Roof Repair: Facts about Roofs and Repairs

Roof Repair: Facts about Roofs and Repairs

Introduction One of the major components of any home is the roof. A solid roof can last decades if installed and maintained properly. There are instances where an entire roof because of age or damage must be completely replaced. Checking a roof regularly and spotting any minor imperfections and repairing these immediately adds to the longevity of a roof. Replacement of a roof is not cheap and regular inspection and repair can avoid replacing a roof too often.

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Table of Contents

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    

How Often Should a Roof be Inspected?

When Should a Roof be Repaired?

Can a Roof be Repaired without a Professional?

Preventing Roof Damage For the Best Maintenance of Roofs Use a Roofing Contractor

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How Often Should a Roof be Inspected?

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This depends on the type of roof and the location. Weather conditions and other demographic features should be factored in. In sunny dry climates, a roof can experience cracking from the heat and sun. In locations that are wet and cold, the dampness, and perhaps snow and ice, can cause pitting and lifting. There are also other acts of nature such as tornadoes and hurricanes plus hail that make an inspection of a roof necessary each time. At the very least, however, an inspection should be done every year.

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When Should a Roof be Repaired?

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It does depend again on climatic differences and age. However, here are some general guidelines:

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When a roof appears dry and has lighter and darker spots

When gutters are clogged as water can then push under the roof When there is the apparent lifting of the roof at the edges or seams When pitting shows up on the surface When holes even small ones are apparent Most importantly when ceilings or walls show spots of water seepage

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Can a Roof be Repaired without a Professional?

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Yes, but it must be done carefully. If a roof is in serious need of repair, rather than do it incorrectly it is wise to use a certified roofer. To tackle minor DIY repairs, however, the basic process below will assist.

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Walk across the roof and look for any damaged shingles Be on the lookout for any mold or mildew

Pay close attention to any gaps around chimneys or drainpipes Locate any suspicious shingles that look damaged

Remove the damaged shingles very carefully without damaging surrounding ones

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• • • • • • • •

Check for mold under the shingles and if necessary, remove the under layer too Replace the shingles tightly using the correct tools which can be found online or at a local hardware store. Instructions can also be found online.

Ensure the new shingles are tightly fitted into the existing shingles

Find all small holes that are left from satellite dishes, etc. and fill them Do not simply caulk any small holes as caulk will not work Replace flashing under all damaged areas including small holes Look for any signs of insect infestation Survey the roof from the ground also to ensure a smooth seamless look

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Preventing Roof Damage

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Especially on a new roof, it can be disheartening to discover there is damage. There are ways to prevent damage depending upon the area and climate. Roof damage in hotter climates usually occurs because of clogged gutters or drainpipes as the foliage is numerous. In colder climates, roof damage is more common, as hail, high winds, snow, and ice dams can wreak damage.

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Keeping gutters and drainpipes clean is a priority in any climate. These should be checked regularly especially after a windstorm. In the winter, in cold climates, a roof should be kept free from debris and if possible, snow and ice. Roofs can collapse under the burden of excess snow so as uncomfortable as it is, a roof should be shoveled off from snow and ice.

However, when doing this it is important not to savagely attack a roof with a shovel, or holes and slashes can occur.

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Make sure a roof has proper drainage via gutters and downspouts as the water build-up is a culprit in roof damage. Fallen branches also should be removed ASAP as the weight of a fallen branch that is sodden with water puts pressure on roofing shingles. There should be a thorough inspection along the edges of the roof as many insects, especially termites and wood wasps will nest under the edges of a roof. These creatures can go unnoticed for a long time.

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Adequate insulation also prevents damage as it is a barrier under the roof.

Trimming overhanging branches should be done regularly when close to a roof. In the fall, leaves should be removed from gutters and downspouts every month.

If in a very warm climate planting shade trees around the home can help cool a roof and prevent cracks and dryness from impairing a roof. A dry roof is more prone to cracking.

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For the Best Maintenance of Roofs Use a Roofing Contractor

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Most minor roof damage cannot be spotted by a non-professional. While a general contractor of a handyman can also be useful the best bet is a professional roofer. Especially if a roof is somewhat new, a professional can find and repair a roof to keep it in top shape for many years, perhaps even decades. Since full installations can cost some larger dollar amounts, protecting, and preserving a roof is the best plan.

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A roof is not an addition to a home or property. It is part and parcel of the property and as such does require as much attention as electrical and plumbing. It is easy to forget to check a roof so relying on a professional roofing company to set up an inspection schedule is a step in the right direction.

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The Conclusion on Roof Repair

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Roofs are built to last by good roofing contractors and roofs can last for decades. However, inspection and repair, and vigilance must be kept by a property owner, or a new roof will be needed too soon. Roofs are cost affordable considering the longevity of a good roof.

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However, the costs are not that low that a property owner would want to replace a roof every few years. Saving money by maintenance inspection and having repairs done throughout the life of any roof will extend its lifespan. All property owners should choose a great roofing contractor and then follow all the suggestions given above, with repairs made immediately when problems do arise.

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Contact Details

Terrazas Roofing https://www.terrazasroofing.com/

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Address

2447 Pacific Coast Hwy, 200 Hermosa Beach

Los Angeles, CA, 90254, USA Phone Number: 714-951-0292

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