Regular inspections can help spot problems early, preventing more extensive damage and costly repairs. Look for shingle damage, leaks and moss growth. Also, check for deteriorating flashing around chimneys and skylights and a sagging roofline that indicates structural issues.
If a leak is detected, the roofer will soak the general area of the stain on the ceiling and look for water-stained insulation or rot. This will help them locate the source of the problem. Contact Roof Repair Murfreesboro TN for professional help.
If a strong wind blows a few shingles off the roof, it’s best to replace them promptly to prevent water damage. You should also check the roof after every storm to spot new damaged areas. Depending on the extent of the damage and your comfort with tackling it yourself, you may want to hire a professional.
If you have a small area of damaged shingles that don’t require a full replacement, you can repair them yourself with roofing cement and a ladder. Position your ladder in a safe location and carefully climb to the site of the damaged shingle. Sliding a pry bar underneath, lift it upward to expose the row of nails that hold it in place. Remove the nails using the curved end of your pry bar. You can then slide the new shingle into place. Before you do, though, apply some roofing cement to the back of the shingle and press it against the existing shingles surrounding it.
Cracking in shingles is another sign of wear and tear. Often the result of wind damage, the cracks can lead to leaks in your home. While isolated cracks aren’t cause for alarm, widespread cracking suggests it’s time to consider a full roof replacement.
Other signs of shingle damage include discoloration and bruising. If a shingle has been exposed to a great deal of heat, it can lose its granules and become bruised or discolored. Blistering is an even more serious problem and can allow moisture to seep into your home.
Finally, shingles can become warped over time, taking on a concave or cupped shape. If this happens, it can cause leaks and make it difficult to properly waterproof your roof.
Leaks
Water leaks are the telltale sign that there is a bigger roofing issue to address. If left unaddressed, the leak can cause damage to walls and ceilings as well as lead to mold and mildew growth that can negatively impact indoor air quality and structural integrity.
The signs of a roof leak include water stains on the ceiling, sagging bulges in the ceiling, and wet or damp walls. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to move any furniture or other items away from the affected area and cover them with tarps until the repair can be completed.
Leaks can be caused by a number of factors including aging, missing shingles, improper flashing installation, clogged gutters, chimney damage and more. Regular maintenance, inspections and repairs can help prevent leaks.
The most common type of leak occurs from skylights that are not properly sealed. This is a very common problem that can be easily addressed with the use of a caulking gun and silicone sealant. After cleaning the leaky spot, the sealant is applied to both sides of the gap and allowed to dry thoroughly. Then, the caulk is pressed firmly into place and a layer of roofing cement is applied to ensure it holds.
Another common leak point is around vents that are not properly installed or damaged. These can also be repaired with the same method as a hole in shingle. Carefully clean the area and remove any debris. Then, a patch of shingle or roof flashing is cut out and placed over the hole. Finally, a generous layer of roofing cement is applied to seal the patch and protect against future leaks.
Lastly, leaks in roof valleys can be a result of aging or poor roof ventilation. If left untreated, these issues can lead to extensive roof damage and expensive repairs. The best way to avoid this is by having a professional examine the condition of your roof regularly and make any necessary repairs. If you’re interested in a roof inspection and possible repairs, contact the team at Boelter is Better today!
Partial Repairs
If you find yourself with some shingle damage that doesn’t require replacement or full-scale repair, but your roof is otherwise structurally sound, then your roofer may recommend partial repairs instead of a total replacement. Partial repairs can help keep your home safe, secure and a desirable place to live until you are ready for more extensive work.
Partial repairs can address localized damage from things like tree limbs, severe weather, or smaller areas of wear and tear that don’t impact the overall integrity of your roof structure or appearance. This type of repair is also often less expensive and may be covered by your homeowners’ insurance policy.
It is crucial to make regular roof inspections to prevent further damage and leaks. Look for shingles that are missing, cracked, or buckling. Examine flashing around chimneys, vents and other features to ensure that it’s intact. Make sure that gutters are free of debris and that water can flow freely. Look at the ventilation in your attic, as proper airflow is essential for preventing moisture buildup that can damage roofing materials over time.
Another important thing to do is to remove debris from the roof regularly. This includes leaves, branches and other items that could puncture the rubber membrane. It’s a good idea to trim any overhanging trees, as well. This can prevent shingle damage, as well as reduce the risk of falling branches during severe storms.
If you do notice a leak, try to catch it before it gets out of control. This may mean putting up a tarp or some other temporary solution to keep the water out until you can get your permanent repair done.
If you do have to use a tarp, be sure that it covers the entire area of the affected roof and extends up to the ridgeline to prevent moisture from seeping in underneath. If possible, you should do this on a dry day. Once you have the leak contained, it’s a good idea to hire a professional for permanent repairs so that the problem doesn’t grow and cause other issues.
Complete Replacement
The asphalt layer of shingles is covered with tiny stone granules that enhance appearance and protect the asphalt from weathering. Over time, granule loss accelerates shingle damage and exposes the fiberglass intermat beneath. This leaves the roof vulnerable to leaks and water infiltration. Roofers replace the damaged shingles and apply roofing cement around the edges of the shingles and in any gaps to seal them and prevent water intrusion. The professionals also inspect the roof structure to identify and address any underlying issues.
Whenever possible, roof repair is more cost-effective than full replacement. Professionals have the equipment and training to do the job safely, quickly and correctly.
