A leaky roof is not only frustrating, but it can also damage your furniture and other valuables. If the leaking is minor, it can be repaired with ease, but major leaking will usually require the assistance of a roofer such as Raleigh Roofing. It is first important to learn how to identify the problem, and understand how repairs are made to various roofing types such as shingle, flat or wooden roofs. Should you choose to make the repairs yourself, be sure to work on a day when the roof is dry, to avoid any accidents.
Repairing Shingles
To stop leakage which is coming through the shingles, you will first want to check the area above the spot where the water is coming in. The damage will be simple to find on a roof that is flat, but sometimes leakage occurs in areas which are separate from the spot where the damage is present. If your home has an attic, use a flashlight to locate water stains, as well as mould or black spots.
Another tactic for finding the leaking spots is to get on the roof, and use a hose to run water along it. You’ll need another person inside the home who can watch the ceiling to see exactly where the water is coming in. Watch for shingles that are curled up, broken or missing near the location of the leak. Roof tacks which are exposed are another common cause of leaking. Shingles that are curled back will need to be straightened out, and this is best done by applying roof cement near the edges which are exposed. Sometimes damaged shingles must be replaced completely.
Roll Roofing is Also Effective
Prior to using this technique, you will need to look for cracks or other signs of damage on the roof. When you find the cracks or blisters, you will need to repair them by mending. To do this, a utility knife must be used to cut a line in the centre of the blister. At the same time, you must avoid cutting too deep or you’ll damage the substrate which is beneath it.
Next, you must remove any liquid or soap that is within the blister. It is important for the area to be as dry as possible. Next you will need to place a large amount of roofing cement within the blister, and press down on it.
Repairing Damaged Shakes
Shakes which are damaged will first need to be split by a chisel and hammer. Next, you will slip the chisel beneath the shake and take out the pieces. After this, get a hacksaw and use it to remove the ends of any nails that you’re unable to pry out. If you’re unable to saw the nails without damaging the shakes which are good, just avoid the nails. Use your saw to cut a replacement shake. It should be about 9.5mm less than the original shake. Now take the new shake and put it in place and then use the hammer to push it in. You should need no more than two roofing nails which are galvanised. Now use a nail set to lock the nails in position, and seal them with a caulking compound.
These are just a few of the basic techniques you can use to repair a leaky roof. Even these methods may be beyond the skillset of many homeowners, and if you don’t have the time or desire to fix the leakage yourself, it is better to call a specialist who will assist you.