
Emergency Steps to Take When Your Roof Starts Leaking
When heavy rain hits Denver, even the most well-maintained roof can become vulnerable to leaks. Whether it’s caused by damaged flashing, missing asphalt shingles, or extreme weather conditions, a leaky roof isn’t just an inconvenience-it’s a serious issue that can lead to mold, water damage, and costly home repairs if not handled swiftly.
Here’s what you should do the moment you spot a leak-and how Blue Frog Roofing can help protect your home from further damage.
Step 1: Contain the Water and Protect Your Belongings
The first step is to stop water from spreading and causing further interior damage.
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Move electronics, furniture, and valuables away from the leak.
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Place buckets or waterproof containers under dripping spots to catch the water.
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Use towels or a wet/dry vacuum to clean up pooled water and reduce moisture that could lead to mold growth or ceiling stains.
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If necessary, cover larger exposed areas with a tarp or roofing membrane from inside the attic as a temporary fix-especially if you have a flat roof or lower roof pitch that collects water.
Step 2: Locate the Leak (If Safe)
While you should never climb on your roof during a storm, use a flashlight to inspect your attic or top floor:
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Look for wet insulation, moisture around rafters, or dripping near roof valleys.
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Check the ceiling, drywall, and walls for water stains or bubbling paint.
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Visible signs like damaged roof shingles, clogged gutters, or debris near skylights and vents can indicate the point of intrusion.
If daylight is visible from the attic, you may have a more serious issue like structural compromise or damaged flashing around vents or chimneys.
Step 3: Document the Damage for Insurance
Taking clear photos and notes now will help if you need to file a home insurance claim:
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Photograph the interior damage, the source of the leak, and any external roof damage (from the ground).
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If the leak has damaged plumbing, electrical wiring, or siding, document that too.
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Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claims process.
Step 4: Call a Roofing Professional
Even if the leak seems minor, it’s important to have your roof professionally inspected. Delaying repairs could lead to more severe issues like:
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Wood rot
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Ice dams during freezing temperatures
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Mold and mildew in insulation and drywall
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Compromised structural integrity
At Blue Frog Roofing, our certified experts specialize in identifying the root cause of roof leaks and delivering durable, code-compliant repairs. From emergency tarp service to full roof replacements, we offer peace of mind and reliable service you can trust.
Step 5: Understand the Roof Repair Process
Your roofing contractor should walk you through:
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The extent of the damage
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Recommended materials like metal roofing, asphalt shingles, or slate
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Any issues with roof pitch, roof valleys, or flashing
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Estimated roof replacement cost (if applicable) and timeline
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Warranty coverage for materials and labor
Always ask for a detailed estimate and verify licensing, insurance, and references-especially after severe weather, when less reputable companies often appear.
Don’t let a leaky roof turn into a full-blown emergency.
Contact Blue Frog Roofing for a free inspection and expert roof repair services in the Denver area. Our licensed team is ready to provide emergency response, long-term solutions, and transparent communication every step of the way.
Call now or request a quote online – we’re here to keep your home safe, dry, and protected.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my roof leak is serious?
If you see ceiling stains, pooling water, or mold, the leak may be affecting your insulation or structural supports. Always have a roofer inspect for hidden damage.
2. Will insurance cover my leaking roof?
Most homeowners insurance covers leaks caused by sudden events like storms or falling branches-but not general wear and tear. Check your policy and document everything.
3. What causes roof leaks during heavy rain?
Common causes include damaged shingles, clogged gutters, improper flashing, or aging roof valleys that can’t drain water efficiently.
4. Can I fix a leaky roof myself?
Temporary fixes like tarps or roof sealant may help, but a licensed roofing contractor should always handle repairs to ensure safety and long-term durability.
5. How soon should I address a leaking roof?
Immediately. Even a small leak can result in mold, electrical hazards, and expensive repairs if not addressed quickly.