Have you just noticed that there’s a roof leak on your Salt Lake City property? Do you worry that the leak is going to worsen during the next storm? If so, then you need to learn everything that you should do when you notice a roof leak.
Most homeowners notice roof leaks at the worst time: during the actual storm. For that reason, you must learn what to do so that you can act fast to fix it.
See below for an in-depth guide on what to do after a roof leak is discovered; it can help you protect everything (and everyone) inside your house.
1. Adjust Your Space Accordingly
Imagine the horror of noticing, during a storm, that your Salt Lake City property leaks. One small crack in the room can lead to leaks all over your house, so you’ll need to act fast.
If there are multiple people in the house, then send someone to look for leaks in the other rooms of the house while you tend to this one.
When you notice the leak, clear the area. That means moving all of your furnishings and other belongings from where the leak is landing. You’ll want to give it a 4-foot radius. Grab a bucket or a large bowl and place it underneath the leak to catch it.
One of the biggest concerns with roof leaks is the water damage that could ensue, specifically on your floors. Use anything you can to catch the leak, then dispose of it. We don’t recommend using towels, as they can get damp rather quickly.
Once you’re finished with that area, move to the next area of your house and do the same. It’s all about protecting the integrity of your possessions until help can arrive. That requires taking more initiative.
2. Reach out to a Local Roofing Company
After you’ve taken care of all the leaks, it’s time to call in the professionals! This is the only way to ensure that the issue is solved as quickly as possible.
Make sure that the professional roofing company you hire offers the services you need. Here at Fortress Roofing, we’re happy to help Salt Lake City residents with:
- Flat Roof Repair
- Tarp Overs
- Tile Roof Repairs
- Metal Roof Repair
- Underlayment Replacement
- Shingle Repair
Make sure that you’re hiring the right roofing company for the job. Do a little research to see how their previous customers feel about their services.
Read the online reviews for a peek behind the curtain. Do the customers seem satisfied with the service they’ve received? Did any of them have a similar roof leak issue? How did the company help them fix it? What was the turnaround time?
If you’re wondering whether you need a professional roofing company or not, there are a few signs you do, such as:
- Your energy costs have skyrocketed the past few months
- The shingles on your roof are missing or cracked
- You’re experiencing leaks after wind-driven rain or an ice build-up
- There are stains on the ceilings
- Your house has bad odors in certain areas of the property
3. Take Photos of Everything
While you might have proper home insurance in place, you never want to leave any doubt in their mind when you tell your side of the story. Without sufficient evidence, the provider might refuse to cover the damages.
Take as many photos as you can. Take photos of the leaks inside your home, the time of day, the conditions outside, any puddling on your roof, etc.
These photos can help you double down on your claim, as well as show proof of the damaged items and features of your house.
4. Tarp the Roof Off
Granted, a reputable roofing company in Salt Lake City will come to your house quickly and offer to do this service for you. That said, if they can’t get there quickly for some reason, you might consider doing it yourself.
First, you’ll have to determine the source(s) of the leak. Looked for any shingles that are warped, cracked, or missing. Cover your roof with the best kind of tarp to ensure that the water won’t seep through it.
If you notice that water is pooling in certain areas, you might consider making your way up to your attic and then poking those areas to provide some relief. Make sure that you have a bucket there to collect all the water as it drains. Don’t do this step until after you’ve tarped the area off.
5. Make Other Accommodations as Necessary
For some of you, the leaks may have been a bit more significant than most situations. If that’s the case, then you might consider making other arrangements for the time being.
Based on how quickly the Salt Lake City roofing company can make it out to you, you might see if you can hang out at a loved one’s house for a bit.
You’ll also want to walk the rest of your property for any other signs of backups, such as your gutters sagging, shingles on the ground, or tree branches that are missing. This can all be a significant threat to your roof.
What to do After a Roof Leak: Call the Experts
Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on what to do when you have a roof leak in Salt Lake City, be sure to use this information wisely.
Take the time to read this article for more information on the 7 common roof maintenance mistakes that you should avoid as a homeowner.
To receive your free estimate, give us a direct call at 801-205-6100 and we will be happy to assist you further.