Many roofing problems, like leaks, can be fixed before they cause significant water damage and mold remediation. Inspecting the interior and exterior of your home and the gutter system helps identify issues that may be causing damage to your roof.
Depending on the type of roofing, surface repair may include shingle repairs or replacement, resealing of the flashing around chimneys and skylights, or repairing damaged sections of the decking.
Roof shingles are available in many different styles and colours, giving homeowners a lot of flexibility when it comes to aesthetics. They also come in a wide variety of thicknesses, offering greater durability for different homes. However, shingles are not indestructible and will likely experience some damage over time, especially due to severe weather. Swift repairs can help to protect the integrity of the roof and prevent leaks and other problems.
If a shingle becomes damaged, it’s essential to remove it promptly and replace it with an identical one. Doing so ensures that water doesn’t seep through the gap created by the missing shingle.
Before you climb onto the roof to make your repair, secure the ladder and ensure that it’s stable. You should also have someone stationed at the base of the ladder to help you in case of a fall. Once you’re safely on the roof, locate the shingle that is damaged. Slide a flat pry bar under the shingle directly above it to loosen the adhesive that holds it in place. Lift it to reveal the nails underneath, then pull the damaged shingle free. You may have to do this for several shingles in a row before the adhesive and nails are completely removed.
Once you have the damaged shingle removed, cut a new shingle to size using tinsnips. Position it in the spot where the old shingle used to be, and use roofing tar to seal the edges and firmly press it down on the roof surface. Afterward, inspect the area for any other loose or damaged shingles. If necessary, re-caulk any areas where the caulking has failed or shrunk.
For a cracked or torn shingle, apply roofing sealant in a thick bead along the edge of the damaged shingle and down the crack to close the gap. Apply a second layer of sealant over the top of the affected shingle to further strengthen the watertight seal. Finally, sprinkle some granules from your eavestrough over the crack to camouflage it. You should leave the granules on the affected shingle for at least 24 hours to allow them to fully set and adhere to the roof surface.
Tiles
Tile roofs are extremely durable, but they can be damaged by falling debris, wind, heat or cold stress, and rain. Damaged tiles need to be repaired, adjusted or replaced quickly. If left unattended, a broken roof tile can cause water leaks into the house. A professional will inspect your tile roof and advise you on the best course of action.
Roofing contractors that specialize in tile repair can restore your damaged roof to like-new condition. If you have an insurance claim, they can also assist with the process and negotiate with your insurance company. The first step in a tile roof repair is to cover the area of the damaged roof. This can be as simple as a blue tarp and offers temporary protection from weather elements. It also allows you to take some time to decide on the next steps in your roof repair.
Before beginning any tile roof repair, it is important to ensure that you have the right tools for the job. This includes safety gear such as gloves, non-slip shoes, and a harness if necessary. Once you’re ready, it’s time to climb the ladder and access the affected areas. Use caution when lifting tiles. If you apply too much pressure, you could break the tile or knock yourself off balance. Once you’ve accessed the damaged tile, carefully pry up the edges with a flat pry bar. Avoid using a hammer or other heavy tool, which can cause further damage to the surrounding tiles.
Once the old tile is removed, spread a small amount of tile roofing cement along the replacement underside. Nails are not required during a tile replacement because they are held in place with the adhesive. Place the new tile over the spot and press down to make sure it is properly aligned and adhered.
There are many different types of roof tiles available, including ceramic, porcelain, and concrete. Some offer a wide range of colors and textures to match any architectural style. Others are designed to resemble other roofing materials, such as chipped stone or shingle-style slate. Unlike shingles, tiles are very durable and can last up to 50 years or more. They also have a low environmental impact, as they do not deplete limited natural resources and require less landfill space. They’re also an excellent insulator, keeping homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Metal
Metal roofs are durable and long-lasting, but they can experience wear and tear that requires repairs. Weather, debris and age can all cause damage to metal roofing, including holes in the surface that let in moisture. In addition, metal roofs can develop rust and other problems that necessitate repair.
Holes in metal roofs are often caused by flying debris, which can puncture the metal and create a hole. This type of repair can be easily done by patching the hole and sealing it with roofing cement. However, larger holes may require replacing the affected panels. A qualified roofer can help you determine the best course of action for your metal roof.
Another common problem with metal roofs is loose or missing fasteners. This is especially common around areas of the roof where there are a lot of penetrations, such as chimneys and vents. Loose or missing fasteners can allow water to seep into the home, causing leaks and interior damage. You can address this issue by tightening loose screws, nails or fasteners and adding new ones where necessary. You should also check the flashing surrounding any roof penetrations to ensure that it is properly installed and not damaged or missing.
Other metal roof repair issues include rust and oxidation. Metal roofs are susceptible to rust, particularly in humid or salt-water environments. Rust can corrode the metal, resulting in holes that can lead to water leaks. You can reduce the risk of rusting by regularly cleaning the metal roof and applying a rust-inhibiting primer to any areas that show signs of corrosion.
If you notice a leak or other problems with your metal roof, it is important to hire a professional to perform the repair. A professional can make sure the repair is done correctly to ensure the longevity of your roof. In addition, a professional will know how to locate and repair leaks in attics and joists. This can save homeowners money in the long run, as repairing leaks quickly can help prevent further damage and costly repairs down the road. Hiring a professional can also save homeowners time and stress, which is beneficial when dealing with a major home project like a roof repair or replacement.
Built-up roofing (BUR)
Built-up roofing is an excellent option for commercial buildings, primarily because it’s extremely durable and adds extra protection. While it is a bit more costly than other major commercial roofing systems, BUR’s longevity and minimal maintenance costs are a good value for your building.
In fact, when BUR is properly maintained and repaired, it can last 30+ years. That’s a long lifecycle, especially when you consider that it is often covered by a guarantee or warranty.
What makes a BUR roof unique is its multiple layers. It starts with some type of insulation, then 4-5 layers of fiberglass felt, hot asphalt, or cold-processed adhesive are applied in one smooth coat. The final layer is a granulated surface that provides added waterproofing and UV protection. The layers also provide redundancy so if one layer is damaged, the other layers will continue to protect your building.
This system is highly energy-efficient as well. The layer of white granules helps to reflect the sun’s rays, maintaining a cool building temperature and lowering the energy bills. Additionally, the textured surface of the BUR allows for better traction when you have equipment on the roof (e.g. solar array, mechanical systems) or you want to create a green roof or outdoor living space.
Depending on the type of system, you may be able to add insulation materials to your BUR roof, increasing its efficiency even more. A BUR system can also be topped with a white reflective cap sheet to help you meet cool roofing requirements.
A BUR roof that isn’t regularly inspected and properly repaired can quickly develop issues. Common problems include open joints, blisters, and cracking that allow water to infiltrate the interior of your building. While some repairs can be made with a patch, most are best addressed by hiring a commercial roofing contractor that can perform a full inspection and make the necessary repair to your BUR roof.
The right commercial roofing system will depend on your climate, building design, and budget. Be sure to talk with a professional commercial roofing contractor about the benefits and drawbacks of each type of roofing system before making your decision.