The roof is the most crucial component of a building that shields the structure and its occupants from harsh external factors, such as weather, storms, temperature, etc. Amid all this protection, it is highly likely that the roof sustains damage from time to time that needs to be repaired.
If you are a DIY enthusiast and want to repair your roof by yourself, then our guide is for you. We have discussed the possible causes of roof damages, the importance of timely roof repairs and how to repair your roof by yourself. We have also provided some additional tips on how to maintain your roof to avoid damage in the first place.
Common Causes of Roof Damages
The following are the common factors that can damage your roof:
- Algae damage
- UV light damage
- Wind damage
- Fire damage
- Storm damage
- Fallen trees or debris
- Poor design and installation
- Impact damage
- Ice dams damage
- Animal damage
Why Roof Repairs are Important?
Roof is the most exposed component of a structure which makes it susceptible to sustain damage from external biotic and abiotic factors. However, carrying out prompt repairs is imperative as the damage may spread and cause structural and material damage to the property. For example, if the water penetrates through the roof into the timber, it can compromise its structural integrity, attract pests and encourage mold growth, which will require more expensive repair work.
That is why it is essential to carry out immediate repairs to restore the protective shield of your house and keep the repair and maintenance costs to a minimum.
How to Repair Your Roof? – 5 Easy Steps
Checklist for Tools and Equipment
- Handbrake
- Tin snips
- Chalk box
- Roofing hammer
- Pry bar
- Speed square
- Utility knife
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Caulk gun
- Nail puller
- Roofing nails
- Shears
Materials that You Need
- Roofing sealant
- Shingles
- Aluminum coil stock
Step 1. Assess the Damage and Devise the Required Solutions
The first step is to inspect the whole property to locate and identify any structural damage caused due to broken shingles. You may find visible structural damages and water leaks that may have spread through the roof or ceiling. We recommend you inspect both internal and external areas thoroughly to identify every visible and non-visible damage.
Once you have identified the nature and extent of the damage, you can devise a strategy and list all the materials and equipment that you are going to need to carry out the repair work.
Step 2. Remove the Broken Shingle and Debris
Now is the time to start your repairs. First of all, you must take all the safety measures to ensure a safe workspace around you. After that, you should remove the broken shingles and expose the structural damage to your roof so that you can execute the required repairs. You should also clean the roof of any debris, stray nails or any other material that can cause damage or injury to you.
Step 3. Carry Out the Required Structural Repairs
Once you have a clean and safe workspace, you can carry out structural repairs to your roof, ceiling or any other area where the damage has spread. Keep in mind that only use top-quality materials to ensure the longevity of your repair works.
Step 4. Install New Roof Shingles
After executing the repairs, you can install the new roof shingles and restore the aesthetics of your roof. Make sure that you have all the tools and required materials to carry out a long-lasting and seamless shingle installation. Here are some useful tips to remember:
- Clean the surface before installing new shingles.
- Align the new shingles properly.
- Apply sealant before placing the shingle.
- Nail the shingle down along the nail strip.
Step 5. Ask for the Professional Help
Please remember that the roof is the most exposed element of any structure. That is why executing efficient and durable roof repairs is crucial. If you feel that the repair job is too big or the damages are too complex for you to handle, you must seek professional help to ensure that the repair job is done accurately and as per standards.
Why Hire Professionals for Roof Repairs?
If the damage to the roof has gone beyond mere shingles, we recommend hiring professional roofers to ensure a thorough and efficient repair job. Professional roofers are fully equipped with the required materials and tools and can locate and eradicate any structural damage that is caused due to broken shingles.
Moreover, hiring professional roofers also provides peace of mind and relaxation, knowing that the job is done efficiently and will last a long time.
Roof Maintenance Tips to Prevent Repairs
Here are some useful roof maintenance tips that can reduce your repair costs:
- Inspect the ceiling and attic regularly for moisture penetration and damages.
- Check your roof regularly for minor defects that can become significant in future.
- Keep the gutters clear to avoid water leakage and seepage to the roof decks.
- Clear out the debris and leaves from your roof on a regular basis.
- Get rid of the ice dams in winter to prevent snow from running into gutters.
- Trim the trees that are close to your roof and can cause damage.
- Remove algae, moss and lichen from the roof regularly.
- Apply sealants and coatings to protect your roof from harsh weather.