When a roof leaks, it can cause a lot of trouble. It can ruin pieces of furniture inside, leave stain marks on the ceilings and walls and develop into bigger roofing problems. This is why you need to act fast the moment you notice a leak. You should take action with an immediate repair, and a professional roofer can help you get it done.

Checking the Leak’s Source

The first step to treating the problem is finding the source of the leak. This can be tricky, just because you see where the leak is doesn’t mean that’s where it actually originates. You have to check the surrounding areas to determine where the leak starts.

Professional roofing contractors in Palo Alto, California would tell you to “think like water.” This way, you can follow the leak’s source, which may involve a broken or a missing shingle. Loosed nails and unsealed roof flashing are also common causes of a leaky roof.

Roofing Contractors

You can begin by checking the leak in the attic. Bring a flashlight and start where the drip occurs. Follow the trail of wetness along framing members. You can also look for stains and watermarks on the wood. Another way to see the leak is to turn off the light and look for a hole where sunlight seeps through. Finding the source will help you patch it up easier.

Doing Emergency Repair

Roof repairs in Palo Alto should be done immediately, otherwise the problem may get worse. Once you spot a leak and determine where it’s coming from, you can apply an emergency solution with the help of plastic sheeting and 2 by 4s.

However, it’s still best to let a professional do the work, especially if you’re not as experienced with roofing. This is because covering a leak requires a certain set of skills, and because climbing on the roof could expose you to danger. Professionals on the other hand know exactly what to do, and understand roof safety guidelines by heart.

A leaky roof should never be ignored. It has to be addressed as soon as possible to ensure that your home remains protected. If left unfixed, there will always be risks of worse structural damage, costly repairs, and a collapsing roof. When hiring a contractor, always go for the experienced one. 

Source
How To Repair a Leaky Roof, home.howstuffworks.com