Out of nowhere, your roof springs a leak, a bad one where water gushes inside. Or perhaps you’re sitting in your home and noticing the dampness of your ceiling in one or more areas. “Where did that come from, and how do I get rid of it?” you ask yourself.

Maybe you’ve known for a while that your roof needs repair. However, you’ve put it off because you just don’t have time to deal with it. Suddenly, a giant thunderstorm rips through your area and unleashes a torrent of rain, some flooding through your roof.

Emergency roof leak repair. These words scare many homeowners. They imagine a drawn-out battle with a roofer that will cost them much more than they can afford. They surmise that they will be told to replace the existing roof with an expensive new one.

If the thought of an emergency roof leak repair sends shivers down your spine, don’t worry anymore. As a homeowner, you have options to minimize the damage from an emergency roof leak that won’t break the bank or create unending frustration and heartache.

A chart outlaying the average cost of a roof repair after a hail storm.

8 Ways To Minimize Damage From An Emergency Roof Leak

Evidence of a roof leak inside your attic

A responsible homeowner must take steps to mitigate damage to their home following a storm (or other adverse weather event.) Employing the following measures reflects a commitment by the homeowner to reduce issues (short-term and long-range.):

Heavy-duty tarps can be purchased at most home improvement stores. Cover impacted areas (i.e., holes in the roof) using tarps with bungee cords (or other measures to secure the tarps). Ensure you, as the homeowner, can accomplish this task securely without risking an accident. This may involve the use of scaffolding or ladders. If you cannot complete this crucial responsibility safely, or do not have the tools & equipment to do so, involve a roofing company to assist.

Touching base with your homeowner’s insurance provider at the outset does not mean you file a claim just yet. It simply reflects your willingness to keep them apprised of the situation. Your agent may have recommendations regarding what to do next, including who to contact. Taking this step may improve your likelihood of successfully receiving approval for a filed claim.

If you observe damage to your home due to moisture intrusion, do your best to source the problem. Pinpoint it to whatever damage has caused it. However, make sure to investigate this matter safely. Take appropriate safeguards against the risk of injury. Better yet, involve a knowledgeable roofing contractor who can work with you to locate the issue and stop the leaking.

Pull out your camera phone. It probably can record video as well. Snap photos and record videos of the damage. Track and record everything. Document in writing using detailed descriptions of what you observe and believe happened. Save any estimates, invoices, and bills you receive. Employ all of these measures with your safety in mind. Don’t take any unnecessary risks.

Once you have documented the extent of damage to your property, you should remove any debris contributing to the moisture intrusion. Make sure you take this proactive step responsibly and safely. At the same time, check gutters and downspouts for clogs. Clean them if necessary. Blocked gutters can produce significant issues.

After you have controlled the situation by plugging up leaks and sources of moisture intrusion, be responsible for drying indoor areas, including walls, ceilings, and attic spaces. Utilize drying equipment. Borrow a wet/dry vacuum. Purchase one or more fans. Take any step necessary to soak up excess water. The quicker you dry out your interior space, the fewer long-term issues.

If water continues streaming into your home (even after taking other measures to eliminate moisture intrusion), use buckets (or similar large containers) to catch dripping water. Involve rags, towels, and other cloth materials to soak up damp areas. Don’t permit a continuous leak to pool inside your home. Pooling water is a major contributor to the formation of mold and mildew.

Before taking any of the above steps, contact a trusted roofing contractor. Although many roofers are not available 24/7, some of them provide around-the-clock service. These particular roofers know the value of availability to homeowners. They also understand how important it is to be prompt because time is of the essence in the immediate aftermath of a dire situation.

At Yellowhammer Roofing, we know the precious importance of reliability. We won’t put you on hold when you contact us following a damaging storm. To the contrary! We will respond quickly and answer all your questions. We will help you assess the damage and guide you on what steps to take next. We also help mitigate further damage and work with you on any insurance claim.
For all your roofing needs or when you need us in a pinch, contact Yellowhammer Roofing today.

8 Ways To Minimize Damage From An Emergency Roof Leak

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