As a homeowner, it can be both exciting and overwhelming to buy a new house and get settled in. The chaos of moving day is exhausting, but once you’ve unpacked, all is well…until it isn’t.
While you may have checked off all the boxes on your wish list and found your dream home, there are often unexpected or overlooked issues that can pop up over time. In recent years, some people are opting to waive thorough roof inspections when buying a home in hopes that they’ll be able to close the sale sooner and surpass the competition! Unfortunately, that can lead to house problems later.
One common issue that homeowners may face is a leaky roof. If you’ve recently purchased a home and are trying to figure out how to fix a leaking roof, here’s what you should do:
If the leak is currently happening and is severe, it’s important to secure the area and keep it clean. If the leak is really bad, it’s best to call a professional roofing contractor immediately. They can assess the situation and take the necessary steps to repair the leaking roof and prevent further damage to your home.
Even if you’ve already identified a leak, it’s a good idea to make sure that it is indeed coming from the roof. There are a few ways to do this, including inspecting your attic for water stains and checking your gutters for debris that may be causing a blockage. Make sure to turn off the electricity before you mess with anything in the ceiling- water and sparks are not a safe combination! If you’re unsure about how to confirm a leaky roof, it’s best to consult with a professional roof installer so they can do it safely.
There are several reasons why a roof may leak, including damaged shingles, clogged gutters, and faulty flashing. If there’s a hole in your roof, that’s an easy answer (and one of the most common causes of roof leaks.) Incomplete flashing can cause water to flow behind the gutter instead of into it, which leads to seepage. Can clogged gutters lead to roof leaks? Yep. Clear out the gutter and see if that stops the dripping.
It’s important to determine the cause of the leakage in order to fix it properly. While you may be tempted to climb up on the roof and inspect it yourself, prioritizing safety is important. If you’re not comfortable or experienced with inspecting a roof, it’s best to hire a professional to do it for you.
Roof leak repair will depend on the cause of the problem. If it’s a simple cause-and-effect situation, such as replacing damaged shingles or clearing out clogged gutters, you may be able to do it yourself. Some people are easily able to repair their leaking roof with a little help from tools and research. Learn more about how clogged gutters lead to roof and ceiling leaks.
However, if the cause of the leak is more complex, it’s best to hire a professional roofing contractor to assess the situation. You may find that a roof installation is needed to stop the leaking for good. It’s also a good idea to check with your home insurance policy to see if the repair is covered. You don’t want to leave money on the table when you don’t have to!
Sometimes, there’s not much you can do for your roof except replace it. Depending on how old your roof is, it might be a better financial decision to get a new roof instead of spending lots of money patching something that will continue to leak. A new roof may even increase your home value.
The average lifespan of a roof will depend on the type of material it’s made of. Asphalt shingles, for example, typically last for about 20-30 years, while metal roofs can last for 50 years or more. If you’re unsure about the age or condition of your roof, it’s a good idea to have a professional inspect it.
If you’ve recently purchased a home and are experiencing issues that may be a result of a leaky roof, it’s important to take action as soon as possible to prevent any further damage. Whether it’s a simple roof repair fix or a more complex issue, it’s best to consult with a professional like LeafGuard Gutters and Roofing. We can ensure you get the proper direction on how to fix the leak in the most efficient way possible.
Contact us today to learn more about how our roof repair or replacement solutions can stop your leak for good. Our team will happily assist you with answers, educate you on the best option for your unique situation, and offer you a complimentary consultation at your home.
