Most homeowners overlook the need for roof restoration because they are unaware of the significance of this kind of renovation. An old roof cannot be efficient. And because the roof gets the maximum exposure to all weather conditions, it is crucial to service it regularly. Below are some tips to help you rip the benefits of roof restoration.
- First, be safe
Once you identify a problem you should fix your roof immediately. However, it is not always possible to do it quickly. At times, you might have to wait until the weather is favorable.
Carry out any roof works when it is not too windy or rainy because a damp roof is hazardous. High temperatures may cause damage to the newly replaces shingles. When it is too cold, the shingles can break while extreme heat toughens the sealant. Additionally, high temperatures can prevent the sealant from adhering correctly. At times, power lines cross over the roof and can cause accidents.
Ensure the area you are working is cordoned against children and pets. Use a stable ladder to assess the roof and take advantage of the security that safety gear gives. Use harnesses, ropes, and belts to anchor you into the roof frames.
- Identify leaking spots
If you notice leaking areas, it is crucial to decide whether to make repairs, restoration, or replacement. If the entire roof is okay and has only two or three weak spots from falling twigs from a storm, you can only decide to do long-lasting repairs.
Additionally, if the roof has signs of general tear and wear, the repairs you make will only work temporarily, because there are chances for several other leaks to appear soon. If this is the case, roof replacement is the best option. Even if you start replacing immediately, you first need to plan, prepare in terms of time and money. During this time, you will need to use simple tools from your garage and locally available materials such as plastic sheets and plywood.
- Replace shingles
During your regular roof assessment, you might discover a few loose shingles. A loose tile is a leaking spot. You can replace them by yourself if you are a DIY homeowner. With a few tools and elbow grease, you can fix the shingles and shakes in no time. In case you have a few more shingles that remained in the initial roof installation, you do not need to purchase new ones.
Carefully remove all the broken pieces by gently tapping a flat bar below the piece. If you force it, the shingle will rip off. Each shingle is tightened with eight nails. Four are fastened at the center and the other four through the tile above. Once it is out, place a new underlayment, and then lay over the new ones. If you notice the ridge capping is also damaged, you need the services of roofing pro to handle it. This is because it will need rebidding and replacing the ridge caps. While up there, they can also inspect the entire roof that might have escaped your eyes.
- Fix the vents
The roof system also includes the vents. Whether you decide to do roof repair or restoration, do not neglect the vents. Roof vents facilitate stabilizing the internal temperature between the attic and the roof. If the vents are not installed during construction, your roof will be susceptible to ice and snow build-up. This would mean no warm would reach the roof. After a while, new vents would need to be fixed. The common problems that can lead to roof vent leakage are:
- The effect of corrosion around the vent pipe allows rainwater to accumulate and drip to the house.
- The fastening nails are loose exposing, a hole.
- Clean the gutters
Gutters collect the water on the roof but often carry lots of other stuff. Clogged drains accumulate leaves, twigs, birds’ nests and droppings, and particles from broken shingles. They are mostly the reason behind leaking roofs. This kind of waste can cause the understructure to rot. They block the flow of water down the drain and roof ventilation. The obstructing material also exerts pressure on the gutter, causing it to sag. If this continues for a long time, the plywood underlying can start rotting.
Take away
Do not be in a hurry to write off that roof because of its age. Instead, consider doing minor repairs if you can handle the challenge. Alternatively, seek professional assistance from a roofing contractor.