At some point in time, nearly all homes will need the services of an experienced roofing contractor in Sunnyvale to fix a roof leak. If you have never dealt with a roof leak before, you might not have realized all of the different techniques that roofing contractors can use to protect your home and the belongings inside of it. Some of these techniques offer temporary protection from the elements while you wait for permanent repairs to be made or a new roof to be installed.

roofing-service

Tarps

If a large section of your home’s roof has been damaged and is leaking, one technique that roofing contractors in Sunnyvale will use is to cover the damaged area with tarps. Large, blue polyurethane tarps are secured to your home’s roof with pieces of scrap lumber. They may also be anchored to the ground for additional protection. These tarps are watertight and will help to protect your roof until permanent repairs can be made. Roofing contractors often use this technique if numerous homes in the same area or locale have experienced roofing damage due to a severe storm and there is a waiting list for roofing installation or emergency roof repair services.

Galvanized Metal Sheeting

When a small section of your roof needs to be repaired, roofers may attach a piece of galvanized steel sheeting to the affected area. The sheeting deflects water away from the missing shingles and acts as a type of flashing. The metal sheet is inserted under the first row of undamaged shingles and is held into place with roofing nails.

Polyethylene Sheeting

Minor residential roof leaks can be covered with polyethylene sheeting. This inexpensive material comes in large rolls and the roofing contractors trim it to size. The sheeting will be cut 1 to 2 feet longer and wider than the damaged area and secured to your roof using 2 by 4 lumber and roofing staples. If your ceiling is dripping on the interior of your home, this sheeting can also be used inside to catch any remaining moisture or water coming through your attic. This emergency repair lasts until the contractors are able to make permanent roofing repairs.

Sources:
How to Handle and Emergency Roof Repair, AngiesList.com
How to Find & Fix a Roof Leak, HomeTips.com