The most effective way to identify roof repair issues is to perform a visual inspection. This can be done from the ground or a safe ladder.
Examine shingles for tears and loss of protective granule coating. Also check the flashing around chimneys, vents and dormers for cracks or leaks. Contact Roof Company Baton Rouge for professional help.
The extent of damage determines whether repairs or replacement is the best course. The cost of repairs is generally less than that of replacing a roof.
When it comes to roof repair, shingles are the first line of defense. A shingle that is damaged can cause leaks and subsequent damage to other parts of the home, so it is important to address any problems as quickly as possible.
In many cases, a homeowner can do simple shingle repairs without the help of a professional. However, the process is more complex if the roof has a steep pitch or is over two stories high. To be safe, it is best to have a professional handle this type of work.
Visual clues are the first indication that your shingles require attention. Cracking, discoloration and bald spots are signs of deterioration. Additionally, shingles that are curling up or falling off the roof may indicate they need replacement. Leaks are also a clear sign that your shingles need repair, as water can easily get into the attic and other parts of the house if left untreated.
Depending on where you live, your roof is subjected to all sorts of weather conditions that can damage shingles. Hail, wind and rain can all affect shingles, and even the sun’s heat can cause them to become brittle over time. Additionally, critters scurrying across the roof can cause damage to the shingles. A poorly ventilated attic can lead to excessive heat that causes the shingles to curl up, and overhanging tree branches may fall and leave debris on the shingle surface.
Damaged shingles can be repaired with roofing sealant. Squeeze a generous amount of the sealant under the cracked or torn shingle and spread it across the area to form a thick bead along the shingle surface. Gently press down on the shingle and allow it to dry for 24 hours before applying pressure to the shingle again.
If you need to replace a shingle, it is important to choose one that matches the color of the existing shingles. It is also a good idea to purchase a few extra shingles to have on hand, in case you need to make additional repairs. Before attempting to replace the shingle, carefully pry up any shingles that are overlapping it and place them in a safe spot. Then, use a pry bar to loosen the nails holding the shingle in place and pull it up and away from the roof.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is a crucial component of your roof. It protects areas where the roof meets different structures, such as vents, chimneys, dormers and skylights. It’s also installed where the roof slopes meet, and it helps direct rainwater into the gutter. Damaged or improperly installed flashing is a common cause of leaks. Leaks can lead to water stains and mold on interior ceilings, rotted framing and sheathing, and lower energy efficiency. It’s important to identify and repair any flashing problems before they worsen.
Flashing damage can occur due to a variety of factors, including weather, climate and age. Exposure to the elements causes flashing to expand and contract, which can create wrinkles in the material. The constant contractions and expansions also weaken the metal and can cause it to crack or break.
Other types of flashing damage include rust and corrosion, looseness or gaps, and improper installation. A professional roofer will inspect the flashing, remove any old caulking or roofing cement, and cut new flashing to size before installing it. They’ll then use a caulking gun to apply a bead of roofing sealant or tar around the repaired area to create a watertight seal.
If your roof has experienced significant storm damage, a thorough inspection is recommended by a professional. In addition to identifying potential damage, the professional can advise on whether or not a roof replacement is necessary.
Attempting to repair or replace flashing on your own can be dangerous and expensive. You should only hire a licensed, professional roofer for this type of work. Professional roofers are skilled at safely and accurately removing shingles to expose damaged flashing and replacing it properly. They can also help you choose the best roof materials for your specific needs and can complete all of the necessary steps to ensure a watertight, durable roof.
Ideally, you should inspect your roof for flashing damage on a regular basis. This will help you spot problems before they become serious, saving you time and money in the long run. A professional roofer can also evaluate your roof for other signs of wear and tear, such as sagging or rotting shingles or mold and water stains on the ceiling. By catching and repairing these issues early, you can save money on costly repairs and protect your home’s value and quality of life.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
BUR roofing is a long-standing and trusted solution for flat or low-slope roofs. Its layered construction and redundancy make it an ideal choice for commercial and industrial facilities that require heavy-duty protection. While it may be more expensive than some other roof systems, its durability means fewer repairs and replacements over time.
The layers of a BUR system help protect against environmental elements like rain, snow, hail, and UV rays. With proper maintenance, a BUR roof can last for 20 to 30 years or more. The insulation in the layers also contributes to energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling costs.
A typical BUR roof consists of several layers, including a base sheet that installs beneath the membrane and serves as a barrier against hot asphalt or certain adhesives. An SBS or APP membrane is then placed over the base sheet, followed by a cap sheet. The cap sheets are available in a variety of options, such as reflective for reduced glare and solar energy absorption.
Depending on the material, the cap sheet may also contain a blend of elastomers and fillers for added strength. The elastomers and fillers can also serve as a water barrier, protecting the base sheet from weathering and promoting a durable seal. A gravel ballast layer can also be added to improve durability, providing resistance against impact and the weight of snow and other debris.
Like any other type of roofing, a BUR roof requires regular inspections and maintenance to prevent damage and extend its lifespan. A typical routine includes a visual inspection of the entire roof, examining gutters and drains for proper functioning, checking water flow around protruding elements, immediately addressing any problems, pruning trees overhanging the building, removing unwanted vegetation, meticulous examination of fasteners and joints, and, if necessary, consulting a professional about more complex issues.
While the multiple layers of a BUR roof provide robust protection, they can be compromised by cracking or penetration. If this happens, water will leak into the building and cause damage within. A professional roofing company will be able to repair the issue with ease.
Leaks
Leaks aren’t fun for homeowners because they damage ceilings, walls and even furniture. They also cause wood framing to rot, and can compromise the overall integrity of your home. It’s crucial to catch leaks early on so that they can be repaired. But the most important step is identifying the source of the leak. There are a variety of things that can lead to leaks, including damaged shingles or flashing, clogged gutters and even old age.
The most obvious sign of a roof leak is water dripping from the ceiling or down the walls. If you spot a wet patch on the ceiling, it’s imperative that you call for repairs right away. If the leaking continues, you may need to install a temporary patch until a professional can get there.
Another common culprit of roof leaks is a clogged gutter in the valley. A valley is where two sloping parts of the roof meet, and the gutter is installed there to direct rainwater from one part of the roof to the other. If the gutter becomes clogged, it can cause water to seep underneath the shingles and into the house.
You can check for a clogged gutter by looking at the inside of your attic, or by checking your home’s exterior walls for water spots. Another sign of a roof leak is a sagging bulge on the ceiling or wall. A sagging bulge will appear wet, and may also have an unpleasant odor. If the bulge is still wet, it’s best to poke a hole in the area with a screwdriver and put a bucket under the drip.
Leaks can also occur where pipes protrude from the roof, especially if the pipe is metal or has a rubber seal. Cracks in the rubber around these pipes can allow water to infiltrate the home, and a leak can be difficult to detect until it appears on the ceiling. If you notice a leak, have a professional inspect the entire roof for any damage that could be causing it. Then they can fix the leak and prevent further issues in the future.