The good news is that an asphalt tile roof is probably the easiest type to repair, since curly shingles can be flattened and re-secured, and old shingles can simply be replaced. The lower section of the vent flashing should go over the shingles to prevent leakage. Nail the air vent in all corners and every 4 inches. Cover nails with cement or sealant.
Working from the bottom up, nail the roofing paper or subfloor with roofing nails. Overlap each row at least 4 inches. Patch the holes for nails or screws by sliding a piece of roof flashing under the tile. Add a bead of roofing putty or cement to the top and bottom edges of the flashing to hold it in place.
Using a tarpaulin is a quick and easy temporary solution for an emergency roof leak repair. Once you have located the area of the roof where water enters, you can now go to the roof and cover the area with a tarp. Once you have the sheet metal tile in place, you can nail it in, making sure to cover the nails with roofing cement so that the holes don't start to leak. If the leak comes from damage to the roof deck, you will need to remove the shingles to access the damaged section.
Roof leaks are no joke; not only can they be annoying and frustrating, but they can also be detrimental to the structure of your home. See OSHA's comprehensive publication “Protecting Roofing Workers” for the full range of safety recommendations to keep you safe while sealing your leaking roof. If the ceiling leak causes the ceiling drywall to sag, the best thing to do is to take a pencil and make a hole in the center of the affected area. If your roof is only a few years old and has started to leak, it most likely means that the roof wasn't installed properly to begin with.
Certain types of roofs, such as slate, tile, and galvalume (metal), should be repaired by a roofing contractor who has experience with that particular material. This can be purchased and replaced at minimal cost and could be just what you need to stop the roof leak. The flashing can be very effective in stopping leaks around the base of the chimney or in parts of the roof where most of the water will drain. If you have questions about your ability to repair a leaking roof in a timely manner, call a roofing company or general contractor.
Since it comes in a 32-ounce or 0.25 gallon bucket, it's a good choice for small roofs or minor repairs. Small nail holes left by old vents, satellite dish mounts, or anything previously attached to the roof can allow water to enter and cause damage for years before a leak is noticed. Before you begin, it's important to recognize the signs of a roof leak, take steps to reduce the damage, and also find the leak itself. Roof sealants not only cover roof leaks, but also provide a protective layer to prevent water and sunlight from penetrating.
Like sealant tape products, it is best for minor roof repairs, such as leaks and vulnerable edges, due to its small size.
