Emergency Roof Repair: What to Do Before the Pros Arrive

When the sky rumbles and water starts to drip, panic can set in fast. Roof trouble never picks a convenient moment—storms, freezing nights, even holiday weekends. You’re left staring up, wondering what to do next.

At STL Roofing, we know emergencies don’t wait. Our team handles roof repair near you—day or night—so you’re never alone when the rain pours or a branch comes crashing down. Here’s how you can act quickly and safely, before the pros arrive.

Assessing Damage Safely 🚨

First things first: safety is your umbrella.

• Never climb onto a wet or damaged roof. Slippery shingles can be as treacherous as black ice.
• Scan for downed power lines or visible structural damage from a distance. If you see sparks, wires, or sagging sections, stay clear and call the fire department.
• If water is leaking inside, avoid standing water near electrical outlets or cords.
• Use a flashlight to check your attic or top floor for leaks or daylight peeking through. No roof access needed—just peek up safely.

Remember: Your safety comes before your belongings. Always.

Quick Safety Checklist

Before you do anything else, run through this checklist:

• [ ] Stay off the roof.
• [ ] Watch for ceiling sagging or bulges.
• [ ] Unplug electronics near leaks.
• [ ] Move valuables and furniture out from under drips.
• [ ] Place buckets, pans, or towels to collect water.
• [ ] Use only sturdy ladders if absolutely necessary (for indoor attic checks).
• [ ] Keep kids and pets away from trouble spots.

Printable Tip: Tape this checklist inside a kitchen cabinet for storm season.

Temporary Leak Mitigation

You can’t fix a roof in a thunderstorm, but you can slow the damage.

• Place buckets or plastic bins under leaks to catch water. Check and empty them often.
• Lay old towels or blankets to absorb splashes.
• If possible, use heavy-duty plastic tarps to cover valuables—inside, not on the roof.
• For slow leaks, try pressing a small nail into the ceiling at the leak’s center. This gives water a path and may prevent ceiling collapse by directing the flow into a bucket below.

Seasonal tip: In winter, watch for ice dams. Never try to chip ice off your roof—this can cause more damage.

Protecting Interiors

Water spreads like spilled coffee—quickly and everywhere. Save what you can:

• Move rugs, books, electronics, and soft furniture away from leaks.
• Cover beds and sofas with plastic sheets or garbage bags.
• Open windows if weather allows, to help dry the air.
• For big leaks, shut off the main water line if you suspect a burst pipe (sometimes mistaken for roof leaks during freezing weather).

Insurance note: Take clear photos of all water damage, ceiling stains, and items moved. Save receipts for any supplies used; they may help with your claim.

What Not to Do

It’s tempting to play hero—but some actions can make things worse.

• Don’t try to patch outdoor roof damage during storms or at night.
• Don’t use power tools or extension cords on wet surfaces.
• Never climb onto a roof with visible damage or during high winds.
• Don’t ignore small leaks—those drops can turn into major repairs if left unchecked.
• Don’t remove debris like tree limbs yourself unless you’re certain it’s safe and stable.

When to Call a Pro

Some repairs can wait. Emergencies can’t.

Call for emergency roofing services if:

• Water is pouring through ceilings or walls.
• You see structural damage, like sagging rafters or fallen branches.
• There’s hail or storm damage after severe weather.
• You suspect mold, mildew, or electrical hazards.

STL Roofing operates 24/7, even on holidays and during winter storms. Our average emergency response time is under two hours for most neighborhoods. We’ll walk you through temporary measures over the phone while our crew is on the way.

Insurance tip: Our team documents all damage and repairs to help with your insurance claim. Be sure to keep your own notes and photos as backup.

Printable Emergency Roof Checklist

Keep this list handy:

• [ ] Confirm everyone is safe.
• [ ] Avoid the attic or roof if unsafe.
• [ ] Move valuables and unplug electronics.
• [ ] Collect leaking water in buckets.
• [ ] Snap photos of all visible damage.
• [ ] Call STL Roofing for emergency roofing help.
• [ ] Notify your insurance provider.

Addressing Seasonality

Storms

Thunderstorms and hail can turn a small roof issue into a waterfall. After any major storm, check for missing shingles, granules in your gutters, or dents in metal roofs.

Winter Freezes

Ice buildup on gutters and eaves can force water under shingles. Watch for icicles—these are often signs of ice dams above.

Holidays

Emergencies don’t take time off. If your roof fails during the holidays, don’t delay. Fast action now saves headaches later.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When STL Roofing arrives, here’s what to expect:

1. Safety First: We assess the situation from the ground and secure unsafe areas.
2. Temporary Fixes: Emergency tarps, sealants, and debris removal come first—to stop further water entry.
3. Photo Documentation: We document all damage for your records and insurance.
4. Thorough Inspection: Interior and exterior checks, even after dark, with proper lighting and safety gear.
5. Plan: We explain next steps, material needs, and timing.

We follow guidelines from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and OSHA for all emergency work.

Prevention & Maintenance

The best emergency is the one you never have. Here’s how to lower your odds:

• Schedule annual roof inspections—especially before storm or snow season.
• Clean gutters and downspouts every fall and spring.
• Trim overhanging tree branches.
• Look for loose shingles, flashing, or vent covers after high winds.
• Repair small leaks promptly—before they grow.

Costs & Time Factors

Emergency roof repair can feel unpredictable, but here’s what usually affects cost and timing:

• Severity: Small leaks cost less than major structural repairs.
• Material: Tile, metal, and specialty roofs may take longer to patch or replace.
• Access: Steep or high roofs require extra safety measures.
• Season: Winter and holidays can slow response times due to weather and traffic.

Most emergency services are assessed and stabilized within a few hours. Permanent repairs depend on materials, weather, and availability.

When It’s an Emergency

Not every drip is a disaster, but don’t wait if:

• Water is entering living spaces.
• Ceilings start to crack, bulge, or sag.
• You see debris, holes, or daylight where it shouldn’t be.
• You hear creaking or shifting noises overhead.

FAQ

Q: Should I try to tarp my own roof?
A: Only if it’s safe and dry. Most tarping should be left to professionals with safety equipment.

Q: Will insurance cover emergency repairs?
A: Most policies cover sudden damage (like storms or fallen trees). Check your policy and document everything.

Q: How soon can STL Roofing arrive?
A: We aim for under two hours for emergency calls in most areas, day or night.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent roof leaks?
A: Regular inspections and gutter cleaning are key. Spotting small problems early prevents emergencies later.

STL Roofing’s Emergency Protocols

At STL Roofing, urgency meets experience. Our crews are on call 24/7, year-round—including weekends and holidays. We prioritize safety, rapid assessment, and clear communication. From the moment you call, we guide you through immediate steps, send a qualified crew, and help with insurance documentation. Your peace of mind is always our goal.

Call STL Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  888-887-3097 .