What is the best sealant to temporarily fix a leaking shingle roof?

The best temporary sealant for a leaking shingle roof is roofing cement or a flexible elastomeric roof sealant applied directly over the leak path until a proper repair is completed. Most shingle leaks start at failed flashing, lifted tabs, or small nail holes around vents and chimneys, so sealing those edges and fasteners is the short-term goal, not a final fix. We frequently address these exact issues for homeowners in the Bloomfield Hills area and then perform permanent repairs under our Leak Free Guarantee on repairs.

When a quick, temporary seal is appropriate:

• Area is small and accessible, and rain has paused long enough to dry the surface.
• You can safely reach the spot without walking on steep or icy sections.
• The shingle can be pressed flat and the crack or hole is visible.
• You have roof-rated cement or elastomeric sealant, not general-purpose caulk.

If water is near electrical fixtures or a ceiling is sagging, avoid the roof and call a professional immediately. <br/> Updated: 2026-06-05 <br/> Need help in Bloomfield Hills, MI? Call (586) 300-4163 or book online. "Rich was informative, professional, and repaired the roof leak efficiently." — Dawn M.