Dealing with a roof leak can be a real headache. A small drip might seem harmless, but it can quickly turn into serious damage. The good news? You can fix many leaks yourself if you know what to look for. Here’s a simple guide on roof leak repair in Westchester using different roofing materials.
Find the Source of the Leak
Before fixing anything, you need to figure out where the water is coming from. Roof leaks are tricky; the water often travels before it shows up inside.
Here’s how to find the leak:
- Check the attic for water stains, mold, or black marks.
- Look for damaged shingles or cracks on the roof.
- Inspect flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights.
- Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup.
Once you’ve found the source, it’s time to start the repair.
Fixing Leaks in Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are common in most homes. They’re durable but can crack or go missing over time.
Common Causes:
- Cracked or missing shingles
- Damaged flashing
- Old sealant around vents
How to Fix It:
- Replace damaged shingles:
- Lift the shingle above the damaged one.
- Remove nails and pull out the broken shingle.
- Slide in a new shingle and nail it in place.
- Repair flashing:
- If the leak is near a vent or chimney, check the metal flashing.
- Remove old caulk and apply fresh roofing sealant.
- Seal small cracks:
- Use roofing cement to fill in any minor cracks or holes.
Pro Tip: After a storm, always check your roof. High winds can loosen shingles and cause leaks.
Fixing Metal Roof Leaks
Metal roofs are strong and long-lasting. But they can still develop leaks from rust or loose screws.
Common Causes:
- Rust spots
- Loose screws
- Worn-out sealant
How to Fix It:
- Tighten screws:
- Check for any loose screws and tighten them.
- Replace missing screws with new ones.
- Patch holes:
- Clean the area around the hole.
- Apply a metal roofing patch and cover it with sealant.
- Seal seams:
- Use waterproof roofing tape to cover gaps between metal panels.
Important: Always use a sealant made for metal roofs. Regular caulk won’t hold up.
Also Read: What Are Common Causes of Emergency Roof Damage
Fixing Flat Roof Leaks
Flat roofs are often found on commercial buildings. But they’re prone to water pooling, which leads to leaks.
Common Causes:
- Punctures from foot traffic
- Cracked seams
- Standing water
How to Fix It:
- Clean the area:
- Remove dirt, debris, and water from the leak area.
- Apply a roofing patch:
- Use a rubber patch to cover the leak.
- Smooth it out with a roller to ensure it sticks well.
- Improve drainage:
- If water pools on your roof, you may need to adjust the drainage system.
Flat roofs need regular checks to catch problems early.
Fixing Tile Roof Leaks
Tile roofs look great but can leak if tiles crack or move out of place.
Common Causes:
- Cracked tiles
- Damaged underlayment
- Loose flashing
How to Fix It:
- Replace broken tiles:
- Carefully remove the damaged tile.
- Slide in a new tile and secure it with adhesive.
- Repair the underlayment:
- Lift nearby tiles to replace torn underlayment.
- Make sure the new layer overlaps properly.
- Check flashing:
- Look for gaps in the metal flashing.
- Use roofing sealant to fix any cracks.
Tip: Always use tiles that match your existing roof to keep the look consistent.
Fixing Rubber Roof Leaks
Rubber roofs (EPDM) are popular for flat roofs. They’re flexible but can still tear.
Common Causes:
- Cracked seams
- Tears in the rubber membrane
- Poor adhesive
How to Fix It:
- Clean the area:
- Wipe down the area around the leak.
- Use a rubber cleaner to remove dirt.
- Patch the hole:
- Cut a rubber patch slightly larger than the hole.
- Apply adhesive to both the patch and the roof.
- Press the patch down firmly.
- Seal the edges:
- Use seam tape to cover the patch edges.
- Press it down with a roller for a tight seal.
Keep a rubber patch kit handy for quick fixes.
When to Call a Professional
Some leaks are easy to fix, but others need a pro’s touch. If the leak keeps coming back or the damage is big, it’s time to call an expert.
Here’s when to call Delta Roofing Westchester:
- If you see sagging in your roof
- If the leak covers a large area
- If you can’t find the source
We provide expert Roof Leak Repair in Westchester for all roof types. Our team knows how to handle everything from shingles to metal roofs. We’re licensed, insured, and experienced.
Don’t wait for a small leak to become a big problem. Call Delta Roofing Westchester for reliable roof repairs. We’re here to keep your home safe and dry.
