To start with, it’s a good idea to do a thorough inspection of your roof. You can do this by going into your attic if you have one or using a ladder to access the exterior.
Re-roofing involves adding a layer of shingles directly over the old ones. This offers both functional and aesthetic benefits. For more information, contact your local Roofing Company King of Prussia.
Damaged Shingles or Tiles
If you’re noticing that one or more shingles are missing or are damaged in some other way, don’t wait to make repairs. Missing shingles can let water in, which may lead to other roof problems later on. Replacing these shingles is the most common roofing repair job, but there are also ways to fix shingle problems that can be less costly but just as effective.
Replacing a damaged shingle involves removing the old shingle and replacing it with a new shingle. You’ll need a few key tools, including a hammer, flat pry bar and utility knife and a handful of 11/4-in. roofing nails.
Slip the pry bar under the shingle, and carefully pry upward until the nail pops up about 1/4 in. Then pull out the nail and remove the shingle. It’s a good idea to do this in cool weather, as the asphalt sealant that holds the shingle in place is more easily sheared off by a pry bar in cooler conditions.
When you’re ready to replace the shingle, locate any leftovers from the last time the roof was worked on (with luck, the builder or the roofer left a few behind). If not, purchase a bundle of standard three-tab shingles that are close in color and pattern to the existing ones on your roof.
Once you’ve located the shingle to replace, slide your pry bar under it and work around the edge, loosening and lifting each of the surrounding tabs. Pull off the damaged shingle, then insert the new shingle in its place, securing it with a nail on each side. Once you’ve replaced all the damaged shingles, apply a bead of roof cement to the top of each to prevent moisture infiltration.
If a corner of a shingle is beginning to curl downward or upward, you can forestall this process by applying a bead of roof cement under the affected area and pressing it down. It’s a good idea to apply a thick bead of sealant here, since this is one of the most common areas where leaks occur.
Leaks
A roof leak is a problem in need of immediate repair. If you’ve got a roof that’s not properly protected, water can seep into shingles or the roof system and cause extensive damage. In addition, the water can drip down walls, leaving stains and creating a damp environment conducive to mold.
If you suspect a leak, the first thing you should do is place a bucket or other container underneath it to catch the water. This will prevent water from ruining your carpets or other belongings in the house. You should also move anything that you can to another area of the house, such as a bed or furniture. If possible, cover any furniture that can’t be moved with a tarp or blanket to protect it from water damage and stains.
The next step is to examine the ceiling and wall areas for signs of water damage. Brown stains and damp spots are signs of a roof leak. You should also look for stains on the attic floor. These are signs that the attic ventilation isn’t adequate and could be caused by condensation or a plumbing leak.
A leaking roof can be a real pain, but there are ways to limit the damage until a professional can get to it. If you have access to your attic and can safely climb up there, you can try and track the leak to its source by finding where it first appears in the attic or ceiling below. However, the way water travels can be deceiving and you may end up tracking it to a spot that is quite distant from where the water actually comes in from your roof.
You can also enlist the help of someone else who can go up on the roof with you and use a garden hose to soak suspected areas of the roof. Start at the lowest point on the roof and work your way up, checking each area as you go. If you see a dark stain or a puddle that hasn’t disappeared with the running hose, mark the location on the roof and tell the roofing professionals where to find it.
Damaged Flashing
When roof flashing is damaged, it can allow water to enter the home and cause a number of problems. These include wood rot, damp walls or ceilings and even mould. Leaks can also damage the timber joists and frames in the ceilings and walls, potentially leading to collapsed ceilings or a sagging roof.
If you notice a leak in the ceilings, it’s important to contact an experienced roofing company right away and arrange for a roof inspection. If the leak is caught and repaired promptly, it’s likely that no further damage will occur to the structure of the building.
Flashing is made of galvanised steel or other metals that have been coated with a protective finish. Over time, this can corrode and expose the metal to water which causes damage. If you have any signs of rust or corrosion on your roof flashing, it’s important to contact a professional right away and arrange for a repair or replacement.
Another common problem with flashing is a bend or crack in the material. This may seem minor but it can break the galvanised coating on steel or weaken the structure of other metals, leaving them more vulnerable to water penetration. Bends and cracks in the flashing can also leave gaps that can allow moisture into the roof.
The most common way that flashing is repaired is to remove the old section and replace it. This requires a ladder and some safety gear but is a relatively simple process. A professional can do this for you, ensuring that the new flashing is properly installed and sealed.
If the flashing is in good condition and you just need a small repair, it’s possible to fix the issue yourself using a patching compound. Start by cleaning the area and removing any debris that could prevent the sealant from adhering to the surface. Apply the patching compound and use a putty knife to smooth it out. Once the compound has dried, you can paint it to match the rest of your roof. It’s also advisable to have an experienced roofer like KY-KO Roofing conduct annual maintenance on your roof and its components, including the flashing. This ensures that any issues are detected and fixed early on before they become major problems.
The Decision
Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime, so it’s important to keep up with necessary repairs and maintenance. Whether you have a few minor roof repair needs or you’re considering a re-roof for aesthetic reasons, it’s essential to assess your roof in its entirety. Be sure to check for damp stains or rotted beams, as these are red alert signs that your roof may need serious repair or replacement. If you have any doubts, consult with a trusted roofing company and get your home back to normal. Keeping your roof in good condition is critical to your family’s safety and comfort.