Roof leaks are the worst – not only do they risk damaging your roof itself, but they also risk damaging your attic, walls, and other interior areas. If you’ve found a leak in your roof, it’s important to patch it up as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. Here’s how to do it, from our roof repair experts:
Finding the Leak
- First, you’ll want to locate where your roof leak is.
- Head up to your attic with a bright flashlight after a heavy rain and thoroughly inspect the area.
- When you find the area that’s wet, carefully inspect it to see where exactly the hole is.
- To locate the leak on the exterior, take a measurement inside and transfer it outside.
Patching Your Roof
- Place you ladder securely up against the side of your home and climb up to your roof.
- Lift up the damaged asphalt shingle, then use your hammer to remove the nails attaching it to the roof.
- Remove the shingle and use your pry bar to lift the shingle above it.
- Cut your new asphalt shingle to the right size and slide it under the shingle above it to cover the area.
- Fasten the shingle down with your hammer and nails.
- Coat the head of each nail with roofing adhesive and press the shingle above down on top of the nails to secure.
- Once the adhesive is dry, your roof should will be patched and should be able to safely repel water.