How To Stop Roof Leaking In Heavy Rain

Heavy rain can turn a small roof issue into a big problem fast. Water seeping through your roof can damage ceilings, walls, insulation, and timber, and the damage worsens the longer you leave it. Knowing how to stop roof leaks during a storm helps you protect your home before serious damage sets in.

What Causes Roof Leaks in Heavy Rain?

Understanding what causes leaks helps you spot vulnerable areas early. When you know these problem areas, you can act faster the moment a leak starts.

Here are some common causes for roof leaks:

• Clogged gutters or downpipes force rainwater to overflow and push up under the roof edges.
• Loose, cracked, or missing tiles let water slip through the surface, especially during high winds.
• Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights can let water in.*
• Pooling water on flat roofs builds pressure on weak spots and forces its way through.
• Storm debris, like branches and leaves block drainage and push water into unwanted areas.
• Old or brittle roofing cement or sealants can fail to keep water out.
• Lifted shingles or broken tiles caused by wind can leave direct paths for leaks.
• Loose lead flashing can shift over time and allow water to run behind it.*
• Poor installation or degraded materials let water seep in wherever the roof isn’t sealed tightly.
• Damaged roof membranes can allow water to seep into your roof, especially during heavy rain.  

*Gorilla Patch & Seal Tape cannot be used as a flashing application

Quick Emergency Fixes You Can Do Right Away

If water starts leaking during a storm, act quickly to reduce damage. These temporary fixes won’t replace professional repairs, but they’ll help you control the situation until you can book a roofer.

1. Sealing a Crack or Pinhole Leak

Use Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape. This tape sticks even to wet surfaces in an emergency, but you’ll get the best results if the area is dry.

What to do:

1. Prepare: Wipe around the leak using a dry cloth if you can access it safely.
2. Cut: Keep the liner on the tape and cut the tape to the desired size.
3. Position: Remove the release liner and place tape over the repair area. Tape cannot be repositioned once applied.
4. Press: Rub firmly across the entire surface of the tape to secure it to the repair area.

*Disclaimer: Tape size should be larger than the repair area.

2. Patching a Gutter or Downpipe

For urgent fixes while it’s raining, use Gorilla’s Waterproof Patch and Seal Tape. It can be applied in wet conditions and will form an instant, permanent, waterproof barrier (even underwater).

You can find specific instructions here.

*Disclaimer: Tape size should be larger than the repair area.

For small gaps, cracks, and leaks in sunnier conditions, Gorilla Waterproof Coat & Seal Spray is an easy-to-use option for reaching tricky corners and works well on curved or uneven surfaces like metal, rubber*, pipe joints, or PVC.

*Disclaimer: May not work for all types of rubber.

3. Covering a Leaking Area with a Tarp

Use Gorilla Tape All-Weather Extreme to help secure your tarp and keep water out while the storm passes.

What To Do After the Rain Stops

Step 1: Consider if you need professional help

Sometimes DIY patches won’t hold, especially if:

• Multiple tiles or shingles show cracks or damage
• Water keeps pooling on your flat roof
• You notice sagging beams or rotting wood inside
• You can’t pinpoint where the water is entering

A roofer can assess the structure, replace damaged materials, reseal problem areas, and give you peace of mind before the next storm hits.

Step 2: Steps You Can Take To Prevent Roof Leaks During Storms

Stay ahead of the next downpour with these practical prevention tips:

Immediate Fixes

• Keep emergency supplies, such as a roll of Gorilla Patch & Seal Tape or a tarp, in your shed or garage.

Ongoing Maintenance

• Clean your gutters regularly to keep rainwater flowing where it’s meant to
• Trim tree branches that hang over your roof to prevent debris buildup
• Inspect your roof annually and replace cracked tiles.

Remember, fixing small issues during dry weather is much easier than scrambling to find a solution during a storm.

Step 3: Use the Right Products to Tackle Roof Leaks

For small cracks and minor leaks, Gorilla Glue’s waterproofing products provide a quick and effective solution to address water intrusion, helping to protect your home in the long run.

Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape

• Sticks to wood, metal, rubber, and plastic*.
• Covers small holes and cracks with a watertight seal
• Resists UV rays and temperature changes
• It’s ideal for gaps, cracks, and tears up to 80mm

*Disclaimer: May not work for all types of plastic.

Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Spray

• Coats uneven surfaces.
• Works on flat roofs, gutters, skylights, and flashing
• Dries fast and holds up under tough conditions

Stay Ready for the Next Big Storm

Leaks move fast, but you can move faster. Keep your roof in good shape, fix small issues right away, and stock up on the right tools so you’re ready before the rain starts.

With Gorilla Glue’s range of waterproofing products, you don’t have to wait for help. Take control, protect your home, and keep the rain outside, where it belongs.

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