The roof is an integral part of any house. But just like any other part of your home, the roof is also susceptible to damage and leaks. Leaks and major damage can be fixed with the help of a professional roofer, but minor defects can be fixed by yourself. Here are 10 quick tips on roof repair:
1) Think Safety First
Trying to locate a leak as soon as it occurs can land you in a hospital. Climbing onto a roof that is completely covered in snow is not the best way to find a leak. In fact, you should avoid doing the same while it’s raining. When you try to temporarily fix a leak, it can be very dangerous. There is no known quick fix for any roofing problem. Take your time, be patient, and wait for the perfect weather to fix it.
2) Take the necessary precautions
Working on a rooftop will force you into positions that are uncomfortable or unsafe. Just put on a pair of rubber-soled shoes, as it prevents slipping. Take the help of a harness and your friend for added precaution.
3) Spray the ceiling
Take the garden hose in your hands, go up to the roof and start spraying in various places on the roof to locate the leak. However, this policy is good only in the summers and never think about doing it during the winter as it is never safe to spray water on the roof in sub-zero temperatures.
4) Keep gutters clean
The most common cause of a roof leak is a clogged gutter. A clogged gutter will always cause water to pool as long as there is a reasonable amount of rain.
5) Avoid dry rot
This problem is not exactly related to water damage but mainly to lack of ventilation. If the repair is right in the center of the ceiling, it is most likely due to deteriorating plywood. If so, then the roof will start to sag and the shingles will start to become brittle, crack and eventually start to leak. If you hope to prevent dry rot, then you need to install a ridge vent. However, this ridge vent will only work when a soffit vent is installed.
6) Prevent ice buildup
During the winter, ice can easily accumulate under gutters, shingles, and roofing membrane. The ice usually re-accumulates right at the point on the wall line where the house warms up thus creating interior dripping. To remedy this problem, you must install a drip ridge along with ice and rain guards and proper ventilation.
7) Fix Roof Boots
Skylights are obvious places for leaks, but one thing we miss is the need for rubber boots. You can buy a new pair of roofing boots at any hardware store.
8) Inspect materials
If the shingles are defective, they will begin to crack even after you have successfully nailed them. Faulty installation with tiles and nails play a big role in leaks. If the nails are driven in too low, they will start to push up. So check your gear before you go up on the roof.
9) Check valleys
The intersection where the two roofs meet is known as the valley. These are known to be very common places for leaks because this is where water from the roof collects and will eventually start to slosh around.
10) Eliminate Leaks
Still unable to locate leaks even after trying for the umpteenth time? Don’t get discouraged easily. After all, it’s part of the removal process that involves planning and a lot of patience.
