How to Repair Leaks on the Roof of a House

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    Locate the Leak

    • 1). Wear flat-soled footwear to avoid damaging the roof as you walk on it.

    • 2). Climb up on to the roof and locate the leak. You can usually see a crack on a shingle or on the metal flashing where two roof planes meet.

    • 3). Go to the attic if you can't find the leak from above. Find puddles of water and mark the position of the leak source.

    Seal Hole or Crack in Shingle

    • 1). Remove any debris around the leaking shingle using a brush with metal bristles.

    • 2). Mix the roof cement according to the manufacturer's instructions.

    • 3). Apply the roof cement to the hole or crack in the shingle using a caulking gun.

    Replace Shingle

    • 1). Lift the shingles around the shingle that is damaged beyond repair and find any protruding nails.

    • 2). Remove the protruding nails using a pry bar.

    • 3). Remove the damaged shingle.

    • 4). Use a scraper to remove old roof cement.

    • 5). Slide the new shingle in place. Otherwise, you also can use two or three layers of roof patches instead.

    • 6). Hammer in four galvanized roof nails on the corners of the shingle or roof patches.

    • 7). Use a caulking gun to apply roof cement to the heads of the nails.

    Seal Metal Flashing

    • 1). Use a caulking gun to apply caulk over the hole in the metal flashing.

    • 2). Use a putty knife to apply roof cement on any areas where the roof cement cracks.

    • 3). Apply roof cement to any exposed nails to prevent corrosion.

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