what should homeowners do in the meantime? Anyone who has suffered roof damage should follow the roofing first response tips listed below to help until emergency roofer repair services can be arranged.
Find the Damage and Call for Repairs
A homeowner should always initially inspect their roof after a storm has raged through or if there is any other reason to suspect some kind of damage. Look on the inside of the attic and outside surfaces to find any areas of obvious damage or indications of water leaks. If damage is found, call for emergency roofer repair, then take steps to protect the home until roofers can get there. If damage is discovered during the storm, protect everything possible on the inside and call afterward. Leave any temporary outside repairs until the storm passes and the rain stops.
Contain the Water to Protect Belongings
Any water leaking into the home should be contained to prevent damage to the house interior or the items inside. Catch the rainwater in buckets and move everything away from the damaged area. If necessary, cover items in plastic to prevent them from getting wet. Until roofers are able to make needed repairs, look for ways to divert the water to prevent more from coming in.
Tarp the Roof
If there is safe access to the roof, try to cover the area that has been damaged with a tarp. Wait for the roof to dry off, then attach a tarp by screwing it down with pieces of 2x4 planks to hold the edges secure and provide the most protection until repairs can be made. Tarps should only be used until emergency roofer repair can be arranged, as they will help prevent additional water from getting into the house if it starts to rain again.
Apply A Roof Patch
In some situations in the case of flat roofs, a patch compound can be applied to prevent more leaking if the source of the leak can be found. Available at most hardware and home supply stores, the sealing compound can be applied dry or wet and will form a watertight patch over smaller areas of damage. These patches should not be relied upon as the actual repair. Even if the leaking has stopped, it is essential to arrange for professional repair as soon as possible. The patch could fail or hide undetected significant damage. A proper repair is imperative.
Storm damage can happen when people least expect it, although handy homeowners can take a few vital steps to reduce the amount of damage to their homes and expedite the repair process. By locating the damage, protecting the inside of the home, and applying a temporary patch or cover, overall damage until emergency roofer repair is done can greatly reduce further damage. Homeowners should call experienced roofers as soon as damage is found, then get to work protecting the roof until help arrives!