If you’re waking up to the sound of dripping water, or notice brown stains on your ceiling, or find that your walls are wet, it’s time for roof leak repair. The longer a leak goes untreated, the more damage it causes to your ceiling, walls and belongings. It can also encourage mold and mildew. The best way to prevent the spread of these unwanted contaminants is to use a wet dry vac and dehumidifier in the affected area, to clean and disinfect everything touched by water, then allow it to air dry.
Roof Leak Repair: Quick Fixes and Long-Term Solutions
If your house has an attic or crawlspace, go up there with a flashlight and look for the source of the leak. Leaks are often difficult to pinpoint because the spot where the water appears in the ceiling is probably not where it entered the roof. In many cases, you may have to search the entire attic for the source of the leak. Look for wet spots on the underside of the roof decking and exposed nails, especially in rafter bays that are insulated. You should also check the vapor barrier, which is usually plastic.
If you can’t locate the source of the leak, or if it’s a big drip, consider covering the area with a tarp until a professional can examine and fix it. Before you do that, however, make sure to puncture the sagging bulge in the ceiling with a screwdriver, and catch the water that leaks out. This will prevent the bulge from getting bigger and eventually bursting.
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