Do you want to learn how to fix a roof? Like pipes and walls, roofs can start leaking without proper maintenance. Sometimes, high heat, storms, or age can damage the roof.
You have two options: do roof repairs or hire professionals. The former means doing all the work, but you need not pay for repair costs. As for the latter, you receive high-quality results, but the fees can be expensive.
Without experience, you will have no idea when it is appropriate.
Fortunately, our guide can help. Read on as we discuss various ways to DIY a roof repair. We will also talk about when to hire professional roofers.
How to Fix a Roof Leak From Roof Vents
Let’s start with the steps for fixing a leaky roof. Your first step is to determine where the leak originated. Start at the lowest point, such as a ceiling stain.
Follow the roof leak up to its source. Sometimes, the leaks are not visible in the ceiling. You may also find a leak in the roofline, near the roof ridge, or damaged plywood roof decking or sheathing.
You may also find the source of the leak in damaged roof vents. Roof vents include the following:
- Attic fans
- Turbines
- Plumbing soil stack pipes
- Elements with flashing going past the roofline
If the leak is from a roof vent, go to the top and examine them. Often, the cause is missing or dislodged nails. If it is the issue, remove and replace the damaged roof vent.
How to Fix a Roof with Broken Shingles
If your roof has broken shingles, consider replacing them right away. Check whether you have spare shingles from your last project. If you don’t, buy a bundle of the same shingles.
For this roof repair type, you need the following:
- Hammer
- Flat pry bar
- Utility knife
- 11/4-inch roofing nails
Study the shingles and nail positioning to understand how professionals did it. Use the pry bar to remove the first row of nails for the shingle above the damaged one.
Replace the damaged shingle. Nail it the same way as the other roof shingles. Finally, replace the ones above to ensure consistency.
Sometimes, cracked or torn shingles do not require replacing. You only need to repair it with roofing sealant applied under and on top of the crack. On the top part of the shingle, use a putty knife to spread the adhesive.
How to Fix a Leaking Flat Roof
Does your home have a flat roof instead of a sloped one? Here is how to fix your commercial building roof.
Most flat roof leaks come from inadequate drainage or standing water. When rain occurs and water pools, it can cause strain on the flat roof. Damaged flashing or roof membrane issues are also usual causes of flat roof leaks.
Determine the source of the leak from within the building. Once you have an idea, look for the damage.
In most cases, you will find it on the top side of the roof. Inspect for cracks on the roof membrane, flashing, or vents.
Consider removing the debris and letting the area dry. If you found blisters or damaged membranes, cut them away. Apply roofing cement under the membrane to seal the cut.
The last step is to secure the flaps by nailing them in place. If you are getting a roof replacement, your material choice matters. You can increase your roof’s cooling efficiency by 30 to 40% with suitable materials.
When to Hire a Professional Roofing Company
Sometimes, it is not enough to fix a roof on your own. If you do not know how to fix a roof, consider hiring a professional instead. It also applies when you find the repair process too complex.
When should you hire a roofing company?
All commercial building roof repairs need the expertise of a professional roofer. The risk of a failed DIY repair project is too significant, more so if your business depends on it. Look for a respectable commercial roofing company to avoid these mishaps.
Call a licensed roofer if you have no materials or time to fix your roof. Do the same when you are looking for a quality roof repair job. In general, it is always wiser to call a professional to fix your house or commercial building roof.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Roofer
Hiring a professional roofer or builder is more cost-effective in the long run. You can tell when you compare the cost of constant DIY repairs and how much to fix a roof. The average range of roof repair is between $367 and $1,592.
Despite the high upfront costs, licensed roofers can guarantee repair work quality. They also have the training, skill, knowledge, and tools to accomplish the job well. You can also rest assured your roof will not see any further damages.
Does your roof replacement project have a strict deadline? Worry not since professional roofing companies can work under a schedule. Their knowledge allows them to work fast and even accomplish the repairs ahead of time.
Accidents are common in DIY and professional roof repair jobs. The difference is roofers have the safety gear and training to reduce accidents. They also have insurance for the risks of the job with their roofing company.
Finally, roofers can inspect your roof for other previously unknown issues. They can recommend the appropriate repairs and solutions. Even if it costs you, you’re assured quality work, quick service times, and proper safety protocols.
Get Reputable Roof Repair Services Now
These are the different methods of how to fix a roof and when to call in professionals. Now you know when you need to ask experts to step in, you can make better roof-related decisions. You also have a better understanding of why you need to get professionals on the job.
However, learning about these is only the beginning. Look for the most reputable roofing companies in your area to reap these benefits.
Did you find this guide helpful? If so, consider reading our other posts for more.
