Facilities professionals know that any roof repair job should begin with a thorough inspection. They also know that they’ll need to have tarps, magnetic tools and other items ready before beginning the job.
It’s hard to imagine anyone enjoying working on a leaky, sagging or otherwise damaged roof during a storm with high winds and torrential rain. Nevertheless, roof repair is often the most cost-effective solution to damage caused by weather and everyday wear and tear.
A roof’s shingles are its outermost layer, protecting the home from rain and sunlight. If the shingles are damaged, the entire roof may be compromised. Repairing or replacing a section of the shingles can be an affordable and attractive alternative to a complete roof replacement. The type of shingle chosen to replace the damaged one is an important consideration. The new shingle should be a close color match with the existing ones, and it should be rated to withstand your region’s weather conditions.
If you have a section of your roof that needs repair, first try to see if there are any leftover shingles from the last time it was worked on (with any luck, the roofer left some behind). If not, you’ll need to buy a bundle at a home center or lumberyard ($15 to $20 per square–100 sq. ft.–of standard three-tab shingles).
Before you can start working on the damaged shingle, the nail that holds it down needs to be removed. Shingles are bonded to each other with asphalt sealant spots, and these bonds can be broken by sliding a flat pry bar carefully underneath the target shingle’s edge. This should lift the shingle enough to expose the nail, which can be pulled up and out with a pair of pliers. It’s best to break these sealant bonds in cool weather, as the shingles will be stiffer and more easily sheared by the pry bar than in warm weather.
Once the nails have been removed, slide a new shingle in place and re-nail the adjacent shingles. Putting down a bead of roof sealant (available for $10 to $20 at home improvement centers) along the base of the shingle is also recommended. This will help keep your repair job from becoming a leaky roof before its time.
During your roof repair project, it’s a good idea to secure any other loose shingles as well. Besides keeping water from seeping in under the damaged shingles, these touch-ups can extend the life of your roof immensely. The same goes for indirect maintenance, like regular tree trimming by an experienced service to avoid branches dropping on your roof and damaging shingles.
Flashing
While roofs appear to be simple constructions from the ground, they are actually intricate and carefully engineered systems. One important part of any roof system is flashing, which helps protect vulnerable parts of the roof. If your roof flashing is damaged or leaking, it can threaten the entire integrity of your home’s structure and may require costly repairs.
Flashing is made of thin pieces of impervious material installed to decrease the passage of water into a wall or other structure from a joint or seam. It’s generally made of galvanized steel or copper, although lead and other metals are also used. Flashing is a critical component of most roofing systems because it reinforces and seals the places where most roof leaks occur.
There are many types of flashing, each designed to meet specific needs. Roof flashing is installed where leaks are most prone to occur, such as roof valleys (where two downward slopes meet) and roof penetrations like chimneys, plumbing vents, and skylights. Some types of flashing are designed to be installed along walls, including step and wall flashing.
Another type of flashing is a chimney flashing, which sits in the crevasse around a chimney and keeps water from seeping into the house. Chimney flashing is commonly made of lead, but it can also be made of aluminum or stainless steel. Some chimney flashings are even clad in copper, which is known for its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Other types of flashing include counterflashing and apron flashing. Counterflashing is sheet metal that’s placed over the top of a run of base flashing. Apron flashing is a long piece of metal that covers the joint between the roof and the wall, often running the length of the roof.
While some homeowners attempt to replace flashing themselves, it’s typically a job best left to professionals. Proper installation requires a high degree of skill and experience. If improperly installed, flashing can leak and damage the shingles below it.
Even flashing that’s properly installed can be subject to wear and tear from harsh weather conditions. For this reason, it’s important to inspect your flashing regularly and have it repaired when needed. Inspecting your flashing can help you spot potential problems before they worsen and lead to costly repairs.
Gutters
Gutters are troughs attached to a roofline that help control the drainage of rainwater off shingles. They collect and divert rainwater into downspouts that dispense water on the ground or in an underground drainage system, keeping your soil, foundation and greenery healthy and your house dry. Without gutters, rainwater may overflow or seep into a house, causing mold, rotting wood fascia, wet drywall and other interior damage. Gutters also keep moisture off the siding of a house, preventing rot and peeling paint, as well as helping to preserve a house’s structural integrity.
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the gutters to remove debris and re-caulking the seals. It’s important to do this regularly so that the gutters are free of clogs, which can lead to overflowing and water leaks. In addition, gutters that are loose or pull away from the house can cause soil erosion and undermine the foundation.
When repairing a gutter, it’s a good idea to do the work while it’s dry and easy to reach. A ladder and a pair of work gloves will provide access to the gutters, which are usually held by sleeve-and-spike supports or fascia brackets nailed to the wall or face of the fascia board, or strap hangers nailed to the roof.
Leaking is common in older gutters, and most can be repaired with roof-and-gutter repair tape. Before applying the tape, scrape off any rusty spots and wire-brush the gutter to prepare it for bonding. Then cut the appropriate size of the rolled flashing from a home center and nail it to the gutter with sheet metal screws, using the supplied screw holes as guides. Be sure the flashing is overlapped by at least 2 in.
Homeowners can also protect their gutters from clogs by installing a screen, which keeps out most debris but allows small seedlings and pine needles to pass through. Screens are less expensive than gutter guards and sold at many home centers, although they may not block all clogs. In cold climates, homeowners should also consider installing roof-edge heating cables to prevent ice dams from building up on the roof.
Soffit
The soffit is the underside of your roof overhang and can be made from wood, aluminum, or vinyl. It is crucial in preventing problems such as attic mold, excess moisture, and pest infestation. It also helps to keep cool, dry air in your attic and warm, humid air out. It is also a barrier to precipitation that could damage your roof frame and home’s foundation. If you see signs of rot, discoloration, or cracks on your soffit, it’s time to call in a professional roofer.
A fascia is a vertical finishing edge connected to the area where the gutters attach to your roof. Its primary function is to protect the wooden boards that make up your roof’s edge and the house from water damage. It directs rainwater away from the eaves and stops it from entering your home through the roof or through gaps in your exterior walls.
Fascia is also important for your home’s curb appeal. It gives your roof a finished, complete look and creates an even appearance to the eaves. You can tell when your fascia needs repair or replacement by looking for signs of rotting, sagging, and discoloration.
If your fascia has wood rot, mold, mildew, or insect infestation, it is best to have a professional contractor replace it. A professional can ensure your home is protected and that the job is done right the first time.
A professional roofer, gutter specialist, or carpenter can restore and replace your soffit and fascia with ease and beauty. They understand how the components interact with the rest of your roof, so they can identify hidden problems before starting the repair. This saves you money and prevents costly repairs down the road. Plus, they can use materials that are designed to withstand the elements, which can extend the life of your roof. They can also address issues such as attic ventilation, home energy efficiency, and moisture problems. These can lead to significant issues like mildew and rot if left unattended. Keeping your soffit and fascia in good condition will add to the overall life of your roof and home.