How to Fix a Roof Leak | Belfast DIY Guide & Pro Tips
Drip, Drip… Got a Roof Leak?
Water spots on your ceiling mean trouble. A roof leak quickly turns from annoying to disastrous. Here's what to do when your roof leaks and how to fix it safely.
Step 1: Stay Safe
Safety comes first:
Never climb on wet roofs
Avoid going up during bad weather
Use a safety harness on the roof
Turn off power if water is near electrics
Pro Tip: When unsure—call a local roofer. DIY repairs often cost more than professional fixes.
Step 2: Find the Source of the Leak
Leaks often appear away from the actual hole. Water travels along rafters before showing inside.
Look for:
Missing or cracked tiles/slates
Loose flashing around chimneys
Clogged or sagging gutters
Damp spots in the attic
Water pooling behind fascia boards
Step 3: Temporary Fixes You Can Try
If safe to do so, try these DIY steps:
Inside the Home:
Place buckets under the leak
Poke small holes in bulging ceiling spots to drain water
Use towels or fans to reduce water spread
On the Roof:
Replace 1-2 dislodged tiles if accessible
Apply roof patch tape over small cracks
Cover larger areas with waterproof tarp and bricks
When to Call a Belfast Roofer
Call professionals when:
🔄 The leak returns
🔍 Damage is in hard-to-reach places
⚡ Water enters attic or electrics
🪵 You see rotting timber, sagging rafters, or mold
⏱️ The leak worsens after 24-48 hours
Did You Know? Ignoring a roof leak can void some insurance policies as "gradual damage."
What Happens During a Professional Roof Repair?
When you hire Belfast Roofing Experts, we:
Inspect the full leak
Take photos for insurance
Recommend repair options
Seal, patch, or replace damaged areas
Check surrounding structures to prevent future leaks
Most minor roof leaks take only a few hours to fix.
FAQs
Q: Can I fix a roof leak from inside my attic?
A: You can temporarily collect water or patch under rafters, but the source needs fixing from above.
Q: Will a roofer come out for a small leak?
A: Yes. Better to fix it early than wait for serious damage.
Need emergency roof leak repair in Belfast? Contact our team today for fast, professional service.
