No one wants the unexpected surprise of a leaking roof, especially when you are this close to the holidays. Certain leaks are fixable by owners, but not all leaks can be repaired without the help of professionals. Here are some things to know about roof leaks and what you can do about it!

In many cases your roof will develop a leak many years before it actually needs to be replaced. These leaks are typically caused by damage in certain areas of the roof, such as cracked, missing or loose shingles or a blistered or cracked area on flat roofs. In many cases the most difficult part of repairing a leaky roof is finding the problem spot.

Use the following guide for tips and suggestions for fixing your leaky roof quickly and efficiently. However, prior to any repairs being made, you should fully understand the safety precautions that should be observed, which include:

• Repairs to a roof should only be completed on a sunny day when the roof is completely dry.
• Always be sure to use safety ropes.
• Use rubber sole shoes for the best traction.
• For steep roofs use a ladder framework for proper footing.
• Always be aware of the power lines.

Shingled Roofs

Each type of roof will require different steps for an effective repair; however, the first, obvious step is to locate the leak. When the leak is located on a shingle roof you should look for any missing, cracked or damaged shingles where the leakage may be coming from. If you do not see any obvious reasons for leaks then you may need to seek the help of a professional roofer. It may be damage to the flashing or deterioration of the shingles themselves.

Flat Roofs

When seeking the source of a leak for a flat roof, search for low areas in the roof where there may be pools of gathered water. Since these roofs are composed of layers of tar and felt, in most cases you will have found the offending area. A water blister is the most common type of leak that is associated with a flat roof and can easily be repaired.

Wooden Shake Roof

A wooden shake roof is similar to fixing a shingle roof. You want to ensure you use the same type of shake when making repairs. In many cases simply replacing the offending area will remedy your problem. However, if this does not work, it may be time to call a professional roofer.

Where Do Leaks Occur?

The leaks often occur around the flashing joints, gutters, chimneys, and at the vent pipes. Water tends to pool in these areas, which leads to an increase risk of roof leaks. If you have a roof that is left unfixed, you need to be concerned about additional problems until you hit the point where you are in need of a complete roof repair. No matter where your issue is, Kanga Roof can help! We specialize in roof repairs, and can provide you with more information on the status of your roof and if you need to start planning for a new one.