How To Cope With A Leaking Roof
A leaking roof is one of the most common issues that homeowners face. It can be stressful to find that your roof is leaking during inclement weather and you may become anxious. However, before you launch into a DIY project that may be more treacherous than you think, take a look at the important things you need to know about dealing with a leaking roof.
Calm Down
The last thing you should be doing is fussing to find a leak when it is raining, even worse if the roof is covered in ice and snow. This is not the time to try to patch a leak. You will just have to live with it until the weather clears up. When the weather clears up make sure that you wear shoes that have rubber soles on the roof. Wear a harness if possible and bring someone with you as a backup.
Find the Leak
The best way to find the leak quickly is not to depend on the naked eye. Take a hose with you and start spraying the area of the roof where you suspect that there is a leak. If it is winter you may want to wait until the weather is not freezing cold. This will help you to find the leak a lot quicker and easier.
Clean Gutters
Depending on how bad the leak is you may be able to fix it yourself or call a professional. Regardless of what you do to get the leak fixed, you should make sure that your gutters are clean. It's possible that other leaks will occur in the future if water backs up in your gutter and starts pooling on your roof.
Ventilate Your Roof
If your roof does not receive proper ventilation it will begin to dry rot. Dry rot does not occur due to water damage on your roof. It is a product of a lack of ventilation. You can know that dry rotting is the issue because the roof shingles will become brittle and crack. The best way to fix this situation is to install a ridge vent in your roof.
Leaking roofs are not pleasant and is one of the worse inconveniences that any homeowner can face. Leaks can make your home uncomfortable at those times when comfort is all you seek. The last thing you want is to deal with a leak when it is raining or snowing but if you have to, remember that your safety is paramount. Follow these tips to help you understand what to look for. Make sure that you stop problems before they start by dealing with your gutters and ventilating your roof.
For more information, contact a company such as Ray's Harford Home Improvement Contractors Inc.