A roofing emergency can happen anytime. Whether it’s a storm, a fire, a fallen tree, or a leak, a roofing emergency can significantly damage your home and put your safety at risk.
That’s why it’s essential to know how to handle a roofing emergency and what steps to take to minimize the impact and restore your roof as soon as possible.
First Steps When Experiencing A Roofing Emergency
The first thing you should do when you notice a roofing emergency is to call a professional roofing company that can respond quickly and provide emergency services.
Roofing companies like Flynn Roofing focus on the customer and have the expertise, equipment, and experience to assess the situation, secure the damaged area, and offer advice on the best course of action to repair, replace, or restore your roofing system.
While awaiting the arrival of a roofing contractor, you should take some precautions to protect yourself and your property from the roofing emergency. Here are some tips to follow:
- If a storm causes a roofing emergency, stay indoors and away from windows and doors. Please do not attempt to go outside or climb on the roof to inspect the damage, as it is dangerous and causes more harm to yourself and your roof.
- If ice dams are to blame, remember your safety comes first. Avoid trying to remove ice dams yourself. They can easily dislodge and cause injury. Resist the temptation to climb onto the icy roof to inspect the damage. Stay indoors, move belongings from the affected area to minimize water damage, and contact professionals for help.
- If a fire causes a roofing emergency, evacuate the premises immediately and call 911. Do not try to put out the fire yourself or salvage any belongings. Wait for emergency services to extinguish the fire safely.
- If a fallen tree or a large object causes roofing damage, avoid the area where it landed. Avoid touching or trying to move it. It could fall or shift position if unstable, putting you in danger. Please wait for the roofing contractor to assess the situation and determine a course of action.
Don’t Let Leaks Leave You Underwater
Remember, a leaky roof is more than just a nuisance; it can pose significant risks to your home and personal safety. Leaks might start small but can cause substantial damage over time if not addressed promptly.
Nobody should underestimate the consequences of a leaking roof, from water to structural damage, mold growth to fire hazards. So, what should you do when you discover that your roof is leaking and you’re waiting for a roofer to arrive? Here are some simple, friendly, helpful tips to help you stay safe and minimize damage.
Control the leak. If safe, use a bucket or other large container to catch the leaking water and dump it as needed to prevent water from penetrating the interior of your home. Doing so helps prevent water from spreading throughout your home and causing further damage.
If you notice water pooling in your ceiling, carefully puncture the pool’s center with something small like a screwdriver to drain the water. Remember, it’s easier to repair a small hole than replace a large section of the ceiling due to water damage.
Roofing Leaks Pose Multiple Problems
Electrical safety is of paramount importance in a situation like this. If there is a water leak near electrical outlets, lights, or appliances, immediately turn off the electricity at the circuit breaker.
Mixing water and electricity is dangerous! Do not touch any electrical appliances or switches with wet hands or standing in water. Consult a licensed electrician to handle the situation.
Next, try to identify the source of the leak. If it’s safe to access your attic, this can help spot the leak’s origin. Remember, water can travel before the drip becomes visible, so the leak isn’t necessarily where the water is pooling. Identifying the source can help the roofer address the issue more quickly when they arrive.
Protect Your Belongings
If a leak threatens your furniture or other belongings, try to move them out of the way if it’s safe. For unmovable items, consider using plastic sheets to cover and protect them as much as possible from water damage.
Protecting your belongings in the face of potential damage can minimize loss and inconvenience. You can prevent items from being ruined, save valuable and sentimental items, and reduce the incident’s overall impact on your daily life.
More importantly, it can speed up the recovery process by reducing the number of replacements or repairs needed, making restoring normalcy and comfort in your home easier. Ultimately, a few moments spent on preventative measures could save days or weeks of distress and disruption.
Document Everything For Your Insurance Company
Don’t forget to document damage for insurance purposes. Take photos and videos to note the extent of the damage. Most insurance policies cover damage caused by unforeseen leaks. However, claims often require photo or video evidence of damages.
Remember, every situation is unique, so use your best judgment when dealing with a leaky roof. If the problem seems too dangerous or overwhelming, evacuate your home and wait for professional help. Safety should always be your number one priority.
Call The Pros At Flynn Roofing
In Newton, Massachusetts, homeowners facing a roofing emergency can trust Flynn Roofing. With a longstanding reputation for excellence and a commitment to customer service, we offer prompt, professional, and reliable assistance in times of crisis.
Our emergency roofing services help protect your home and minimize damage. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, providing clear communication and efficient service every step of the way.
When a roofing emergency strikes, remember that Flynn Roofing is here to help, delivering reliable roofing services and peace of mind when needed. Contact us for roofing services in Newton, Wellesley, Dover, Hingham, Norwell, Needham, Cohasset, Scituate, and the surrounding communities.