A roof inspection is an excellent opportunity to spot storm damage. Look for dents in metal roofs (that’ll tell you if it’s hail or not) and damp spots on ceilings and walls.
Checking vents is also important. Often, leaks are caused by damaged flashing. Caulking can fix some problems, but it’s better to replace a vent that’s old or cracked. For professional help, contact Montana Roofing Solutions.
Shingles, which are typically rectangular in shape, cover the roof surface and keep rain and snow from seeping through. They also provide a protective barrier against sunlight that could cause the roof to fade or degrade over time. In general, shingles don’t require much maintenance beyond the occasional cleaning and inspection for damaged or missing shingles. However, if the shingles become cracked or torn, it’s important to repair them to prevent water leaks and further damage to the underlying roofing structure.
Replacing a single shingle is fairly simple. Begin by obtaining a bundle of three-tab shingles that are as close to a match as possible to the original shingles. Then, use a ladder to climb up to the site of the shingle you need to replace. Remove the nails that hold the shingle in place, and then pull off enough of the surrounding shingles to expose the nail heads beneath.
Slide a flat pry bar under the edge of the target shingle and begin to separate it from the adhesive or sealant that holds it in place. Do this slowly and carefully so you don’t tear the adjacent shingles. This process may take a while. In warm weather, the glue and sealant will be more easily sheared by a pry bar than in cooler weather.
Once the damaged shingle is loose, use the flat pry bar to lift it up and out of place. Remove the nail from the exposed shingle’s base, and then slide a new shingle into place. Be sure to line up the pattern of the new shingle with the existing shingles on the roof.
After lining up the pattern, carefully press the new shingle into place. Then, run a bead of roof sealant (about $10 to $20 per 10-oz tube at home improvement stores) along the strip of glue at the base of the shingle and firmly press it onto the shingle below it. Be sure to put a bead of sealant over any cracks or tears in the existing shingles as well, so that the next wind storm doesn’t tear off your handiwork.
Flashing
Flashing is a sheet of thin, impervious material used to prevent water intrusion in places where the roof meets other structures or projections like chimneys, dormers, vent pipes, skylights and more. It is a vital part of any roof because rainwater and other elements can easily penetrate areas that aren’t sealed, causing damage to roof decking, walls, shingles, insulation and more. Without proper flashing, the moisture could even seep into the home’s structure, causing mold, wood rot and more serious problems.
Flashing can be made from a variety of materials, including lead, copper, aluminum and galvanized steel roofing. It is rolled out into place and secured to the roof with nails or sealant to create an airtight, waterproof barrier against moisture. When properly installed and maintained, flashing can last for years before it needs to be replaced.
Regular inspections of the flashing are important to ensure that it is in good condition. Look for rust or cracks in the flashing, as well as dirt buildup that may block water flow. If any issues are found, they should be repaired promptly to prevent water infiltration and other problems.
When repairing flashing, the first step is to remove any damaged pieces and clean the area around them. Then, measure and cut a new piece of flashing to size using a utility knife or tin snips. Next, dry fit the flashing to ensure it fits correctly and is secure before nailing or sealing it. If you’re not sure how to do this, or aren’t comfortable with the task, contact a professional roofing expert, like the team at Cloud Roofing.
When it comes to flashing, you’ll want to be careful not to re-use the same type of metal that was used previously because this can cause a chemical reaction known as galvanic corrosion. Instead, use a material that is compatible with the cladding on your house’s walls and roof. Also, avoid nails where possible and use a strong roof cement to encase the flashing instead. This will provide a stronger, more durable solution than the standard sealant used on roofs.
Gutters
Gutters are a vital part of your home’s roof, allowing rainwater to flow easily from where it falls (on the roof) to where it needs to go – away from your foundation. Without gutters, rainwater would just pour off the roof edges and cause soil erosion, which can weaken the foundation of your home over time. Gutters also protect fascia, siding and exterior doors from water damage.
If the gutters are clogged with leaves, twigs and dirt, or even just standing water, it can create a breeding ground for mildew and mold that can affect your indoor air quality. In addition, it can rot the wood fascia surrounding your roof and lead to other structural problems. Standing water can also seep into your walls, leading to rotting and a host of interior issues.
Leaks in the gutters are common and can be costly if left untreated. The best way to prevent leaks is through regular cleaning and inspections. Leaks can occur in the corners of a gutter where the metal meets the fascia board, as well as at soffit areas where the flashing isn’t adequately secured to the soffit boards. Depending on the location of the leak, it may be necessary to replace the gutter and downspout system entirely.
Repairing a leaky gutter starts with scraping away as much old tar or caulk as possible, and then wire-brushing the gutter to remove any rust or corrosion. Applying roof-and-gutter repair tape to the affected area can often seal it and prevent further damage.
If you don’t want to worry about cleaning out your gutters regularly, you can always opt for a gutter guard system that will keep leaves and other debris out of the gutter. These are fairly expensive, but they can significantly reduce the frequency of your gutter cleanings and help prevent clogs.
Siding
The roof isn’t the only part of your home that needs protection from the elements. Your siding, or wall cladding, should also be protected from harsh weather and other wear and tear. That’s why it’s important to hire a professional for regular inspection, maintenance and repairs on your siding.
Siding is often made from the same material as roofing components, but they perform different functions. A professional can help you determine which type of siding best suits your home, and how to maintain it for optimal performance.
When it comes to identifying a problem with your siding, you’ll need to look for cracks or warping. These issues can allow moisture to penetrate the siding, which can lead to more serious problems, like mold or rot.
It’s also a good idea to check for any missing panels. If a panel becomes loose, it can cause water to leak down and damage your foundation, or even your home’s structure. Loose panels are usually easy to spot, as homeowners will often notice that a large section of their home’s exterior is missing.
If you’re thinking about repairing or replacing your siding, it’s a good idea to get a professional to take a look at your roof at the same time. They may be able to identify issues that you weren’t aware of, and fix them before they worsen.
In addition to examining your roof and siding, a qualified professional can help you maintain your gutter system so that it can continue to direct water away from the house and prevent moisture infiltration. They can also ensure that your roof and foundation are properly sealed, which will further protect your home from moisture damage.
When it comes to cleaning your siding, a pressure washer is generally the safest and most effective method. However, it’s important to note that using too much pressure can damage the siding and cause it to deteriorate faster. Additionally, it’s important to cover any exterior electrical outlets and plants before you start washing your siding.
