Roof leaks can be nasty to deal with and it will give you a headache since it’s due for another repair.
Luckily, there are a few methods you can follow to temporarily fix your roof without having to get a professional to do it for you… yet. Just know that this fix is temporary, and you will still need the help of a trained professional who will patch up your roof using quality materials to give it a permanent fix.
For now, these are the temporary fixes that you can DIY for your leaking roof.
1. Tarps
Tarps are one method of temporarily fixing a leaking roof. Hiring a handyman to cover the roof with tarps will stop water from getting into the gaps, allowing it to run off into the gutters. Tarps can be easily blown away by the wind, so that’s something to consider when choosing tarps. Also, handymen are not professional roofers so they may not be able to temporarily fix the leak as well as you hope.
2. Roof cement, silicone and sealant
Using roof cement, silicone or a rubber sealant could also work as a temporary fix for your leaking roof. Roof cement works best in dry conditions,Some leaks may only require silicone. This product works best on smaller holes as a temporary fix. Rubber sealants can also be effective, particularly if you’re forced to make the temporary repair under wet conditions. Again, hiring a handyman to do this is only a temporary fix and not a suitable alternative to getting in a professional roofer. Source: Royce Roofing
3. Tar Paper & Roofing Felt
If plastic sheeting or tarps won’t cut it, then you can always do a more involved DIY patch job with tar paper and roof felt. It’s a good idea to keep some plastic roofing cement in case of these roofing emergencies. This roofing cement can be applied to tar paper with a trowel, putty knife, or a caulk gun.
You can layer up the tar paper, alternating between the tar paper and the spread of cement. Adding roofing felt makes for another layer of protection between the shingles and roof decking for when you need a more durable temporary solution to keep water out. Source: Feldco
4. Patching (or Plugging)
Patching roof leaks using roofing tape is also a potential solution. If you notice where the roof leak is coming from inside your attic, simply apply roofing tape to the area. This is a much safer way to remedy the leak and is the best option for anyone not comfortable getting up on their roof (especially if you don’t have someone to assist with holding the ladder). This method will work if the rain has stopped, but the adhesive properties of the tape may wear away if it is still raining hard.
Another option in line with patching a roof repair is plugging. Using water and a powder that is similar to roofing cement, you can pour it into the top of your roof leak where the damage is. The mixture will then dry solid and stop water from getting in. However, it won’t work for a super long time. Eventually, you’ll need to repeat the process until a professional roofer can come by and fix the issue. Source: Eagle Eye Roofing
Remember, these fixes are just temporary, and you need to contact a roofing contractor as soon as possible. If you’re looking for one, just pick up the phone and give us a call!
Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
168 W 71st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5X 4S7
(604) 360-2114
