The short answer
Slips and Falls Are a Real Risk
Even on a dry, intact roof, walking on a slope is risky. Add missing shingles, loose granules, and wet surfaces, and the footing becomes treacherous. A fall from a roof can cause serious injuries, broken bones, or worse.
You may be tempted to lean over to inspect a damaged area or to try to place a tarp. That movement shifts your weight and can throw you off balance. The pros have the right equipment, such as ladders with stabilizers and safety harnesses, to work at height safely.
What the Pros Typically Do
Local water damage pros assess the roof from the ground first, using binoculars or a drone if needed. They look for signs of sagging, missing shingles, and visible holes. If they need a closer look, they use proper safety gear and follow safe practices for accessing the roof.
Their work usually involves tarping the damaged area to keep water out, then addressing the interior water damage. They can also help you document the damage for your insurance claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Signs You Should Stay off the Roof
Certain signs tell you the roof is too unsafe to walk on. Sagging areas, soft spots you can feel from the ground, or visible daylight through the roof deck all indicate serious structural issues. Water stains on ceilings or walls inside your home also suggest the roof has been leaking for a while.
If you notice any of these, do not climb up. Instead, keep everyone away from the area and contact a professional who can evaluate the situation safely. Your safety is more important than a quick look at the damage.
What to Do While Waiting for Help
While you wait for the pros, you can take a few simple steps to limit further damage. Place buckets or containers under active leaks to catch water. Move furniture and valuables away from the affected areas. If you have a tarp and can reach the roof safely from a ladder, you might consider covering the hole, but only if you are sure the roof can support you.
Never risk your life to save a few items. The pros can handle the tarping and the cleanup. If you live in Mesa, keep a list of emergency contacts handy so you can act quickly when a storm damages your roof.
While you wait for help, you can take a few simple steps to limit further damage. Place buckets or containers under active leaks to catch water. Move furniture and valuables away from the affected areas. If water is near outlets or appliances, turn off the electricity at the breaker if it is safe to do so.
Do not climb onto the roof for any reason. The pros will handle the inspection and any temporary covering. Keep yourself and your family safe while you wait for help.
Water damage does not wait
Call (480) 898-4279 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Can I tarp my own roof after a storm?
It depends on the extent of the damage. If the roof is only missing a few shingles and you have a safe way to reach it, you might be able to cover it temporarily. But if there is sagging or visible holes, stay off and let the pros handle it.
How do I know if my roof is safe to walk on?
You cannot always tell from the ground. Look for sagging areas, soft spots, or visible holes. If you see any of these, assume it is unsafe. Also, if the roof is wet or steep, do not risk it. When in doubt, call a professional.
What should I do if I fall through the roof?
If you fall through, try to stay calm and avoid moving too much, as you may be injured. Call for help immediately. If you can, get to a safe location and wait for emergency services. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine, as injuries may not be obvious.