Every homeowner will have to deal with a roof repair during the lifetime of their home. While you want your roof to last for a very long time, accidents can cause damage to your structure. You can tackle some of those repairs by yourself. However, you need to leave the significant damage to the professionals. With this ultimate troubleshooting guide to roof repairs, you can fix some of those minor issues.
Avoid Costly Roofing Repairs
If you need to replace your roof, it can cost thousands of dollars. While you want to avoid spending a lot of money, there are times when it is absolutely necessary to call a professional team to repair your home. For some repairs, you might be able to fix them by yourself. With a few tools and materials, you can keep your home safe and avoid a high repair bill.
When a storm hits your area, it can cause tree branches to fall and damage your roof. If you see a leak, you shouldn’t start to panic. Some leaks or ripped shingles do not always spell extreme damage. These issues can be fixed by a replacement of the flashing or installing new shingles on your roof. On average, the typical roof repair will cost around $800. These numbers may seem high, but these fixes are significantly lower than a new roof installation. In some cases, you can repair your roof for only the cost of materials.
Before you grab a ladder and hit the roof, you need to know about the complications from attempting roof repairs by yourself. Any work on a roof can be dangerous, and you want to proceed with caution. For a professional opinion on the repair, you might need to call a roofing company to check out your roof. If you are uncomfortable handling these issues, then you should hire a contractor to complete the work.
Replace That Flashing
Flashing is used to protect the seams that run along your skylights or chimneys. Flashing comes in a variety of materials, but the most common types are plastic or sheet metal. You will find flashing underneath your roofing layers as it protects your home’s essential components, such as the venting pipes. If the flashing gets damaged, your roof and the surrounding parts are prone to deterioration from the outdoor elements. These roof repairs are simple. You need to purchase new flashing and swap it out for the damaged pieces. If there are any cracked shingles or other materials, then these parts will have to be replaced as well.
Reseal Small Areas
On your roof, you might notice that the sealant is used with the flashing. This adhesive is commonly found around the edges of skylights and vents. If you have issues with leaking, then your bond may be worn out. When sealant ages, it can lose its bonding properties. As a result, you will have a roof leak around the vents or other open areas. These problems are another easy fix. You will have to recaulk those leaky areas or apply new tar to your roof.
Fix Those Damaged Shingles
Throughout the life of your roof, shingles can go missing or become damaged. There are many reasons why you need to replace shingles. Severe weather can blow them off your roof. Animals
can also be very destructive. They can dig into your roof and break the shingles.
If you want to repair these issues, you need to remove the old shingles. New shingles can be purchased at your local home hardware store. You might have to replace a large section of shingles for damage caused by ice dams or pooling water. In the future, you need to keep your gutters clean to avoid any of these drainage issues.
Vent Boot Replacement
The venting boot works in a similar manner as flashing. This component seals your vent against moisture. If there is a leak in your home, then you might want to look at replacing this part. You will have to lift away the surrounding materials and install the new component. Once you are finished, make sure to add caulk around the boot for a tight seal.
Check Those Corroded Vertical Slits
For those homes with a tile roof, you need to check out the vertical slits. You can find these parts at the spot where each tile overlaps on the roof. This area is vulnerable to damage, and they can easily rust. Water on your roof travels over these slits and causes deterioration over the years. Once you notice the damage, you want to replace these corroded tiles and slits as soon as possible.
Temporary Solutions for Roof Damage
Your roof is tough, but some things can still cause significant damage to your home. Severe weather, falling heavy branches, and wildlife might create punctures and holes in your roof. While it may be tempting to repair these issues by yourself, it is best left to the professionals. They have the materials and skills to repair holes in your roof. In some cases, you might have to reframe the damaged part of your roof.
If a severe storm has hit your area, it may take a few days for the roofing company to come out to your home. You can try to cover up the damage with temporary material and roofing caulk. However, some of these DIY fixes can cause bigger repair bills. For severe damage to your roof, you want to leave it to the professionals. You should try to tarp the area and keep it covered until a professional company comes to your home.
We Can Help With Those Roofing Issues
With these simple repairs, you can fix your roof without breaking the bank. However, severe roof repairs will need to be handled by a professional team. If you are looking to maintain the life of your roof, you should have an inspection conducted every few years. For those roofing questions or to schedule a visit, call the RGB Construction team at 856-264-9093.
