The roof is one of the most important parts of a home. It needs to be able to withstand high winds, heat and rain.
If it can’t, the structure of the house could be at risk. That’s why it’s a good idea to do a thorough roof inspection before you buy a house. Visit Website to learn more.
Built-up roofing (BUR) is a popular choice for commercial roofing, providing robust protection and a long lifespan. The multiple layers of this roofing system make it more durable and resistant to weather and physical damage than single-ply roofs, and can help to keep the building insulated, which reduces energy costs.
However, like all roofs, BUR requires some maintenance to ensure the integrity of the roof and the longevity of its life. It is important to inspect the BUR roof on a regular basis, especially after strong storms or high winds. This will allow you to catch small issues that may become bigger problems over time.
Typical maintenance for a BUR roof includes replacing damaged insulation, removing fallen debris and repairing cracks or rips in the membrane. BUR roofs are also prone to blistering, which is caused by trapped air or moisture that can lead to leaks and other roof problems. It is important to repair these roofs in a timely manner to prevent them from becoming more serious and expensive.
While the initial cost of a BUR roof may be higher than some alternatives, it offers many benefits that can help to offset the initial investment. The durability of this roofing system means that it will need fewer repairs and replacements over its lifetime, saving significant amounts of money. Additionally, the reflective coatings on a BUR roof can help to cut energy costs by reducing the amount of heat that is absorbed by the building.
Another benefit of a BUR roof is that it provides excellent fire resistance, which can protect occupants and inventory from the consequences of a fire. Additionally, a BUR roof can be designed with a gravel surface that is effective in preventing water penetration, making it a good option for areas that require a high degree of waterproofing.
If you have a smooth BUR roof that is leaking, a spray foam roof coating system can be an affordable and effective repair solution. This type of roof coating can be installed in a variety of ways, including over the top of existing granules.
Repairing Shingles
The shingles on your roof act as the first line of defense against rainfall. As such, they can be susceptible to damage from harsh weather conditions and natural aging processes. Damaged or missing shingles allow water to seep into the home, which can cause mold growth and structural damage. Luckily, prompt repair of shingle damage can prevent these issues and help extend the lifespan of your roof.
Regular inspections of your shingles can help spot early signs of damage, such as loose shingles or shingle gaps and cracks. You can make these repairs yourself, or a roofing professional can provide the expertise and experience needed to ensure the job is done right.
When repairing your roof, you’ll need the following:
A pry bar, work gloves, a ladder, tarps, and a bucket for any nails or shingle pieces you may drop during the repair process. It’s also important to ensure that the weather is suitable for climbing onto your roof, as the temperature and wind can affect the sealant bond between shingles.
Begin by locating the damaged shingle. Then, slip the pry bar under the shingle directly above it and lift it until you can see the nails holding each shingle. Remove the nails, and then pull out the damaged shingle.
Next, install the new shingle by sliding it into the gap left by the damaged one. After that, use a putty knife to spread some roof sealant over the base of the shingle and around each nail head to prevent water from seeping underneath the shingle and causing leaks or mold growth. Finally, apply a generous amount of granules over the sealant to camouflage the repair.
Patching a small area of your roof with new shingles is an affordable way to fix a single piece of damage. However, it might not be the best solution if you’re in need of more extensive repairs, such as those that would result from a full replacement. This is because repairing isolated damages might not address any underlying problems that could lead to further issues down the road.
Repairing Flashing
Flashing is a thin strip of metal that is installed around vulnerable spots on your roof such as chimneys, vent pipes, skylights and valleys where two sloped roof planes meet. It is designed to prevent water leaks by sealing the gap. Flashing is commonly made of galvanized steel but can also be copper, lead or other metals. A professional roofing contractor will know the best flashing material for each type of roof.
It’s important to inspect your flashing regularly to look for damage and signs of wear and tear. It should be replaced or repaired in a timely manner to ensure it is protected from rain and other weather elements.
The most common reason for damaged roof flashing is age and weathering. This happens when the metal corrodes or rusts due to prolonged exposure to extreme weather conditions. Poor installation or maintenance can also cause problems with flashing, such as gaps, loose sections and improper seals.
If you notice a problem with your roof flashing, it is vital to call a professional to repair it immediately. They will have the proper equipment and safety skills to access difficult-to-reach areas of your roof and fix the flashing in a safe manner. If you attempt to fix the flashing yourself, it could lead to further leaks and damage to your roof and home.
A roof repair expert will inspect your flashing for any signs of damage and determine whether it is necessary to replace it or if a simple repair will suffice. They will also be able to tell if there is additional water damage that needs to be addressed.
If the flashing is badly damaged, it may be better to have it completely replaced than to try to fix it. This is a job that should be left to the professionals, as it is dangerous and requires climbing on the roof and removing shingles to get to the flashing. It is easy to accidentally damage the shingles when trying to do this, so it is always best to leave this type of repair to the experts.
Repairing Gutters
Gutters are essential for directing rainwater away from your home, helping to prevent water damage to siding, fascia boards, and foundations. Like any other part of your roof, gutters require routine care and maintenance in order to function properly. This includes regular cleaning, inspections, and repairs.
Leaking gutters may cause serious interior damage and should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent worsening issues. If you’ve noticed puddles of water around the house or a musty smell in the attic, leaking gutters could be to blame.
Gutter leaks often occur at joints and seams, which can be easily fixed with gutter sealant. Before applying any sealant, it’s best to clean the area and wire-brush it thoroughly to remove as much rust and old caulk as possible. After a thorough cleaning, a small dab of sealant or roofing cement can be applied to the hole with a putty knife and spread for a thin layer.
Another common gutter problem is sagging, which can also be easily fixed. If you notice that a section of your gutter is starting to pull away from the fascia board, you should call in professional roofers right away as this can lead to further damage and rot.
Similarly, if you see screws that hold the gutter to the fascia loosening or falling out altogether, it’s important to address this issue as soon as possible. If you allow these fasteners to fall off completely, it can cause a lot of damage to the gutter and the fascia board beneath it.
Finally, if you have ice dams that form over clogged gutters in the winter, it’s a good idea to get them checked out and repaired right away. These can also cause water infiltration and serious damage to the shingles above them and the fascia boards behind the gutters.
In general, the best way to prevent gutter problems is to perform regular cleanings and inspections. This should include a full cleaning each spring and fall to eliminate any buildup that can lead to clogging or overflow. You should also consider installing gutter guards to minimize the need for frequent cleanings and reduce the likelihood of clogging from debris.