If you’re facing a roof emergency in Asheville, learn the essential steps to take before professional help arrives. Protect your home from further damage with these temporary solutions from Lane Roofing.
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What to Do While Waiting for Emergency Roof Repair in Asheville

When your roof starts leaking during a heavy mountain downpour or after a fierce wind storm has torn off shingles, every minute counts. As your local Asheville roofing experts, we understand the panic that comes with unexpected roof damage. While Lane Roofing aims to respond to emergency calls within 24-48 hours, there are critical steps you can take to protect your home before we arrive. Here’s your action plan for those crucial waiting hours.

Safety First: Assess the Situation Carefully

Before attempting any temporary fixes, make sure it’s safe to do so. After severe weather, your roof structure might be compromised in ways that aren’t immediately visible.

If you notice sagging areas, hear creaking sounds, or see extensive damage, stay out of the attic and off the roof. In these cases, focus only on interior water containment and call us immediately. Remember, no home repair is worth risking personal safety.

Contain Water Damage Inside Your Home

If you’re experiencing active leaks, your first priority is preventing water from damaging your home’s interior:

Use buckets, trash cans, or plastic containers to catch dripping water. Empty them regularly to prevent overflow.

Move valuable items, furniture, and electronics away from the leak area. Cover larger items with plastic sheets or tarps if they can’t be moved.

If water is pooling on ceilings, carefully make a small hole at the lowest point using a screwdriver to release the water in a controlled manner. This prevents ceiling collapse and wider water spread.

Document Everything for Insurance

Before making temporary repairs, document the damage thoroughly:

Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas, both interior and exterior if it’s safe to do so. Capture close-ups of damaged shingles, flashing, or structural elements.

Keep receipts for any emergency supplies you purchase. Note the date and time when you discovered the damage and what weather conditions preceded it.

Temporary DIY Roof Repairs

If conditions are safe and the damage is minor, consider these temporary solutions:

For small leaks, apply roofing cement or silicone caulk to the underside of the roof deck in your attic where water is entering. This isn’t a permanent fix but can reduce water entry until professionals arrive.

If you can safely access the roof and identify missing shingles, cover the area with a tarp. Secure it with boards rather than nailing directly into the roof, which can cause additional damage.

For minor flashing issues around chimneys or vents, use roofing tape as a temporary seal until professional repair.

When to Avoid DIY Solutions

While we appreciate proactive homeowners, some situations demand professional-only intervention:

Never attempt repairs during active storms or high winds. Asheville’s mountain weather can change rapidly, making roof access dangerous.

If your roof has structural damage or is significantly compromised, focus only on interior water containment. Walking on a weakened roof can lead to collapse.

Leave electrical issues caused by water to licensed professionals. If water is near electrical systems, turn off power to that area from your breaker box if it’s safe to do so.

Connect with Emergency Services

After containing immediate damage, reach out to key professionals:

Call Lane Roofing’s emergency line at 828-490-1830. We prioritize emergency roof repair in Asheville and respond within 24-48 hours in most cases.

Contact your insurance provider to report the damage and start the claims process. Ask what documentation they need and what emergency measures are covered.

Ready to Help When You Need Us Most

As your neighbors in Western North Carolina, we understand how stressful roof emergencies can be, especially with Asheville’s unpredictable mountain weather. Our team is ready to provide professional emergency repairs with the care and quality you deserve.

Don’t wait until minor damage becomes a major problem. For fast, reliable emergency roof repair in Asheville and throughout Western North Carolina, contact Lane Roofing today.