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How to Fix a Leaky Roof
Here are three ways to identify and repair roof leaks quickly to prevent further damage.
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How to Fix a Leaking Roof Step-by-Step
How to Fix a Leaking Roof Step-by-Step
Tools
- Caulk gun
- Eye goggles
- Gloves
- Hammer
- Pry bar
Materials
- DAP® Ultra Clear™ Flexible All Purpose Waterproof Sealant
- Plumbing vent rain collar
- Roof vent
- Roofing nails
Water stains on a ceiling can be caused by a leaking roof. But where exactly is it leaking? You’ll have to climb up there to find out. Common culprits are your roof vents, and plumbing vents. Luckily, they’re easy to inspect and repair. Just remember to be safe as you work on your roof and limit how much you walk on the shingles, so they don’t get damaged.
Repair Plumbing Vent Leaks
Step 1: Fix Worn Rain Collar
If a plumbing vent’s rain collar (the rubber flange around the base of the vent pipe) is worn and cracked, it can let water into your house around the vent. To fix it, remove any caulk at the top of the existing flange and slip a new rain collar onto the pipe, pulling it down to rest snugly over the existing one. Then apply DAP Ultra Clear Flexible All Purpose Waterproof Sealant to the top of the new flange. Ultra Clear adheres to wet or damp surfaces and is water/rain ready immediately.
Step 2: Seal Around Base Plate
Water can leak in around plumbing vent base plates (the metal flashing at the base of the vent that’s tucked under the shingles) if they’re not sealed properly. To seal them, carefully pull back the roof shingles to expose the edges of the metal base. Seal around the edges with DAP Ultra Clear Flexible All Purpose Waterproof Sealant and reposition the shingles.
Replace Damaged Roof Vents
Step 1: Remove Old Vent
Roof vents with cracks or broken seams can be entry points for water to leak into your home and should be replaced. Pull back any shingles covering the edges of the vent and pry out the nails securing the vent. Seal the nail holes with DAP Ultra Clear Flexible All Purpose Waterproof Sealant.
Step 2: Attach New Vent
Nail the new vent in place with roofing nails.
Step 3: Seal New Vent
Apply DAP Ultra Clear Flexible All Purpose Waterproof Sealant around the edges of the vent and dab it on any exposed roofing nails. It provides a 100% waterproof and weatherproof seal, and helps hold the shingles down where they meet the vent.
Fix Roof Leaks Around Chimneys
Step 1: Look for Cracks and Gaps
Any cracks on the chimney crown (the top of the chimney) or gaps, such as between the crown and the flue, need to be sealed. If there’s existing sealant but it’s cracked or deteriorated, remove it.
Step 2: Seal Gaps and Cracks
Seal gaps and cracks with DAP Ultra Clear Flexible All Purpose Waterproof Sealant. It stays flexible and crackproof under harsh conditions, providing a long-lasting, durable seal. If the joint size is greater than a ½ inch deep, insert foam backer rod material before applying the sealant.
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Recommended Products
Product Recommendations
ULTRA CLEAR ALL PURPOSE
Premium rubberized ultra flexible, ultra clear sealant for sealing and patching a wide variety of surfaces for durable 100% waterproof seal.
View Product
ULTRA CLEAR ROOF Waterproof Rubberized Sealant
Ultra Clear Roof Waterproof Rubber Sealant is a single component, synthetic rubber sealant that provides an ultra clear, ultra flexible and ultra waterproof seal around roof fixtures and penetrations to keep out water, air and moisture. Unlike comparable silicone-based sealants, it has true crystal clear clarity and is paintable.
View Product
DAP Roof Filler Asphalt Sealant
High-performance asphalt compound that fills and seals cracks for durable, watertight protection against UV and weathering.
View Product
DAP® DYNAFLEX® Gutter & Narrow Seam Advanced Elastomeric Waterproof Sealant
DAP® DYNAFLEX® GUTTER & NARROW SEAM SEALANT forms durable, watertight seals in small joints & seams. Works in any weather & stays flexible without cracking.
View Product -
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