The discovery of a roof leak can be highly disturbing, especially if you understand the various ways that a leak can lead to widespread damage to your home’s structure and furnishings. Proactive maintenance can help you prevent leaks from progressing to the interior of your home. Unfortunately, however, not every leak is preventable. Roofing companies in Texas are quite familiar with leaks that develop suddenly in the immediate aftermath of a major thunderstorm, hailstorm, or another weather event. It is wise for homeowners in Central Texas to have a contingency plan for dealing with unexpected leaks.
Can I Just Call a Roof Company to Perform an Emergency Repair?
If the interior of your home is open to the elements, it qualifies as an emergency. However, this does not mean that a roofing company will dispatch a repair crew to climb onto your roof while the storm is still raging. It is much more likely that the roof contractor will wait until the storm passes and the sun rises to send a crew. Furthermore, if the damage in your area is widespread, the Austin roofer you prefer may have many calls ahead of yours. Therefore, it will probably be up to you to deal with the leak for at least a few hours.
What Steps Should I Take During a Roof Leak?
The first thing to do is to remain calm. Do not try to make a repair that requires you to climb onto your roof during the storm or while your roof is still wet. The second step is to call a reputable Austin roofer to schedule an emergency repair. Every step after that involves preventing additional damage and dealing with the water that has invaded your home.
1. If possible, move any furniture or other belongings that may lie directly under a leak. If you cannot move them, use a plastic drop cloth or tarp to protect them.
2. Go into your attic to search for the source of the leak. The source may be directly over the point where water is leaking into your interior, but it may also be located several feet away. If you can identify the source, use a strong tape to secure a tarp beneath the source; do not nail the tarp into the roof deck as this can create additional leaks. If the leak is a large one, put a small hole in the center of the drop cloth or tarp, then place a bucket underneath to collect the water. Check the bucket periodically and empty it as necessary.
3. If you cannot find the source of the leak, you can affix a tarp to your ceiling or place a bucket to collect the water.
4. Mop up any water on hard-surfaced floors and remove any water on wood or glass furniture. Blot any wet rugs, carpets, or upholstered furniture.
5. Always put safety first. If it is possible to do so safely, unplug any electrical items from sockets near the leak. If your roof has suffered extensive damage, you may need to evacuate all occupants, including your pets, to avoid injury should the roof collapse. Do not use a typical household vacuum cleaner on wet carpets or rugs.
For a Central Texas or Austin roof replacement, maintenance plan, or emergency repair, contact Alpha Roofing Industries. We are an award-winning roofing company providing an extensive range of services, including metal roofing systems, asphalt shingle, and flat roof replacements, emergency roofing repairs, skylight installations, economical routine roofing maintenance programs, chimney repairs, and roof leaks. We are known for our professional customer service, exceptional craftsmanship, and competitive rates. You can request a free quote by completing the online form or calling 512-777-1086.