Your roof is the protector of everything inside your home. If it gets damaged, it can cause problems throughout the entire structure.
Many types of damage require a simple repair, but others need to be addressed right away. Here are some early warning signs to look out for. The longer you wait to call a pro, the worse the damage may become. Contact Columbus Roof Repair now!
If you have a shingle roof, it’s important to have any damage repaired quickly. Missing or loose shingles can leave your home susceptible to water leaks. Other signs of shingle damage include granule piles on the ground, cracking and curling of the shingles, and buckling or blistering. If left unchecked, these problems will only worsen and could lead to a more extensive repair project.
A professional roofer will use a variety of tools to repair or replace your shingles. These may include a pry bar, caulk gun and roofing cement. They will also want to replace any underlayment that is damaged. Ideally, the old underlayment will be removed and replaced with a new sheet of peel-and-stick underlayment (also known as flashing). This will protect against water penetration from the edges of the shingle.
The first step in repairing a damaged shingle is to locate the source of the problem. This can be difficult, as the damage may be spread out over a large area. To find the source, a contractor will look for water stains on your ceiling or walls. They will then remove the shingles over the area and inspect the underlayment for signs of leakage.
Once the leaking shingle has been found, the contractor will remove it and the nails holding it in place. This will be easier if the shingle is cool, as the asphalt sealant will be more easily sheared with a flat pry bar. Once the nail holes have been filled with caulk, the replacement shingle can be installed. The contractor will then re-nail the overlying shingles, making sure to match the pitch and style of the original shingle.
For more serious shingle damage, the roofer will apply a layer of roofing cement to the back of the new shingle and press it firmly in place. They will then add additional roofing granules to finish the job. If the shingle is too brittle, however, it will need to be replaced entirely. While this is a more expensive option, it will increase the lifespan of your shingle roof and protect against future issues.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs account for a significant portion of the roofing systems in homes and buildings across the country. While these roofs offer durability, longevity and aesthetic appeal, they can be susceptible to issues that are specific to their design. Thankfully, with the help of knowledgeable contractors, a regular inspection schedule, appropriate maintenance, and energy-efficient solutions, these roofs can provide their owners and tenants with dependable protection, comfort, and functionality for years to come.
Metal roofing materials can be prone to corrosion, especially galvanized steel and aluminum. These roofs must be treated with a protective coating to prevent rust and the development of holes. A poorly coated or installed metal roof can experience leaks, which can cause damage to the interior walls, insulation, woodwork, doors and windows. Locating and repairing these leaks quickly is vital for avoiding permanent damage and to minimize the impact on occupants.
Another common issue with metal roofs is the development of leaks in the flashing around the chimney, pipes and vents. These leaks are often caused by improper installation of these components or by deteriorating sealants. This type of problem is easily corrected by removing the existing rumble button, cleaning the area and applying new caulk.
A metal roof may also be prone to damage from hail and falling tree branches. Softer metals such as aluminum and copper can dent when hit by a large hailstorm or from the weight of a fallen branch. These dents are often difficult to repair because of their size, but this damage is not always a problem if the roof is inspected and repaired on a regular basis.
Gutters
Gutters play a vital role in keeping your roof structurally sound. They catch the rainwater that falls from your shingles, channeling it into downspouts and away from your home’s foundation. Without gutters, the water would likely collect on your roof and weaken the shingles, soffit and fascia over time. Gutters also keep debris from building up on your roof and causing rot, mold and other serious problems.
In addition to catching and diverting water, well-functioning gutters prevent erosion of soil around your house’s foundation. Without a gutter system, this erosion can lead to cracks in your foundation and may even undermine your home’s structural integrity. Gutters also protect your foundation from floodwater, which could enter through basement windows and crack your walls.
Your gutters are prone to damage from both age and wear and tear, but with proper care they can last 20 years or more. One of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your gutters is to regularly clean them. This is especially important in fall when wet leaves can stick to the sides of the gutters and clog downspouts. Using a garden hose to spray off the gutters is easy, but for more difficult spots you may need to use a ladder and a broom.
Gutter leaks typically originate at rusty spots or from worn seams that open up over time due to expansion and contraction. These leaks can be repaired with roof and gutter repair tape, which is available at home centers and hardware stores. This type of tape is a polyurethane sealant that dries flexible and is resistant to moisture, weather and corrosion. Before you apply the tape, scrape out as much of the old tar or caulk as possible and wire-brush the surface to ensure a smooth, clean bond.
If the leak is at a joint, use a utility knife to remove any caulk remaining on either side of the joint. Wipe down the area, then apply the tape over the gap. Work the tape into curves and corners, and push down on it to flatten wrinkles and bubbles (Photo 2). For a stronger repair, you can use Loctite PL Roof and Flashing Polyurethane Sealant. This is a commercial-grade sealant designed for sealing exterior gaps and joints, and it stays flexible after application, which is helpful when working with metal gutters.
Flashing
Flashing is a type of sheet metal that protects joints and seams where a roof meets walls, chimneys, vents, skylights, or other structures. It is usually made of a galvanized steel, or another material that can resist moisture and other weather conditions. Flashing can be either exposed or concealed, depending on where it is installed. Exposed flashing is typically visible to the naked eye, while concealed flashing is covered by shingles or other roofing materials.
Roof leaks can occur when flashing is not properly mounted, or if it becomes loose or damaged. Periodically inspecting your roof and checking flashing for signs of damage can help prevent these problems. If a problem occurs, it’s important to have it repaired right away to avoid extensive damage to your home and property.
To inspect your roof for signs of flashing issues, you’ll need to get up in the attic or crawlspace, and take a good look around. Take a few high-resolution pictures with your smartphone, and make note of any areas where water seems to be entering your house. You’ll also want to check the areas where the flashing is, and look for any gaps or breaks in the flashing.
There are many different types of flashing, and each is designed for a specific purpose. The most common flashing is the base flashing, which is installed where a flat roof meets a vertical protrusion. Other types of flashing include:
Step flashing is bent and shaped to fit where a wall interruption is located on a roof, such as with dormer windows. Wall flashing is often paired with sill flashing, which is installed under windows and doors to prevent water ingress, or to direct water that has already entered the structure back outside. Other flashing types include:
Flashing is a critical part of the roofing system, and it’s very easy to install and repair. It helps prevent water leaks that can cause rot, mold, mildew, and other damage to the building and its contents. A quick seal with roof sealant can fix a small hole or crack, but flashing prevents water from penetrating the entire roof and causing serious problems.