One part of your house that needs high maintenance level is the roof. In case you realize your roof is leaking, you can fix it either from the outside or inside. So instead of incurring high costs of complete roof replacement, you can repair it. The tools you will require are a leaking patch, scraper, bucket, roofing tar, and caulking. Here is how to patch your leaky roof successfully.

Look for the Leak

First, locate the leak before you attempt to fix it. To begin with, get in the ceiling and trace the dropping water path as it enters the ceiling via your roof. In case the interior of your ceiling is dark, carry a flashlight. It is much easier to identify a leak when it’s dropping light rains than when it’s raining heavily. Once you locate the leaking point during wet conditions, you will need to divert the water by quickly inserting a nail into the leaking hole. Depending on the levels of water dropping, you can catch it all in a big bucket. Take your time when doing this task, because you do not want any leftover areas that are leaking to go unattended.

Use Tar to Seal the Leaking Area

It would be best if you waited for the leaking area to dry before sealing it. This helps in getting the correct leaking point and ensuring the tar sticks on the hole completely. Since you already know where the leaking area is, make a temporary patch. Press the roofing tar on plywood or a piece of shingle. For maximum results, cover the whole leaking point using a scraper and surround it using caulk and make sure it spreads evenly. This will make it easy to identify when a roofing contractor arrives. Once there, they will be able to help you with other questions or concerns you might have about the leak.

Inspect Your Roof From the Outside

Since the leak is now covered and patched using caulking, it should continue protecting your family from rain, snow, and wind. Before getting down from the roof, take a minute to examine your hard work. Check whether there is any affected or damaged shingle, flashings, or underlayment. Also, ensure you remove any foreign objects that might be on your roof. Be sure to wear a safety harness when examining your roof. There is no coming back from a fall, so be sure that you are taking all safety precautions seriously.

Finally, patching your leaky roof from outside or inside will offer you temporary relief. You will be able to buy enough time, and you won’t require a complete roof replacement. Before you hire a professional roofer, apply the above technique to fix the damaged roof. Fixing the roof prevents unnecessary costs and further damage. It also minimizes future spending in case your roof has not stayed for long. A leaky roof gives you discomfort since you don’t get maximum protection from bad weather, so it’s good to patch it up.