A roof is crucial to the overall integrity of a home, protecting it from sun, wind, rain and snow. Damaged roofs can cause leaks, pest infestation, mold and mildew, higher energy bills and affect resale value.
Visually examine shingles, gutters and roof edges and the flashing around chimneys and dormers. A common leak source is loose or missing flashing. Replace the flashing carefully and apply a bead of roof sealant to nail heads. Contact Roof Repair Erie PA to learn more.
A roof’s shingles are a critical component that protects the structure and everything inside it from water leaks. Even a small crack or missing shingle can accelerate the need for costly reroofing. Regular visual inspections and prompt repairs can extend the life of a shingle roof and keep water out.
To replace a missing shingle, first look to see if any part of the shingle is still attached at its base, then obtain a bundle of three-tab shingles that are as close as possible in color and pattern to the current ones. Set aside one shingle from the bundle for a “repair shingle,” and use it to fill in the gap where the damaged shingle used to be. Lay a bead of roof sealant (which costs between $10 and $20 at home improvement stores) along the glue strip at the base of the replacement shingle, then firmly press it onto the existing shingle below it.
If the shingle is cracked but not torn, apply a thick bead of roof sealant under the crack, then smooth it with a putty knife. Collect some shingle granules and sprinkle them over the wet sealant to camouflage the repair.
Inspect the rest of the shingle roof and make sure that all shingles are securely nailed down. If any shingles are loose, re-nail them with roofing nails. It’s also a good idea to inspect the roof for any damaged or deteriorated underlayment and replace it as necessary.
Before you start the repairs, make sure that you have all the necessary tools for the job, including a sturdy ladder, safety harness, gloves, goggles, and non-slip footwear. A hammer with a claw for removing shingles and a utility knife for cutting shingle material to size are essential tools, as are a pry bar and a pair of roofing shears. You will also need a tool belt to keep all your tools within reach.
If you are not comfortable working on a roof, hire a professional to perform the repairs for you. It’s also a good idea for homeowners to cover their belongings in the attic and upper floors with old sheets or tarps to protect them from falling debris. And make sure to keep pets and children away from the work area for their own safety and peace of mind.
Flashing
Flashing is a thin layer of metal that redirects water away from places where the roof meets vertical surfaces like walls or chimneys. It’s also used to prevent moisture from entering the crevices of roof protrusions such as vents and skylights. Flashing is a crucial component of any roofing system and should be regularly inspected for signs of wear. Damaged flashing can allow moisture to infiltrate the roof, causing wood rot and other problems.
The most common type of flashing is copper, but it can be made of aluminum or galvanized steel as well. It is usually installed at the low points where two roof slopes meet (called valleys), around protrusions like chimneys, skylights, and bathroom/kitchen vents, as well as around the edges of the roof and eaves.
There are many types of flashing, each with a specific function. For example, pipe flashing, which is commonly called a “pipe boot,” is installed over plumbing vents to prevent water intrusion. It consists of a square piece of metal with a central opening that fits over the vent pipe or a rubber compression fitting for PVC pipes. A piece of flashing is then installed underneath the shingles, with another piece on top to create a seal.
Typically, the first step in installing flashing is to lay down the underlayment and the shingle course. Once the shingle course is in place, the flashing is placed, with a piece of the flashing on each side of the roof to overlap the shingles by 20 centimeters. It is then nailed in place, with the nail heads covered with roofing cement or other sealant to ensure that moisture doesn’t penetrate through the seams.
Regularly inspecting your flashing and replacing it when needed will ensure that your roof stays watertight. If you notice any signs of deterioration, be sure to contact a professional roof repair company as soon as possible to avoid serious damage. The longer you wait, the more expensive a roof repair will be. In addition, a leaky roof will eventually rot the wood sheathing, underlayment, and trusses, reducing its lifespan.
Gutters
Gutters are an important part of a roof system. They direct rainwater away from the home’s exterior, preventing water damage and soil erosion. They consist of channels attached to the roof edges, downspouts for water redirection and often a drainage system to further protect the basement and foundation. Without gutters, rainwater would collect on the roof’s surface and eventually rot, deteriorate or mold the shingles, fascia and soffit. It could also seep through the windows and into the walls, causing moisture damage. Gutters also prevent the soil beneath a house from being saturated, a common cause of foundation or basement problems.
There are three main types of gutters. Half-round gutters are the most popular choice, as they’re affordable and versatile. However, they can become clogged with debris and are harder to clean than square gutters. Square gutters have fewer seams, so they’re more durable and look more stylish, although they can be more expensive than half-round gutters. K-Style gutters are designed to look like crown molding and are more aesthetically appealing than other gutter types, although they may be difficult to clean.
Leaky gutters are often caused by clogged or loose downspouts, so it’s important to regularly clean and maintain your gutter system. You can also install gutter guards to prevent the buildup of debris and reduce the need for regular cleaning.
If you notice leaks in your gutter system, you should use a butyl rubber caulking compound to repair them. This type of caulk stays flexible in cold and hot weather, doesn’t shrink while curing and works well on both aluminum and PVC gutter systems.
Gutters are an integral part of your roof, so it’s important to maintain them properly. Keep in mind that your homeowners’ insurance should cover any damage caused by the neglect or improper maintenance of your gutters, soffits and fascia. If you’re unsure of how to clean or repair your gutters, contact a professional roofing contractor for assistance. A skilled roofer will have the knowledge and tools to get the job done right. He or she will also be able to recommend the best products for your roof and climate.
Soffit
The soffit is a piece of wood or aluminum affixed underneath the fascia to help provide protection and ventilation. While most homeowners don’t spend much time looking at their soffits, the fact is they are one of the most important parts of your roof structure.
Soffits are designed to protect and ventilate the attic space of your home by preventing water, pests, and moisture from entering through the roofline. They also play an important role in keeping warm air inside during the winter and preventing hot air from building up in the attic.
Without adequate ventilation, a home can become damp and infested with mold or mildew, creating an unhealthy living environment. Moisture infiltration can cause the wood soffit to rot and the metal soffit to rust. It can also lead to other serious problems such as leaking roofs, water damage to the walls and ceiling of your home, and even structural damage.
Proper soffit ventilation can prevent moisture, mold, and mildew by allowing the attic to cool off in the summer. In addition, soffit vents can also help reduce energy bills by lowering your cooling costs.
When your soffit needs repair, the signs are often obvious. Look for rotting or decaying wood, discoloration, cracks and holes, or gaps in the structure. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to repair them immediately to avoid more costly repairs in the future.
In some cases, the soffit may need to be replaced completely. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper installation and damage from storms or animals. In these cases, it’s a good idea to hire professional roofers to make the necessary repairs or replace the entire soffit.
Fascia is an exposed board that connects to the ends of the roof rafters or trusses and supports the eavestrough and gutter systems. It provides a finished appearance to the house’s exterior and helps to prevent animals from invading the attic. Fascia is often made from a durable material such as Plywood, Hardieboard, or Fiber Cement Board. It can also be built from a more rustic material such as cedar or natural wood boards.