Top 5 Roofing Emergencies: What to Do When Disaster Strikes

Roofs are an essential part of any home, keeping you and your loved ones safe from the elements. However, there are times when a catastrophe strikes and problems arise unexpectedly. When that happens, it's crucial to act quickly to minimise damage to your property. 

In this blog, we’ll discuss the top five roofing emergencies you may face and, more importantly, what to do when disaster strikes.

1. Leaking Roof

Finding a leak in your roof can be a nightmare, especially during heavy rainfall. If water is trickling into your home, it could cause extensive damage to walls, furniture, and valuables. Leaks often occur due to damaged or missing tiles, improper flashing, or worn-out sealants around vents and chimneys.

What To Do:

As a first step, place a bucket or container underneath the leak to collect water and reduce damage to your property. Then, call a professional roofer like Fixall Roofing to assess and repair the issue quickly. While waiting for help to arrive, if you feel safe doing so, try to find the cause of the leak by inspecting your attic or loft space for any holes or damp spots.

2. Storm Damage

The UK’s unpredictable weather, especially during those notorious storms, can wreak havoc on your roof. Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and even hail can damage roof tiles, flashing, or guttering, leading to considerable damage. Depending on the severity, your roof may even experience structural damage, causing sections to collapse.

What To Do:

After a storm has passed, safely inspect your roof from the ground for any missing or visibly damaged tiles or other structural damage. Avoid going onto the roof yourself, as it may have become unstable. Call a professional roofing service immediately for a full inspection and emergency repairs.

3. Blocked or Damaged Gutters

Over time, leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate in your gutters, preventing water from properly draining off your roof. This can lead to a host of issues, including overflowing water, leaks, or even damage to the roof’s structure.

What To Do:

If you notice your gutters overflowing, grab a ladder (if safe to do so) and carefully remove any debris that may be causing the blockage. If water has already caused significant damage, reach out to a roofing professional right away to inspect for potential roof damage and clear out your guttering system thoroughly.

4. Fallen Tree or Branch Damage

Though less common, fallen trees or branches can cause severe damage to your roof, especially during high winds or storms. This type of emergency can leave gaping holes, compromised structural integrity, and a significant safety concern for inhabitants.

What To Do:

Immediately vacate the area underneath the damaged roof and avoid using rooms directly under the impacted part of your home. If needed, contact emergency services and arrange for a roofing specialist to inspect the damage and make the necessary repairs. Fixall Roofing specialises in offering emergency services for such incidents.

5. Roof Fire

While rare, roof fires can occur due to faulty wiring, chimney fires, or even nearby wildfires. A roof fire not only jeopardises the structural integrity of your roof but can also endanger your entire home.

What To Do:

Safety is paramount in the case of a fire— evacuate the property immediately and contact the emergency services. Only once the fire has been completely put out should you call a qualified roofer to assess the full extent of the damages and start the restoration process.

Final Thoughts

Roofing emergencies can be stressful and chaotic, but knowing the correct actions to take can save you both time and costly repairs. Fixall Roofing is here to help you with all your roofing needs, whether it’s an emergency callout or a routine inspection. Remember: acting fast can often prevent a catastrophe from worsening.

Need emergency roof repair? Contact Fixall Roofing today for professional and dependable assistance.