How do you fix a leaky roof?
Short answer. Fixing a leaky roof happens in two stages: first contain the water inside and stop more from getting in with a temporary measure such as a properly secured tarp, then have the actual source repaired permanently once the weather allows. The temporary step protects your home and any insurance claim, and the permanent repair is usually a modest cost compared with the damage a lingering leak causes.
Stage 1: Right now
- Move belongings, catch drips and lay down towels.
- If a ceiling bulges with water, puncture it at the lowest point over a bucket to drain it.
- Turn off power to fixtures near the water.
- Take photos and video of the water, the ceiling and any visible roof damage.
Stage 2: A temporary fix
- Tarp. A heavy tarp that extends past the damaged area and over the ridge, held with wood strips screwed through the tarp into the deck, not just weighted with bricks. Do not climb a wet or steep roof yourself; tarping services exist for this.
- Roofing tape or cement. On a small, reachable, dry spot, a temporary seal can hold for a short time.
- Receipts. Many policies treat reasonable emergency mitigation costs as part of the claim, so keep them.
Stage 3: The permanent repair
Once it is dry, have the roof inspected and the true source fixed, whether a pipe boot, flashing, nail pops, shingles or a valley. A temporary patch left in place for months fails and can trap water. See common causes of roof leaks for the usual sources.
The cost of fixing vs waiting
A typical leak repair costs a few hundred dollars. Letting it go can mean rotted decking, ruined insulation, drywall replacement and mold cleanup, which cost far more and may not be covered if the leak was ignored. If a storm caused the leak, contact your insurer promptly. See emergency tarping and your duty to mitigate.