Roofs will develop problems over time, like leakages and cracks. These damages usually occur due to having some missing shingles or shakes, unattended care, or just due to natural causes. Even in a short period, small roof leaks can cause aggravating problems like mold, rotted sheathing and framing, risky insulation and ruined ceilings.
So in order to avoid spending too much money caused by unattended leaks, here are some tips that can help you in fixing the problem before it becomes into a bigger inconvenience.
LOCATING ROOF LEAKS
Typically, the very first thing to do before performing a repair on your leaking roof is to know where the leak is coming from. Usually, leaks occur in areas that are penetrated since it is unlikely for a leak to develop in areas that are well covered and closed. You can search for penetrations that already exist in your home’s features such as roof vents, plumbing, dormers, chimney or anything that can possibly have literally had already created a hole on your roof. Start your way from these areas, and trace them through by observing things such as stains, molds or marks.
When inspecting the leak, you should also take note of essential home elements such as wirings or power lines that can potentially be harmful to your well being if overlooked. Aside from that, if you choose to repair the leak by yourself, you should also be equipped with proper equipment such as rubber boots, safety ropes and reinforced bolts for anchoring, and safe ladders.
REPAIRING A HOLE
If the leak is caused by a hole, be it small or not, you usually can make use of a 12”x12” galvanized sheet, and utilize it in a way that you cover the hole with it. It might be essential for you to use one or more umbrella nails to make sure that the sheet will stay in place to prevent any water from creeping inside and causing another leak. Other alternative materials can also be used as a substitute to cover the leak.
REPAIRING A FLAT ROOF
Flat roofs, if compared to other types of roofs, commonly have different coverings which makes the process of repairing it a little bit more tricky and complicated. To do this, you will most likely have to make use of patching and covering methods whenever you see that the leak is caused by a hole. There are a lot of materials and items in the market that are suitable and can very much help you in making sure that the leak is well covered and repaired.
REPLACING SHINGLES AND SHAKES
To make sure that your house is free from any leak, it would be advisable that you schedule an inspection to see if there are any roof problems that need to be attended. If during the inspection you see that there are noticeable shingles that need to be repaired or replaced, then schedule an appointment with a professional.
