A leaking roof is one of the most frustrating and potentially damaging issues a homeowner can face. Even a minor leak can lead to significant water damage by allowing mould growth and structural deterioration of your roofing elements if they are not addressed promptly. Understanding how to diagnose and repair a leaking roof properly is crucial to maintaining the longevity of your home and preventing costly repairs down the line.
When it comes to repairing leaking roofs, our team always recommends immediately contacting an expert roofer in your local area. With that being said, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about roof leaks and repairs and a guide on how RDW Roofing helps homeowners in Hobart, Launceston, and Tasmania address these common roofing problems.
An Expert’s Guide on Roof Leaks
You’ve just noticed water infiltration into your living space. Perhaps it’s a drip from the ceiling, a damp patch on the walls, or visible water stains on your ceiling. Whatever the case, dealing with a roof leak is always frustrating.
What’s worse, dripping can start with a very small or minor leak before developing into heavy water ingress, which can cause irreparable damage to your home. However, knowing what steps a homeowner should take will make all the difference in preventing further damage and ensuring a successful repair.
My Roof Is Leaking, What Should I Do First?
Contain the Problem Immediately
The first step is to prevent as much water damage as possible.
If you were late addressing the roof leak and it’s gotten on the floor or carpet, promptly mop and thoroughly clean the area. Roof interiors can be unsanitary, so your home must be properly sterilised from potentially dirty rainwater.
- Place buckets, towels, or plastic containers under the roof leak to collect water.
- If water is accumulating in a bulging ceiling, we recommend very carefully poking a hole in the centre to allow drainage and prevent collapse.
- To prevent water damage, keep furniture, electronics, and valuables away from the affected roof leak.
Identify the Source of the Roof Leak
As mentioned above, we strongly recommend this step be completed by a roofing expert. When addressing leaking roof repairs, our team at RDW Roofing will first check the roof interior to locate the exact point of the leak. This is because water can often travel along beams and rafters before dripping into your home so it’s impossible to know the source of a roof leak without getting into the attic.
We may inspect your home interior and look for the following:
- Water stains or discolouration on the ceiling
- Damp or peeling paint on walls
- Mould or mildew growth
- Dripping water, particularly after rain
Once in the attic, we’ll look for damp insulation, water stains, or active drips. We’ll also inspect the roof externally to look for signs of missing or cracked tiles, cracked ridge capping, peeled or rusted flashing, and more. We’ll then likely perform a water ingress test.
What’s a Water Ingress Test?
A water ingress test is the most accurate way to determine the source of a roof leak. It involves systematically spraying water onto different sections of your roof while someone inside the roof attic monitors for signs of leakage. It’s best to start from the lowest point of the roof and work upwards, allowing time for water to seep in. A water ingress test is the most reliable way to identify hidden roof leaks that might not be obvious at first glance.
Assess the Severity of the Leak
Once the source and cause has been identified, we make an assessment of the overall damage and determine the cost and steps one should take to address them.
Small Roof Leaks
These may be caused by minor cracks in roof tiles or slight wear in the roofing material. Water may drip in slowly, causing stains on ceilings and walls. A small leak can sometimes be repaired temporarily with roofing sealant or a patching compound to minimise immediate damage; however, the core issue must eventually be addressed to prevent extensive damage. For example, if there are missing or cracked roof tiles, these need to be replaced by an expert to solve the issue. Sometimes, leaks can be further exacerbated by water pooling on the roof from clogged gutters, so calling an expert to remove debris may help divert water properly.
Large Roof Leaks
These are more severe and can result from multiple broken roof tiles, significant flashing damage, or large gaps in roofing material. If a large volume of water enters, structural damage becomes a genuine concern, and professional intervention is essential as soon as possible. Our team may apply a waterproof tarp over the leaking section for significant roof leaks to prevent further water intrusion. In many cases a complete restoration could be the only option as extensive leaks tend to come with damage throughout the roofs structure.
Call an Expert Roofer in Your Local Area for a Thorough & Comprehensive Inspection
Even if you manage a temporary fix, a professional inspection is crucial to ensure the problem is fully resolved. A licensed roofer will:
- Inspect the entire roof for hidden damage. We’ll not only address the immediate issue; we’ll employ measurable steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again and adequately fix any damage caused by the initial roof leak.
- Provide expert advice on whether a minor repair or a replacement is necessary. Your roof is the protector of your home, and unaddressed damage can eventually lead to tens of thousands (or more) of wasted money.
- A reliable roofing team will provide workmanship warranties; we at RDW Roofing offer our clients peace of mind by providing a 10-year artistry warranty on any work our team completes.
Prevent Future Leaks
Once your roof leak has been properly repaired, regular maintenance is essential to avoid future leaks. Consider:
- Routine Inspections – Have your roof checked every few years for any signs of damage. After severe storms, we recommend a roofing inspection even sooner.
- Cleaning Gutters & Downspouts – Blocked gutters can cause water buildup, leading to leaks and roof damage, so we recommend you get them cleaned periodically.
- Replacing Worn Tiles & Flashing – one of the simplest ways a homeowner can prevent costly roof leak repairs is by trusting an expert to address minor wear and tear before it becomes a major issue.
- Sealing Around Vents, Chimneys, & Skylights – These areas are common leak points and should be resealed periodically by an expert.
Reach Out to Our Team of Roof Repair Experts
A leaking roof can cause extensive damage if not dealt with promptly, which can, unfortunately, lead to tens of thousands of wasted dollars in roof (and home) repairs. The key is to act quickly. First, contain the roof leak, identify its source, and seek professional repair services. By staying proactive with maintenance and inspections, you can substantially extend the lifespan of your roof and prevent future problems from arising.
If you’re dealing with a roof leak, don’t wait until the damage worsens—reach out to our expert team at RDW Roofing. Our licenced and insured team offers Roof Repairs in Hobart, Roof Repairs in Launceston, as well as Tasmania’s North West Coast. Contact our team of experts and get a free quote today!
