Roofing Guide
What to Do When Your Roof Starts Leaking
A roof leak is stressful — but the first 30 minutes matter. Here’s how to limit the damage and get it fixed.
Step 1: Protect the inside first
Move furniture, electronics, and valuables out of the way. Put down a bucket or container and old towels to catch the water and protect your floors.
Step 2: Relieve a bulging ceiling (carefully)
If water is pooling behind a ceiling and creating a bulge, it can collapse. If you can do so safely, place a bucket underneath and pierce a small hole at the lowest point of the bulge with a screwdriver to let the water drain in a controlled way. If you’re unsure, wait for a professional.
Step 3: Document the damage
Take photos and video of the leak and any damage. If you end up filing an insurance claim, this record helps.
Step 4: Stay off the roof
A wet, damaged roof is genuinely dangerous. Resist the urge to climb up and investigate — let a roofer handle it safely.
Step 5: Call a roofer
The faster a leak is stopped, the less it costs you in interior damage. For active leaks, call (347) 400-9473 for emergency roof repair. We can tarp and seal to stop the water, then plan the permanent fix.
Why leaks spread
Water travels along the deck and framing before it shows up on your ceiling — so the stain is rarely directly under the actual hole. That’s why proper leak detection matters.
Related reading: Common causes of roof leaks · Repair or replacement?
Roof leaking right now?
Call Mariani Roofing now — we’ll move fast to protect your home.