If your roof is leaking during heavy rain in San Diego, here are several steps you can take based on expert advice:
Contain the Water:
Place buckets, pots, or any containers under the leaks to catch the water. If the leak is significant, keep a spare bucket handy to replace the one that fills up. Use towels or mops to soak up any water on the floor to minimize damage.
Protect Valuables:
Move furniture, electronics, and other valuables away from the leaking area to prevent water damage. If items are too heavy to move, cover them with plastic sheets or tarps.
Find and Mark the Leak:
If safe, attempt to locate the source of the leak. This might involve checking the attic for signs of water entry during or after the rain has stopped. Mark the spot or take note for future reference when professional roofers come to inspect it.
Temporary Fixes:
If you can access the roof safely and it’s dry enough, you might apply temporary patches like roofing tar or putty to seal small leaks. However, this is generally not advised during active rain; it’s more of an after-the-rain strategy.
Contact A Local Roofing Company:
Immediately call a licensed, insured roofing contractor in San Diego, such as our professionals here at Alma Roofing. We can provide emergency services like tarping or sealing to stop the leak until a permanent fix can be arranged. Due to the demand during rainstorms, getting in touch early is crucial.
Document the Damage:
Once the immediate threat is managed, take photos of any internal damage for insurance claims or for your contractor to understand the extent of the issue.
Post-Rain Check-Up:
After the rain stops, but before the next rain, have your roof professionally inspected. Even if you managed a temporary fix, there could be underlying damage or issues that require professional repair or replacement.
Prevent Future Leaks:
Schedule regular roof inspections, especially before the rainy season, to ensure issues like missing shingles, damaged flashing, or clogged gutters are addressed proactively.
Remember, while these steps can help manage the immediate situation, professional assessment and repair are essential to prevent further damage. Always prioritize safety, especially when dealing with wet, slippery roofs, and leave climbing onto the roof to professionals unless you are fully equipped and trained to handle such conditions.
