Roof leaks are annoying and can happen to anyone (and often do!). If you find your roof leaking in heavy rain, or any time at all, this is an issue you need to address promptly.
When you notice these leaks, it’s important to deal with them immediately to avoid any further damage occurring within your property. Let’s chat about the reasons behind a roof leak, and some quick fixes before you can get a permanent solution from the Plan B Plumbing team!
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?
While you may think the signs are always obvious, there are a few to look out for!
- Water leaking from the ceiling
- Water stains spread across the ceiling
- Water streaks down the walls in your property
- Water stains appeared as a puddle on the ceiling, with brown rings around
- Smaller water stains in darker corners (this can be a large warning sign of significant damage)
- Water spots on exterior walls
- Exterior walls are covered in moss, mould or algae.
WHAT COULD BE CAUSING THE LEAKS?
Now you know the symptoms to look out for, but what could be causing them?
Clogged Gutters
If your gutters are overdue for a clean and have been left for a while, water will not be able to travel away from your roof and foundation, potentially causing a roof leak.
Missing/Cracked Roof Shingles
If your roof has damage, this must be repaired ASAP to prevent leaking and water damage.
Leaking Skylight
If you have a skylight, there could be a leak around the rubber seal bordering the skylight. Water can get through this seal, dripping into the interior of your property.
Poorly Installed Roof Membrane
If your roof membrane or roof sarking has been improperly installed, it may be punctured over time, creating a leak.
Old, Tired Roofing
As the elements in your roof exceed their life expectancy, they will start to break down, which can jeopardise your roof’s integrity. If this is the case, it may be time to renew your roof or re-apply your roof waterproofing.
WHAT CAN YOU DO WHEN YOU IDENTIFY A LEAK?
1. Protect Your Possessions
When you identify a leak, the first thing you need to do is to protect your possessions that are at risk of water damage. This means moving away from furniture, rugs, electronics and any other items that surround the risk. If you can’t move these from their positions, try to cover them with plastic or tarps.
2. Try To Contain The Water
If you have a dripping leak, grab a bucket and position them directly under the leak to catch the incoming water. If the leak is rapid, make sure you have 2 vessels to catch the water, emptying one while the other fills up to catch the water.
3. Soak Up The Water
Grab some old towels or a mop to soak up the water. We want to prevent mould, so try to jump on this quickly. Turn on a fan if it is safe and possible!
4. Call Plan B Plumbing
The above are all short term solutions to fix the symptoms, but you need to solve the actual issue! That’s where the professionals at Plan B Plumbing come in. Servicing Oakleigh, Chadstone, Malvern East, Caulfield, Bentleigh, Moorabbin, Clarinda and Clayton, as well as surrounding suburbs, Plan B is here to solve your plumbing problems! Contact us today.
