The need for roofing repair is almost inevitable for any homeowner. While completing a roof repair may not be something most homeowners want to tackle, it is certainly possible. Minor repairs, inspections, or simple tasks can easily be done by a homeowner if they are properly prepared.
The most important part of completing any work yourself is safety! If you cannot complete the task without harm, do not attempt and call a professional roofer.
Craven Construction has been performing roofing services for over 20 years. We are going to provide you with our greatest roofing repair tips to help you if you choose to complete a repair yourself and to help you save a few dollars too.
7 Roofing Repair Tips
1. Wear Proper Shoes
As we stressed earlier, safety should always be a high priority when it comes to completing any home repair. A roof is no exception and additional precautions should be taken considering the height and slope of the roof. Wearing rubber-soled shoes is highly recommended as they will grip the roof. Having shoes with poor traction can lead to slipping and sliding. It is also recommended to wear long pants, long sleeve shirt, and gloves when completing roofing repairs on your home.
2. Complete Regular Exams
Keeping a close eye on your roof will help prevent surprises, including the need for a massive repair or replacement. Completing regular exams on your roof may not be a repair item, but it is certainly something any homeowner can, and should, complete. If you notice any minor damages, take note and be sure to watch it over time.
A quick inspection should always be completed after extreme weather. For example, if you recently experienced heavy rains and wind, you might want to take a peek at the roof. Look for shifted tiles or missing shingles, water spots on your ceiling, and debris that has fallen onto the roof.
3. Match Your Materials
A common roofing repair that homeowners can complete themselves is replacing a few pieces of their roofing material. No matter what type of material on your roof, tile, shingle, metal, etc., you likely have a few left over from when the roof was installed to use for the repair. If not, you will want to match the material. The slightest difference in color or texture will be very noticeable and hurt the curb appeal of the house.
4. Repair vs. Replace
Understanding when to complete a repair and when to completely replace the roof is imperative to know as a homeowner. If a small, isolated area has been damaged, it is likely a repair can be completed on just that space. However, if the damage is bad enough, it may be a waste of your time and money to complete a repair.
Depending on your roofing material, there are signs to look for when to replace your roof. For example, if you notice a lot of granules missing from your shingles, it is time to replace them. Or if you have a tile roof, you might want to have a roofer examine the underlayment to know when it should be replaced
5. Pay Attention To Flashing
Flashing is an essential piece of the roofing system, as it diverts water away from the most vulnerable parts of the roof. When flashing is missing or damaged, the roof is susceptible to water damage and leaks. A quick and easy roof repair that can be completed by a homeowner is checking the flashing and the caulking around it. If the caulking is cracked, it should be re-caulked as quickly as possible. While you are checking the roof, look around vents and any chimneys as well to prevent water damage.
6. Use The Correct Nails
If you are choosing to complete a roof repair yourself, be sure to use the correct types of nails. Aluminum or galvanized steel nails are typically used for roofing needs as they do not easily rust. Also, make sure the nails are not exposed and hidden below the overlapping roofing materials. A little bit of caulk or sealant can help prevent the nails from rusting or allowing water below the surface.
7. Know When To Call A Roofer
Many homeowners are handy and can manage minor roof repairs. However, the best thing you can do for yourself is to know when it is time to call a professional. It is important to know your limits when you can’t figure something out or don’t have the time, skills, or tools to complete the job right.
If you know your roof is in need of repair or possible replacement, most roofing contractors will provide a free estimate for the work. They might also point out something that you may not have noticed or known about as a concern. Also, be sure to talk to several roofing contractors, look at online reviews, and ask for a copy of their licenses and insurance.
East Valley Roofing Repair
Craven Construction is your trusted East Valley roofing repair contractor! Our team is highly experienced in completing roofing repairs of every kind and is trained to do so safely. We are also licensed and insured for added peace of mind. No matter your roofing needs, we can do the job. Call our office to speak with our roofing professional and schedule your free estimate today!
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.