How to Fix a Leaking Roof
Not only do leaking roofs cause damage to the interior of your home, but they could potentially lead to costly repairs in the thousands.
But as roofing experts, we know that first, it’s important to understand the cause of the leak and to take into consideration your current roofing material as a factor in not helping you in your fight to
As homeowners ourselves, we know how a leaking roof is a homeowner’s nightmare.
The Fastest Way to Stop a Leaking Roof
Tips from roofing experts
Roofing materials that are the best for preventing leaks
- EPDM has emerged as the perfect solution for roof repairs, particularly flat roofs.
- Its flexible and elastic nature allows it to expand and contract with changing weather conditions.
- Rubber roofing is also lightweight, making it applicable to most roof structures.
Rubber roofing materials like EPDM help homeowners address the issue of roof leaks and should be considered a leading option to prevent further leaks.
Rubber roofs are incredibly great at weatherproofing your roof and protecting your home against severe weather, which we see a lot here in the UK.
Not to mention that it’s one of the most cost-effective roofing materials. However, rubber roofing can only be applied to flat and low-sloped roofs, where shingled roofing is no longer the best option.
Best materials to prevent leaking on pitched roofs:
- Synthetic rubber materials
- Concrete or clay tiles
- Slate roofing
- Proper roof deck preparation and underlayment, and insulation
*Pro tip: be careful with materials like concrete or slate, which are heavier, meaning the root structure needs to be designed to support the weight of these heavier materials.
What professionals recommend:
Professionals tend to recommend materials that feature waterproof membranes, flashing systems and sealants to prevent leaks, providing an effective barrier from moisture intrusion and improving durability and resistance to bad weather conditions.
Roof repair costs
The cost to repair your roof can vary, depending on the cause of the leak, the severity and the action required to fix it. However, if you’re using a material that is not the best equipped to withstand the elements, it might be better to consider a replacement rather than a repair.
For example, rubber roofing membranes are particularly popular for preventing leaks and waterproofing your roof. Plus, if your roof ever needs a repair in the future, it’s cheaper and easier to repair with rubber. For example, minor damages, such as punctures or tears, can be easily patched with uncured flashing tape or a specially designed patch kit.
In particular wet areas, polyurethane, silicone or rubber sealants are even better to prevent water from penetrating the roof and causing internal damage. See Poylmer Sealant from £10.50 or Water-Based Deck Adhesive from £24.00.
Using rubber membranes for your repairs will save you time and reduce the overall maintenance costs associated with roof repairs, ensuring a secure and leak-free home for years to come.
Causes of leaks
- Damaged or missing shingles (shingles that have cracked, curled or broke)
- Exposure to harsh weather conditions (rain, snow, UV rays)
- Strong winds can lift or remove shingles leaving the underlying roof vulnerable to water infiltration.
- Inadequate flashing installed or damaged flashing around roof openings like chimneys, vents, and skylights.
- Improper sealing.
Roofing materials that are more prone to leaks
- Traditional asphalt shingles deteriorate over time, especially in regions with extreme weather conditions.
- Felt roofs are highly susceptible to damage and leaks, this is because felt is known to weaken in wet and windy weather.
- GRP or fibreglass roofs often leak due to poor installation, causing the roof to crack and allowing water to enter.
- Metal roofs, whilst durable, develop rust and corrosion more easily.
