Paying for a new roof is costly enough to make you reconsider if you want to invest in a new roof.
Unless you are sure that there is extensive damage to the roof, you might want to try roof repair to alleviate the damage rather than buying a new one.
We’ll provide you with an average timeline of roof repair, as well as step-by-step instructions on how you can successfully repair the shingles, leaks, and so on. Keep reading for more information, suited towards both the experienced and beginners.
Roof Replacement: How Often Should You Replace The Roof?
To prevent the water from creeping in and ruining your walls and ceilings, you should address any obvious signs of wear and damage to the roof. The water could cause the wood to rot, and the decking beneath it will get compromised. Do not ignore any problems, even if they seem small and harmless.
Remember to conduct these repairs on days when it’s warm and bright, but not too hot, and also not cold. You don’t want your shingles to crack and be supple when you’re trying to install them. You should never get onto a roof that’s wet or icy.
A roof older than 20 years with most of the shingles damaged, you need to replace it. On the other hand, if your roof is seemingly intact, you can probably handle these repairs independently. Be aware that underlying damage can cause serious problems in your home without the necessary attention.
Take a look at the most typical repairs needed for a roof: cracked shingles, curled shingles, and replacing the asphalt shingles.
1. Shingle Replacement
One of the first steps to roof repair is to remove and replace the shingles. Use a pry bar and slide it underneath the damaged shingle. Press it down firmly to loosen and remove the roofing nails. If a part of the shingle is not there, you must replace the entire shingle. Look to see if you have any extra shingles from a previous roofing job; if not, grab a bundle from your local store.
You will replace a roof shingle using a flat pry bar, a hammer, roofing nails, and a utility knife. Every shingle gets secured by four nails. When you install the next shingle above it, it has to pass through the upper edge of the roofing shingles beneath.
You start by taking out the first row of nails. Slide the pry bar underneath the shingle that’s above the one that’s damaged, and carefully lift it from the sealant strip. You will be able to see the row of nails under the sealer strip.
Next, slide the pry bar beneath the damaged shingle And pull it up. As soon as the nail comes up ¼ inch, move the pry bar back, push the shingle down and remove the bail by pulling it out. You will continue to do this procedure for the other three nails.
Lastly, you have to lush the pry bar underneath the shingle that is immediately above the damaged shingle, and you will take out the second row of nails in the same manner. Once you have removed all eight nails, take out the damaged roof shingle.
2. Repairing Curled Roof Shingles With a Caulking Gun
Once you have slid the shingle into its new place, you have to make sure that it’s lined up correctly on both sides. With time, the asphalt shingles will get older, and their corners will start to curl upward or downward. Once you see that happening, you should get ahead of the situation by gluing the section down to prevent the curling.
Use your caulking gun to put a little roofing sealant beneath the corner. Use a brick to hold it down for 24 hours. Once the sealant is dry, you’re good to go.
3. Repairing Cracked Shingles
Gently lift the top shingle and put the new shingle in place. Secure it with roofing nails.
Remember that you don’t necessarily have to replace a torn or cracked shingle. You can repair it instead. You have to apply a thick layer of sealant beneath the crack, push it down, and apply another layer on the crack. Spread the adhesive using a putty knife.
You can easily repair your roof by using these simple steps, being properly equipped, and following safety tips that will keep you out of harm’s way. Always consult a professional if it seems like your repairs were not done correctly or if doing it yourself seems to be beyond your scope of expertise.
