Roof Leaking During a Storm? Do These 5 Things First

It is 2 a.m., a nor'easter is hammering Sayreville, and water is coming through the ceiling. Here is the order of operations that limits the damage until a roofer can safely get on your roof.

Contain the water. Move furniture and electronics out of the drip zone and put a bucket under the leak. If the ceiling paint is bulging, poke a small hole in the center of the bulge with a screwdriver — it releases the water in one controlled spot instead of letting it spread across the whole ceiling.

Protect the attic floor if you can do it safely. If your attic is accessible and the floor is dry enough to walk, a tarp or plastic sheeting under the leak keeps insulation from soaking through. Never climb into an attic during lightning.

Take photos and video. Document the leak, the stains and any damaged belongings while it is happening. This documentation is exactly what your insurance company will ask for later.

Stay off the roof. A wet roof in storm winds is genuinely dangerous, and walking on wet shingles can cause more damage. Emergency tarping is a job for a crew with the right equipment once conditions allow.

Call for emergency repair. Describe where the water is coming in and whether it is still active. An emergency roofer will secure the opening with tarping and temporary sealing first, then schedule the permanent repair when the weather clears.

If any of this sounds familiar, an inspection will tell you where you stand. Call (732) 555-0142 to schedule one anywhere in Sayreville.