Identifying Roof Repair Needs
Identifying roof repair needs early, whether you have water stains or other damage, can save you money and frustration down the road. Keeping an eye out for shingles that are missing or damaged, along with other telltale signs of roof damage, can help prolong the life of your roof and protect what lies beneath.
Shingles are the most visible element of any roof and they provide a critical function: protection. Through a careful layering pattern, shingles create a waterproof barrier that keeps water and other elements from penetrating your home. But like anything else, shingles can become damaged and need to be repaired or replaced. Visit https://www.corpuschristiroofingco.com/ to learn more.
Shingle damage is typically the first sign of a problem with your roof. You can often see the damage by examining your roof (always use caution when climbing on your roof, wear a hard hat and work with a partner). If you do notice shingle damage, it’s important to understand what caused it. Shingles can be damaged by a number of things, including weather conditions, improper ventilation, moisture problems and even age.
The first step in shingle repair is to remove any overlapping roofing material that’s near the damaged area. This prevents damage to the intact shingles and makes it easier to get to the damaged shingle. Once the overlapping shingles are removed, you can start working on the damaged shingle itself. Slide a flat pry bar underneath the shingle above the damaged section and gently lift up to break the glue seal that holds it down. Once the sealant is broken, the shingle will pull up easily and can be removed.
You’ll need to replace the damaged shingle with one that matches in color, texture and style with the others on your roof. Mismatched shingles not only look bad, they’re also more likely to allow water into your home. If you’re filing an insurance claim for shingle damage, the insurer will likely require that the replacement shingles match the existing ones in terms of hue and texture to keep your home’s value high.
If a shingle is simply cracked, rather than torn, you can fix it by applying a bead of roof sealant (about $10 per 10-oz. tube at home improvement stores) to the underside of the crack and weighing it down with a brick until it’s dry. You can then apply another bead of sealant over the top and spread it with a putty knife.
Flashing
Flashing is a flexible yet durable material, usually made from metal, used to prevent water from seeping into a structure through joints or penetrations. It is installed where the roof plane meets a vertical surface such as a chimney, wall, or dormer, and it is also used around areas where the slope of a roof changes, like valleys or around skylights. Flashing is a vital component of your roof that protects it from leaks and helps to extend its lifespan.
A roof leak is one of the most common and severe problems homeowners face, and it can wreak havoc on your home. The moisture that seeps beneath your roof shingles can cause rot, mold, mildew, and structural damage. While sealant can repair some leaks, flashing is designed to prevent them from occurring in the first place and can increase your roof’s lifespan by protecting underlying materials such as the attic floor and ceiling.
While a professional should always inspect your roof for any issues, if the flashing is damaged or rusted, it will need to be replaced. This is particularly important in areas where rain and snow frequently fall, or after extreme weather events that can damage your roof.
There are a number of different types of flashing that can be used in roofing, each with its own purpose. Step flashing, for example, consists of short pieces of metal that are positioned to overlap the shingle course above them. Counter flashing is a type of flashing that is used in conjunction with brick walls or structures and is typically shaped like an “L” to fit the base. Apron flashing is a long piece of metal that slips over a pipe or vent, and it is typically bent over the back side of the shingle course to create a watertight seal.
A specialized type of flashing is an electrical mast flashing, which is designed to provide a waterproof seal around the cable or pipe that carries electricity from the utility pole to your building. This specialized flashing can be used in conjunction with a corrugated metal roof to create a waterproof barrier that will protect the electrical system in your building from water and other debris.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Built-up roofing (BUR) is a time-tested roofing system that is used in a variety of climates and environments. This layered system provides insulation, waterproofing, durability, and longevity. The system is also flexible, allowing it to accommodate building movements and thermal expansion.
A BUR roof consists of multiple layers of ply sheets or felts and asphalt that are applied over the substrate. The resulting roof is a durable and reliable protective barrier against weather elements, including sun exposure, ice dams, high winds, and other potential damage. The multiple layers also provide a level of protection against moisture and vapors, improving a facility’s energy efficiency and comfort.
The installation process is long and complex, requiring the expertise of a professional roofing contractor. After the layers are applied, the roof is cured and inspected for leaks and other weaknesses. The tar and gravel look may not suit the aesthetic preferences of some building owners or architects, but options like reflective coatings can improve the appearance of the roof.
While BUR roofs are highly durable, they can be damaged by poor installation and improper maintenance. If a problem is not fixed quickly, it can lead to leaking and water infiltration.
When repairs are needed, a multi-ply smooth surface BUR system can be restored by resurfacing the roof with a flood coat of asphalt, a fibered aluminum roof coating, a white or pigmented elastomeric roof coating, and/or a layer of gravel. Unlike shingle roofs, it’s best to call a roofing company as soon as possible to address damage or leaks in a BUR system so that the repair process is shorter and less costly.
As a popular choice for low-slope and flat commercial buildings, BURs are commonly seen on warehouses, industrial buildings, manufacturing plants, parking garages, airport terminals, and sports arenas. The layered construction of this roofing system is ideal for these types of facilities, as it offers a combination of durability and resiliency to protect against heavy foot traffic and harsh weather conditions. With proper maintenance and regular inspections, a BUR roof can last for decades.
Siding
Siding is the first line of defense for your home against rain, snow, hail and other environmental impacts. It also provides insulation, adds a unique aesthetic and curb appeal and contributes to the structural integrity of your house. However, just like the roof, your siding needs repair or replacement due to damage and aging.
It’s important to take proactive steps to maintain your siding, including regular inspections and repairs by a licensed contractor. This will prevent the impact of one problem from traveling to other areas of your home and causing more expensive repairs. In addition, being proactive with roofing maintenance can prevent leaks that can travel down to your siding and cause damage.
When choosing a contractor to work on your siding, it’s important to consider their experience and expertise with the material you want installed. Ask for a list of past clients and reviews and make sure to choose a company that has both a license to work in your area and the necessary insurance. You should also ask for a warranty on their labor and materials to ensure that you’re protected in the event something goes wrong during installation or repair.
While some minor repairs can be tackled by a handy homeowner, larger projects and complete replacements should always be left to professionals. Not only will this protect the structural integrity of your home, it will help keep it in pristine condition for years to come and increase its resale value.
In addition to siding, other exterior components that need repair or replacement include windows, gutters and the foundation. By taking the time to select a quality contractor for your roofing, siding, gutter and foundation repairs, you’ll be making a long-term investment in your home.
A well-maintained roof, gutters and siding not only keeps your home safe from weather damage and pests but can increase its resale value. With a professional installation, high-quality materials and regular maintenance, your siding will last longer, provide better protection against the elements, boost curb appeal and improve resale value.