Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home’s structure. It protects your home from the elements, keeps you dry, and keeps your family safe. In Minnesota, fluctuating temperatures and year-round storms aren’t always kind to our roofs. Regular wear and tear can be to blame for sudden leaks, but storm damage is also incredibly common.
So, what happens when your roof suddenly needs emergency repairs? How can you resolve the issue on your own, and when is it time to call in the pros? Here are six emergency roofing repair tips every homeowner should know.
1. Safety First
Before you begin any emergency roof repair, you must ensure your safety. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses. If you need to climb on your roof, use a sturdy ladder and have someone else hold it steady. Never climb on your roof if it is wet, icy, or windy. As painful as it may be to have to wait until the storm has passed before you can safely stop the leak, your health and safety are even more important than keeping your home protected against water damage.
2. Stop the Water
If your roof is leaking, you’ll have to do everything possible to stop the water from coming in. Use a tarp or plastic sheeting to cover the area that is leaking from the outsider. If water is dripping through the ceiling, put a bucket under the drip to prevent further damage to your home’s interior.
3. Remove Debris
If your roof has suffered damage from a storm or fallen branches, you may need to remove any debris that has accumulated on your roof. Be careful not to damage your shingles or other roofing materials as you clear away the debris. If you cannot reach the debris from a ladder, leave it; it’s risky to walk on a damaged roof without knowing whether it is still structurally sound.
4. Patch the Roof
If you have a small hole or tear in your roof, you may be able to patch it yourself until you can have a contractor assess the damage. Roofing cement and silicone caulk can both be used to seal up a small hole. Apply the material generously and smooth it out with a putty knife. Roofing tape can also be used to seal leaks and cracks in your roof temporarily. Both of these methods will provide a waterproof seal until you can make a permanent repair.
5. Replace Shingles
If your roof has missing or damaged shingles, you should replace them as soon as possible. To replace a shingle, use a pry bar to lift the shingle above the damaged one. Then use a hammer and nails to secure the new shingle in place. If you aren’t comfortable completing these repairs yourself, move onto the next tip.
6. Call a Minnesota Roofing Professional
If your roof has suffered significant damage or you are unsure how to repair it yourself, it is best to call a professional roofing contractor. They can assess the damage and make the necessary repairs quickly and efficiently.
Emergency roof leak repairs can be daunting, but these tips can help you manage the situation safely and effectively. Remember to always prioritize safety, stop the water from coming in, and consider calling Precision Exteriors if you’re not confident in your roof emergency repair skills. Our roofing emergency team offers immediate roof repair to fix temporary problems. We’ll also work diligently to submit the necessary information to your homeowner’s insurance company and have your claim approved quickly so your roof can be fully repaired or replaced – the right way.