3 Tips to Stop a Leaky Roof During a Storm in Northeast Ohio

A roof leak during a storm is a homeowner’s nightmare—especially in Northeast Ohio, where lake-effect rain, strong winds, and sudden downpours can cause major damage in minutes. With wind gusts reaching 40–50 mph, even a small crack in your roof can let water seep into your attic, ceilings, and walls.

Unfortunately, once the storm starts, there’s no quick fix.

You have to minimize the damage until a professional can inspect and repair your roof. The good news? There are a few temporary solutions that can help protect your home while you wait.

Here are three practical steps to slow roof leaks during a storm.

Key Takeaways

• Storms in Northeast Ohio can damage roofs, letting water in and causing leaks that need immediate attention.
• A tarp can help stop water from pouring in, but professionals should handle the actual roof repairs.
• Clogged gutters often cause leaks, and clearing them after storms can prevent long-term roof damage.
• Small leaks can be patched with tape or caulking, but full repairs require a professional inspection.

1. Use a Tarp or Waterproof Cover to Seal Larger Leaks

Storms in Northeast Ohio can loosen shingles, damage flashing, and create gaps in the underlayment, all of which let water in.

If water is dripping from your ceiling, the first thing you should do is contain the leak by placing buckets, basins, or towels underneath the drip. This helps prevent further damage to your floors and furniture.

If the leak is severe and water is pouring in, you may need to temporarily cover the damaged area until roofers can inspect and repair it.

How to Safely Cover a Roof Leak

• Do not attempt to get on the roof during the storm. Strong winds and wet surfaces make climbing dangerous.
• If you have an attic window, skylight, or balcony, use a long-handled tool to push a tarp over the leaking area from inside.
• Secure the tarp in place with weighted objects (like bricks or sandbags) rather than nails, which can create more damage.

Why You Should Avoid DIY Fixes

While it’s tempting to try sealing the leak with roofing cement, too many DIY repairs can invalidate your homeowners’ insurance claim or make professional repairs more difficult. It’s always best to do the bare minimum to contain the leak and let professionals handle the real repairs.

Once the storm passes, call a roofing expert immediately for a detailed inspection—especially if your home has older roofing materials that might not withstand another storm.

2. Check and Clear Your Gutters

Many homeowners don’t realize that clogged gutters are a leading cause of roof leaks. If water can’t drain properly, it backs up under the roofline, leading to leaks that seep into walls and ceilings.

In Northeast Ohio, strong winds can send leaves, pine needles, and shingle granules into your gutters, creating blockages. If your home is surrounded by mature trees—common in areas like Shaker Heights, Hudson, and Rocky River—your gutters may fill up quickly during a storm.

What You Can Do Mid-Storm

• Stay off ladders and the roof—it’s too risky in high winds and rain.
• If you can see a visible clog near a downspout, use a long tool to clear it from the ground.
• Inside your home, use towels or a dehumidifier to absorb excess moisture if water is seeping through the ceiling.

Preventative Step for the Future

After the storm, schedule a professional gutter cleaning and consider installing gutter guards to keep debris out. A well-maintained gutter system can prevent leaks and protect your roof from long-term damage.

3. Use Roof Tape or Caulking for Small Leaks

If you can locate a small leak inside your attic, you may be able to temporarily seal it to prevent more water from coming in.

How to Apply a Temporary Fix

• Identify the leak—look for water stains, drips, or damp insulation.
• Clean the area and dry it as much as possible.
• Apply roofing tape, caulking, or putty to seal the leak temporarily.
• Avoid using excessive amounts—roofers will need to remove the affected area for proper repairs.

Don’t Rely on Temporary Fixes

While these solutions might slow the leak, they won’t stop long-term damage. Water that seeps into your attic can cause mold growth, wood rot, and insulation damage.

A professional roofing inspection is necessary to identify hidden leaks and weaknesses before the next storm hits.

Get Reliable Roofing Repairs in Northeast Ohio

At Royalty Roofing, we specialize in storm damage repairs and detailed roof inspections that catch leaks before they turn into major problems. Our team serves homeowners across Cleveland, Akron, Canton, and surrounding areas, ensuring their roofs are strong enough to withstand Ohio’s unpredictable weather. Call us today at 330-362-4700 (Akron/Canton) or 440-732-4477 (Cleveland) to schedule an inspection and protect your home before the next storm hits.