Leaky roof can damage the house structure in many ways some of them are.
Roof leak plaster repair.
If you can repair the roof to stop the leak do so immediately if diy repairs are beyond your realm call a roof repair contractor.
Why you need to repair the roof.
The first step to making repairs is to remove all the damaged material.
A leaky roof first damages the ceiling.
Plaster expands and paint starts to peel off from the ceiling.
Use a putty knife to lift off flaking paint and bubbling plaster.
If a leak is difficult to find enlist a helper and go up on the roof with a garden hose.
Tools and supplies you will need drywall saw for removal of ceiling surface flashlight various wrenches channel locks pliers and adjustable wrenches are typical replacement pipes and fittings as required plumber s putty thread seal tape silicone caulk grout and grout sealer wax ring for toilet.
If you can t fix the roof at once tarp the roof to prevent more water from penetrating it and then deal with the problem when the weather clears.
Water makes its way from the roof to the ceiling and affects the ceiling plaster and paint.
Local repair companies can fix leaks faster because they are familiar with your area s climate and your roof style.
Start low soaking the area just above where the leak appears in the house.
Allow the damp spot in the ceiling to dry.
Wearing safety glasses take a lever type can opener and use the point to widen the crack to about 1 8 inch as shown at right.
In some cases a roof replacement might be necessary.
Isolate areas when you run the hose.
Roof repair companies know how to search for the underlying cause so the leak doesn t come back.
Or you can use a screwdriver or a utility knife.
A leak can cause more and.
For example soak the downhill side of a chimney first then each side then the top on both sides.
All the bubbling and peeling paint crumbling plaster coats and any degraded lath.
Meanwhile tarp the roof to prevent additional water damage.
If your home has sustained roof damage from a tree or other falling debris that has made a visible hole in the roof it s better to have a professional roofing contractor make the roof leak repair.
Widen a plaster crack with a can opener and then apply spackling compound to it.
Most roof damage is caused by regional weather like hail storms in the south or ice dams in the north.
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