When dealing with a roof leak, many homeowners are tempted to turn to quick, easy solutions like Flex Seal, a popular liquid rubber sealant known for its waterproofing abilities. Its marketing suggests it can fix almost any leak, even on wet surfaces, making it ideal for emergency roof repairs during rainy conditions.
However, while Flex Seal can temporarily fix small leaks, it is essential to understand its limitations and potential drawbacks before relying on it as a permanent solution. In this guide, we will explore whether you can use Flex Seal on a wet roof, provide a step-by-step guide for application, and discuss the risks and limitations associated with its use.
This article will help you decide whether Flex Seal is the right choice for your roof, whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a more long-term solution.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Flex Seal can be used on wet roofs for temporary fixes, but it’s not a permanent solution for leaks. While it can quickly stop water infiltration, it has significant limitations, such as voiding roof warranties, causing cosmetic issues, and being incompatible with asphalt shingles.
Additionally, Flex Seal is prone to cracking and peeling under UV exposure and may make future professional repairs more difficult. Though it may seem like a cost-effective DIY fix, professional repair is ultimately necessary for long-term results and to address the root cause of leaks.
Applying Flex Seal To A Wet Roof: Is It Possible?
Yes, but with Limitations
Flex Seal can be used on wet and dry surfaces, making it ideal for emergency roof repairs, even in rainy conditions.
Its liquid rubber nature enables it to bond to surfaces quickly, even if water is present. However, there are significant limitations and considerations before using it on your roof.
Flex Seal Roof Repair: A Step-By-Step Guide
Flex Seal is a popular sealant that can be used for temporary roof repairs. While it’s not a permanent solution, it can provide a quick fix to stop leaks and buy you some time until you can get a professional repair. Here’s how to use Flex Seal properly for roof repairs:
Step 1: Identify The Source Of The Leak
Before applying Flex Seal, it’s essential to locate the leak’s source accurately. Water testing—pouring a small amount of water over suspect areas and having someone monitor the inside of the house—can help identify the problem area.
Often, the leak might not be directly above the water stain but somewhere else on the roof. Water testing can help pinpoint the exact location of the leak, even if it’s not directly visible.
Step 2: Clean The Surface
Once you’ve identified the leaking area, clean it thoroughly to ensure proper adhesion. Remove any debris, such as leaves, dirt, or moss, and make sure the area is as dry as possible.
If the roof is wet, try to dry it off with towels or allow some time for drying before applying Flex Seal. A clean and dry surface allows for better adhesion of the Flex Seal.
Step 3: Apply Flex Seal
If you’re using the spray form of Flex Seal, shake the can thoroughly before use.
For liquid Flex Seal, stir it well. Apply a generous amount of the product evenly over the affected area.
Depending on the severity of the leak, you may need to apply multiple coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding the next one. Flex Seal typically takes 1 to 2 days to cure fully. Apply Flex Seal in a thick and even layer to ensure a strong seal.
Step 4: Monitor And Reapply If Necessary
After applying Flex Seal, continue to monitor the area for any signs of leaking. You may need to reapply periodically, especially if the leak persists or you notice signs of the Flex Seal breaking down over time.
Remember that this is only temporary, and a professional repair may still be necessary. Flex Seal is not a permanent solution and may need to be reapplied over time.
Limitations Of Using Flex Seal On Roof Leaks
Temporary Fix, Not A Permanent Solution
While Flex Seal can offer a temporary solution to a roof leak, it’s crucial to understand that it’s not a long-term fix. In many cases, applying Flex Seal only covers the symptoms without addressing the underlying problem.
Flex Seal might temporarily stop the water, but the source of the leak may persist and worsen over time, leading to more extensive and costly repairs down the road.
Voiding Warranties
One of the most critical aspects of using Flex Seal on your roof is that it can void your roof warranty. Applying products like Flex Seal to your roof, especially over asphalt shingles, compromises the integrity of the materials.
Most roofing manufacturers do not recommend or approve using Flex Seal on their products. By using it, you could lose your protection under both material warranties and workmanship warranties.
Compatibility With Asphalt Shingles
Flex Seal is not designed to work with asphalt shingles, which is common in many residential homes. The product may temporarily cover cracks or leaks but can crack and peel when exposed to UV rays for prolonged periods.
This leads to further damage, not just to the shingles but also to the areas surrounding the original leak. Over time, you’ll have to reapply Flex Seal continuously as the sealant breaks down, resulting in larger patches and more deterioration.
Limited Effectiveness
Flex Seal is not a universal solution for all types of roof leaks. It may be effective for minor leaks but cannot seal larger or more complex ones. Flex Seal is best suited for small, isolated leaks and may not be effective for larger or more complex roof problems.
Professional Repair Is Still Necessary
Even if you use Flex Seal to stop a leak temporarily, you must still contact a professional roofer for a permanent repair. Flex Seal is a temporary solution, and a professional repair is necessary to address the underlying cause of the leak and ensure the long-term integrity of your roof.
Dangers Of Using Flex Seal On Roofs
Cosmetic Issues
While Flex Seal’s practicality may appeal to many DIYers, it has another downside—its cosmetic impact. Applying Flex Seal can leave unsightly black patches on your roof.
If aesthetics and curb appeal are important to you, using Flex Seal may not be the best option, as it can significantly alter the look of your roof. Additionally, overspray or improper application could result in Flex Seal being accidentally sprayed onto other parts of the home, such as siding or gutters, creating an even larger issue.
Flex Seal is a black, rubberised sealant that can create a noticeable contrast with the existing roof material, making it aesthetically unappealing.
Difficulty In Future Repairs
Another risk of using Flex Seal is that it will make future repairs more difficult. The product adheres strongly to surfaces, making it challenging for professionals to remove it when they need to repair the roof properly.
For example, shingles may stick together, making them more prone to tearing or breaking when removed. Ultimately, this increases the cost and complexity of hiring a professional roofer to fix the issue correctly. The strong adhesive properties of Flex Seal can make it difficult to remove, potentially damaging the underlying roofing material during future repairs.
Potential For Damage
Flex Seal can trap moisture beneath the roof surface, leading to mould growth, rot, and further damage to the roofing material. The sealant can create a barrier that prevents moisture from escaping, leading to moisture buildup and potential damage.
Fire Hazard
Flex Seal is flammable and should not be used near open flames or heat sources. Therefore, taking precautions when applying Flex Seal is important to avoid fire hazards.
Conclusion
While Flex Seal offers a quick and temporary fix for roof leaks, it’s important to understand that it is not a permanent solution. Although it can be applied to wet surfaces and may provide short-term relief, its use comes with significant risks, such as voiding warranties, damaging asphalt shingles, and creating cosmetic issues.
Furthermore, it may make future repairs more difficult and costly. While Flex Seal might seem convenient and cost-effective, relying on it could lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs in the long run.
For a permanent solution that protects the integrity of your roof, it’s best to consult a professional roofer who can address the underlying issue properly and ensure lasting results.
FAQs About Flex Seal On A Wet Roof
Can You Use Flex Seal In Wet Conditions?
In the event of a crisis, Flex Seal can be used to seal a wet surface or an environment that contains moisture. On the other hand, it will always stick better to a clean and dry surface. To make sure the Flex Seal lasts as long as possible, we suggest you apply another layer after the area has been allowed to dry thoroughly.
Will Flex Seal Stop Water Leaks?
Yes, it does! Flex Seal has been successfully used for a wide range of applications by a large number of users. We are confident that Flex Seal will meet and exceed all of your expectations, no matter what application you choose to use it for sealing, repairing a leak, or preparing for a storm.
What Is Better, Flex Seal Spray Or Liquid?
Flex Seal and Leak Seal seem to have different curing times. As Flex Seal Products writes, the liquid sealant dries and cures completely in 24-48 hours. As for the spray sealant, Flex Seal Products writes that it dries and cures usually within 24-48 hours.
What Roof Sealant Can Be Applied In The Rain?
ALDOSEAL is a high-solid-content, low-VOC silicone sealant developed specifically for flashings, seams, sealing roof penetrations, curbs, and any other rooftop regions vulnerable to water infiltration.
Should Roofers Work In The Rain?
Can roofing work be done when it’s raining? The answer may surprise you if it turns out to be yes. During the wet season, roof work, such as repairs or replacements, might be carried out. Flat-roof buildings are an exception.
