How to Stop a Leaking Roof During Heavy Rain

Written on the 17 January 2023 by MRA Roofing & Construction

As a homeowner, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your home from water damage caused by heavy rainstorms. While some roof leaks are inevitable, there are several proactive measures you can take to minimize any potential damage. In this blog post, we will discuss seven key steps that can help stop a leaking roof during heavy rain and keep you and your family safe in the process.  From identifying the source of the leak to fixing a tarp sheeting, these tips will ensure that your home is well-protected from future disasters. So, let’s get started!

1. Identify the source of the leak

Identifying the source of a roof leak can become a complicated matter, especially if the roof is composed of multiple layers and if it has been some time since your last inspection. However, with a little bit of effort and patience, you can locate the source of your roof's leak. One effective strategy is to start from the interior and work your way outside. If you spot water stains or mould on inner walls or ceilings that suddenly appear during rainy spells, chances are that this is a sign that there is a roof leak above. It would be helpful to have both binoculars and a flashlight; with these tools you can find cracks along the roof lines and any points where two different panels meet up. You should also look out for rust-coloured trails in places such as gutters or near any chimneys -- these are signs that water has made its way down from above! Once you have identified the source of your leak, you can take care of it right away before more serious damage happens.

2. Cover the area with a tarp or plastic sheeting

When faced with a leaking roof, using a tarp or plastic sheeting to cover the affected area is a smart option. Not only do these materials offer temporary protection against further rain falling through the roof, but they also serve as a barrier to prevent further damage to building contents. Tarpaulin and plastic sheeting are comparatively inexpensive and easy to install, so it makes sense to immediately cover any damaged areas of your roof with them while you wait for permanent repairs. This way, you can be sure that no additional damage will occur while you look into more long-term solutions.

3. Secure the covering with duct tape, nails, or screws if necessary

Securing tarp or plastic sheeting to a leaking roof may seem daunting, but it can be done quickly and efficiently with the right tools. To start, make sure that the tarp or plastic sheeting is at least 2 feet wider than the affected area of roof and cut slits up from each corner. Once applied to the roof, drive clamps or nails through each slit at each corner and again around the edge every foot, providing a secure hold. If you don't have clamps or nails available, then heavy duty staples placed securely into rafters or trusses will do just as good of a job. Adding multiple layers of overlapping material creates an even more water-resistant seal. Finally, finish by sealing all seams with caulking or duct tape to complete your patch and keep your leaking problem contained until a permanent solution can be implemented.

4. Check for any other signs of damage and repair them immediately

Taking the time to attend to any potential damage on a leaking roof is essential in order to ensure a safe and secure home. In addition to attending to the leak itself, homeowners should also check for other problematic signs that could indicate further issues such as rusting or peeling paint, weakened structural foundations, damaged shingles, and areas of weak insulation. Every sign of weakness should be looked at in great detail and immediately fixed with quality materials in order to maintain the comfort of living indoors. Doing so will also help reduce future repair costs associated with a poorly maintained roof.

5. Make sure all gutters are clear to avoid further water accumulation on your roof 

Proper maintenance for your gutters is essential for ensuring the longevity of your roof’s condition. It is important to keep your gutters free from debris and clogs so water doesn't accumulate on your roof; significant water build-up will eventually lead to leaking that can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repairs. Taking the time to make sure all gutters are clear will help prevent future water accumulation and save you money in the long run. Early detection and clean up are two key components of protecting your roof from damage caused by pooled water and blockages, so don’t ignore those gutter clogs!

6. Contact a professional roofer to assess and fix any underlying issues that caused the leak in the first place

Regular roof maintenance is essential for preserving the integrity of your home, but in the event that a leak does occur, it is best to contact a professional roofer to conduct an assessment. Taking care of any underlying issues as soon as possible is key to avoiding further and costly damage. Roofers have experience diagnosing and fixing whatever caused the leak in the first place, ensuring that everything is back up and functioning properly so that your home stays strong and secure.

Leaking roofs can be a major headache for any homeowner. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to patch up the leak quickly and effectively until it is professionally addressed. By following these tips, such as using durable materials to cover the area of damage, clearing gutters of debris, and contacting an experienced roofer to assess the problem - you’ll have peace of mind that your home is safe from further water leaks! Don’t wait too long before tackling this issue; early detection and repair will save time, money, and headaches in the future.

At MRA Roofing and Construction, we understand the importance of taking care of any roofing problems as soon as they arise. That's why we offer quality services to help prevent further water leaks and costly damage to your home. Our experienced professionals are highly skilled in diagnosing and fixing the underlying issues that caused the leak in the first place, giving you the peace of mind that your home is secure and safe from further water damage. Contact us today for a free estimate and let our team take care of all your roofing needs!