Your roof isn’t something you ever really think about until something goes wrong and you’re suddenly forced to. Whether it’s severe rot or structural damage caused by extreme weather, it’s important to know how to make emergency roof repairs if necessary until a roofer can address the problem. Read on to learn more about tips for protecting your home during a roofing emergency.
What is a Roof Emergency?
First, let’s get clear on what’s considered a roof emergency because when one strikes, you’ll need to call in a professional to perform repairs as soon as possible, which may cost you more. There are multiples kinds of emergencies that can occur, with each potentially requiring different approaches to dealing with them. Here are some of the most common:
- A fallen tree that’s caused structural damage to the roof
- Extreme weather ripping away a portion of the roof
- A significant roof leak
- Severe rot on the roof
- A large number of missing shingles
Safety First
The safety of you and your family is the main priority. If the damage to the roof is severe, it might be necessary to make arrangements to stay elsewhere with friends, family or even at a hotel until the situation can be properly addressed and your home is safe to occupy.
Contact a Professional Roofer As Soon As Possible
Next up is to contact a reputable roofing company. When it comes to most roofing-based repairs – especially severe ones like an emergency – only a licensed roofer with experience should be contacted to deal with the situation. They’ll need to come and inspect the roof to determine the extent of damage and what type of repairs will be needed. In some cases, a roof replacement might be the only option. They can also provide a timeline so you can have a clearer idea about when you and your family can return and resume your normal routine and schedule. If the emergency happens during a timeframe where they can’t come out immediately, such as during the night, during intense weather or following severe storm damage, this is when you may have to employ some basic tactics to safeguard your home until they can arrive.
How to Make Emergency Roof Repairs
Here are some temporary measures you can take to protect your roof in the meantime:
Remove valuables
Clear the area and store any expensive items like your electronics somewhere safe and out of the way.
Use a Tarp
A tarp is your best bet for temporarily safeguarding your interior. Stretch it out over the damaged area and secure it in place as tightly as possible using nails and roofing cement over top of the nails. This will keep it more secure across the target area.
Use Metal
If a tarp isn’t available, sheet metal could also work to place over any damaged areas.
Reapply Loose Shingles
If a chunk of the roofing shingles has ripped off, a temporary measure that you could take is to place them underneath the existing shingles near any bare patches and secure them using roofing cement and roofing nails. You could also secure them by starting at the bottom and going upward to place them, similar to applying a brick pattern.
If you’ve just experienced a roofing emergency, we know how stressful it can be. When you need licensed and reputable roofers who are experienced in dealing with these situations in Ottawa, contact us at Roofmaster. We will send someone out to inspect and determine the best course of action to get you and your family back home safe and sound.
