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IUniversity of Wisconsin-Extension
You may be anxious to stop a roof from leaking, but don't
risk serious injury trying to inspect or repair it. First,
try binoculars for a closer view. Next, check the attic for
a drip trail. Leaks are rarely located directly above the
water spot on the ceiling. When you find a leak in the attic,
push a nail, straw or wire through it to help you or a repair
person locate it outside.
If
rain continues to be a problem and a repair person is unavailable,
follow the directions at right for temporary relief. But be
sure that only a physically able person gets on the roof for
these emergency measures. Unsteadiness on the ladder or roof
can lead to severe injuries.
Cover
holes in the roof, walls or windows with boards, tarps or
plastic sheeting. Nail down plastic sheets or trash bags with
strips of wood and secure them with duct tape. If the holes
are large, you may need to support the plastic in the center
to keep it from ripping from the weight of the rain.
If sections
of the roof or floors are sagging, have a contractor or other
knowledgeable person brace weak areas. Improper bracing may
increase damage and the chance of injury, so do not attempt
this work unless you are experienced in structural repairs.
Storm
and wind damage are responsible for some roof problems. Others
are caused by defective materials, faulty construction or
gradual deterioration. Here are some common causes of leaks:
- Defective
flashing. Flashing is the sheet metal used in waterproofing
roof valleys, hips and the angle between a chimney and a
roof. Wet spots near a chimney or outside wall may mean
the leak is caused by defective flashing, narrow flashing
or loose mortar joints. Look for corroded, loose or displaced
flashing on sloping roof valleys and at junctions of dormers
and roof.
- Clogged
downspouts or eaves. Check for choked downspouts. Accumulated
water or snow on the roof above the flashing may cause a
leak. Ice accumulations on eaves sometimes form ridges,
which cause melting snow to back up under the shingles.
- Cracks
and deterioration. Roofing (especially wood or composition
shingles) usually deteriorates first on southern exposures.
Check southern slopes for cracking or deterioration.
- Holes.
Missing shingles or holes in the roofing may be causing
wet spots. To find holes, check for a drip trail or spot
of light coming through in the attic. Stick a nail, straw
or wire through the hole to mark the spot on the outside.
Methods
of repair will depend on the kind of roofing and the nature
and extent of the leak. Unless you are experienced, hire a
professional roofer for this work. Missing shingles should
be replaced, holes repaired and cracks filled. Whatever method
is used, avoid walking on patched sections.
Additional resources:
Your county family living agent, your local emergency government office, the American Red Cross, the Federal Emergency Management Agency
Related publications:
"Repairing Your Flooded Home," American Red Cross/Federal Emergency Management Agency, 1992.
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NASD Review: 04/2002
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