A roof leak rarely happens at a convenient time — usually it is during the worst of an Alberta storm. The good news: a few quick steps can keep a small leak from becoming a big restoration bill.
Here is what to do, in order.
1. Protect what is below
Move furniture and valuables out of the way and put down a bucket or bin to catch the water. If water is pooling in the ceiling (a sagging bulge), put a bucket under it and carefully poke a small hole at the lowest point with a screwdriver to drain it — a controlled drip beats a collapsed ceiling.
2. Contain the water
Towels, a tarp, or a plastic bin will limit damage to floors and drywall. The goal is simply to stop the spread until the source is fixed.
3. Take photos
Document the damage — the ceiling, walls, and anything affected. If this turns into an insurance claim, those photos help.
4. Call a roofer — do not climb up there
A wet roof is dangerous, and the leak inside is rarely directly below the hole outside. Call for emergency roof repair — we can often respond the same day, stop the active leak, and plan the permanent fix.
Why fast action pays off
Water spreads into insulation, drywall, and framing fast. A leak caught and stopped early is usually a small repair; a leak left for days can mean mould, ruined ceilings, and a much bigger bill.