A roof is a key structural component of any home. When it is damaged, it can lead to leaks, mold and mildew, pest infestations, higher energy bills, and resale problems.
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Your roof and the shingles that cover it take a beating throughout the year. Sudden severe storms, hot and cold temperatures, direct sunlight, aging and improper installation can all damage the integrity of your shingles. This is why it’s important to keep up with roof maintenance and inspections so that small issues don’t turn into big ones.
If your roof is damaged, you might need to replace a few of the shingles. If this is the case, it’s a simple repair that you can do yourself. You’ll just need a few supplies: a pry bar, hammer, utility knife and some replacement shingles. Begin by locating the first row of nails that hold the shingle you wish to remove. Use the pry bar to loosen and break the sealer strip connection, then slowly lift the shingle. Next, pull out the nails and discard the shingle. Before you install the new shingle, apply a dab of sealant to help with weatherproofing.
Shingle cracking is another common problem that can occur. This is usually caused by high winds or a change in temperature, and can result in moisture seeping through your roof and damaging the interior of your home. To fix a cracked shingle, loosen it from the nail strip with a pry bar and carefully peel back. Use a utility knife to cut off the loose edge of the shingle and remove any underlying pieces. Then, place the new shingle in its proper spot and secure it with roofing nails.
It’s a good idea to have plenty of replacement shingles on hand so that you can continue to do these simple repairs as needed. Purchasing a bundle of shingles that closely matches your existing shingles will make the process easier and ensure that the finished product looks like it belongs on your roof.
If you notice that some of your shingles are starting to lighten in color, it’s a sign that they are nearing the end of their lifespan. This can be due to excessive sun exposure, and is also a sign that it’s time to consider a roof replacement.
Damaged Flashing
A roof’s flashing helps to prevent leaks by adding another layer of protection that redirects water away from the roof. Without flashing or with damaged flashing, moisture can seep into a house, causing damage and potentially leading to mold and mildew. This is why it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs that your roof flashing may need repairs.
Typical flashing damage can include rust or corrosion, cracks, or holes. These may occur from the natural aging process, but also due to weathering, as well as through physical damage caused by fallen branches, hail, or wind. Flashing can also become weakened by the freeze-thaw cycle that occurs each winter, as the ice surrounding the flashing expands and then contracts when it thaws. This can cause small cracks to develop in the flashing, which will eventually allow water to penetrate your roof.
In many cases, a roof repair specialist can simply replace the damaged section of flashing to resolve the issue. However, in extreme conditions, a roof repair expert may need to remove and replace the entire piece of flashing.
If the flashing is only partially damaged, the roof repair specialist can apply a patch to the area with roofing cement. For smaller holes, this can be a quick and inexpensive solution. However, for more significant holes or gaps, the roofing professional will need to remove the shingles around the area of the damage and then replace the flashing.
A skilled roofer will also look at the flashing when inspecting a property for potential leaks or other problems. They will examine the flashing to look for rust, holes, or any other signs of trouble, and then will make the necessary repairs to ensure that water does not seep into the home.
When examining your roof, it is recommended to wear sturdy work boots and safety glasses. It’s also best to use a ladder that is in good condition and set on level ground, before climbing up to the roof to check for flashing damage. It’s also a good idea to check with a local roofing expert before attempting to fix the flashing yourself, as it could lead to further damage and leaking, as well as posing a health and safety risk.
Damaged Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Built-up roofing, or BUR, is a tried and true commercial roofing option for flat or low-sloped roofs. Known for its durability, it protects against a wide range of environmental threats with multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics. Its robust construction also makes it less susceptible to leaks than other roof systems.
Aside from its robust structural capabilities, BUR also provides a number of other benefits for commercial properties. Its insulating qualities reduce energy costs, while its fire resistance adds an extra layer of safety for the building’s tenants. Its layered structure is highly resistant to physical damage, meaning it can withstand the force of falling branches or debris that would cause more delicate flat roofs to crack or puncture.
Despite its superior waterproofing properties, BUR can be susceptible to leaks if the installation process is not completed correctly or if the system is not properly maintained. The seams between the different layers of a BUR roof are particularly vulnerable to water infiltration, so it is important to ensure that these areas are properly sealed and maintained.
If a leak does occur, it is essential to act quickly. Detecting leaks in early stages is critical to minimizing their impact and the associated repair costs. Regular inspections and maintenance are an effective way to keep the BUR system in good condition. This includes keeping the drainage system clear of debris, addressing deteriorating flashing and preventing ponding water.
As a general rule, repairs to BUR roofs are straightforward, but they must be completed by an experienced and licensed roofing professional. Common BUR repairs include repairing open joints, granule loss, blistering and waves in the surface, and cracks or leaks that develop over time.
In addition to identifying these signs of damage, a facility manager should schedule regular inspections and maintenance on a BUR roof. This will help to prevent damage and extend the lifespan of the system. The right facility management software, such as Q Ware, can provide a comprehensive maintenance scheduling solution that includes automated alerts and customized schedules. This will minimize the risk of costly surprises and allow you to get your roof back in shape sooner.
Damaged Wood Shake
When a shake roof experiences severe damage, such as a split shingle or major hail damage, it may be time to redo the entire roof. If this is the case, a professional roofing contractor will need to assess the overall condition of the wood shakes and compare the cost of replacing all damaged shakes with the cost of installing an entirely new roof.
Shake shingles can also suffer from a number of other problems that cause leaks and water damage to the home. These include curling and cupping, which occur when the edges of the shingle lift upwards. This is often due to excessive moisture, temperature fluctuations, and natural aging of the shakes. This problem can lead to gaps that allow water to seep through, causing serious water damage inside the home.
To repair a damaged shake, first, carefully remove the old shingle, ensuring that you do not break the adjacent shales. Once the shake has been removed, make sure that the area where the shingle was located is completely clean. Then, place a wooden block flat on the roof to protect the shakes below from damage. Using a 16-inch nail bar, pry up on the lower edge of the shake on one side. Once the shake is lifted, the nails can be re-nailed with a hammer or shingle hatchet.
Next, cut a piece of membrane to size and liberally apply roofing cement around the damaged area. Place the patch over the gap and press firmly. Finally, use a roller to smooth the patch and ensure that it is completely adhered.
In addition to repairing cracked or missing shingles, it is important to inspect the roof regularly to identify small issues before they become bigger problems. A well-maintained wood shake roof will be less likely to experience moss growth and other issues that can detract from the beauty of the roof.
Inspect the roof to look for small cracks and splits, as well as areas of mold or mildew. Clean moss and algae growth with a water and white vinegar mixture or commercial moss remover to avoid damaging the shakes. Also, regularly clean the roof surface to prevent water infiltration. Additionally, apply a cedar-friendly sealant or wood preservative every few years to protect the shakes from moisture and UV damage. In addition, trim overhanging branches to reduce the amount of debris that can rub against the shakes or fall onto them during stormy weather.