Storm damage is one of the leading reasons homeowners need roof repair. Even if your home’s roof is in fairly good shape, high winds can rip shingles off and leave them vulnerable to further damage.
You should also check the flashing around vent pipes, dormers and roof-pitch transition points. Use a ladder to get to these areas and be sure to wear rubberized gloves when working with mineral spirits. Visit Website to learn more.
Located at the peak of your roof, ridge caps are an essential component for protecting and extending the lifespan of your roofing system. They seal the seam between two sloping sides of your home to prevent water penetration and other issues like structural damage, mold, and pest infestation. Unfortunately, due to their location and construction, roof ridge caps are especially vulnerable to leaks and wear and tear. As such, it is important to perform regular inspections and maintenance to spot early signs of deterioration or damage, and to address issues promptly to avoid costly repairs or replacement.
While ridge caps are typically built of sturdy materials, including asphalt and metal, the elements can still wreak havoc on these essential components. High winds, rain, and changing temperatures can cause the material to deteriorate and result in cracks, dislodged pieces, or gaps. In addition, poor installation or improper sealant can lead to leaks and moisture infiltration.
A professional roofing contractor will be able to identify any problems with your ridge cap and address them effectively to protect your home from the elements. They will also be able to determine whether isolated repairs or a replacement is the best option for your home.
Ridge cap repair and installation is a delicate process that requires knowledge of the roofing system, proper installation practices, and the right materials to ensure a strong and durable result. To start, the ridge line must be carefully cleaned of any debris or dust that could hinder adhesion and the proper fit of the new ridge cap. This is followed by the application of a strong adhesive to help ensure that the cap adheres properly and seals out moisture.
Once the adhesive has been applied, the ridge cap can be secured to the soffit and fascia using additional nails. Finally, the cap is sprayed with a waterproof sealant to provide an extra layer of protection and ensure that your roof remains leak-free. With routine inspections and proper care, a well-maintained ridge cap can last up to 30 years or more, depending on the quality of the materials used and the environmental forces they must endure.
Damaged Soffit or Fascia
Soffits and fascia may seem like finishing touches, but they actually do a lot of heavy lifting to keep moisture and pests from damaging your roof and the interior of your home. These components direct winds and rain away from your roof edge and rafters, help your gutters stay functional, and protect the underlying wood of your roof deck from rotting. Keeping them in good repair can save you expensive repairs or replacements down the road.
If you notice your fascia or soffit is damaged, don’t let the problem get worse. Prompt repairs are critical to maintaining the structure of your roof and preventing extensive damage, mold and mildew, and structural integrity issues throughout your home.
To fix a damaged fascia, pry off the shingle mold with your flat bar and carefully remove the fascia board without damaging nearby roofing shingles or flashing. You can reuse your old fascia if it remains intact and in tact; however, if it splinters or splits, cut a new piece of wood with a reciprocating saw that matches the thickness and measurements of the original fascia and prime it on both sides to prevent rot.
Fascia boards are also available in plastic or vinyl to coordinate with the color and style of your roofing, but they may cost twice as much as traditional wood options. These alternatives can last longer than wood and are more resistant to rot and other forms of decay, so you may decide they are worth the additional expense.
Repairing your soffit and fascia may involve some ladder work, so be sure to follow proper ladder safety practices when climbing up to the roofline. If you’re unsure how to perform this job safely, it’s best to contact an experienced professional. A licensed and bonded roofing company or handyman can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action to maintain your roof’s structural integrity. They can also perform any other necessary repairs that will protect your home from excessive moisture and pests.
Damaged Rafter Tails
Rafter tails are the ends of roof rafters that extend out from the wall to support the fascia boards and eave gutters. They’re often cut to be decorative and can add a lot of character to your home’s design. However, rafter tails are also exposed to the elements and require regular maintenance. Depending on the material, staining or painting may be necessary to keep them looking their best.
When a rafter tail starts to rot, it can weaken the entire structure of your roof. This can lead to a number of issues, including water leaks and structural damage. It’s important to address rafter tail damage as soon as you notice it.
If the rot is limited to just the rafter tails, it’s possible that scraping the rotten wood away and filling in the void with Bondo, followed by a paint job will be sufficient. However, if the rot has spread to the rafters themselves you’ll need to splice or replace them.
Alternatively, you can install new decorative rafter tails that will last longer. However, this is a significant project that will require attic access and the removal of more of your roof sheathing. It’s a good idea to consult with an architect or designer before you start working on this.
Another option is to use a special construction adhesive when you install new rafter tails. This will help to keep the new piece in place and ensure that it doesn’t move down the line. This method also requires careful measuring and cutting to ensure that the new rafter tail is properly sized. You can also use a long screw (3 to 4 inches) to create a secure connection between the new rafter tail and the existing one. This will prevent the new rafter from moving and potentially tearing up the shingles and roof sheathing in a wind event.
Damaged Flashing
One of the biggest culprits of roof leaks is the roof’s flashing. This essential component is designed to direct water away from the roof in vulnerable areas such as valleys, chimneys and vents as well as where a roof meets a vertical surface like a wall or dormer. When flashing is damaged or deteriorating, it can create leaks that can damage the roof structure and leak into a home.
Luckily, roof flashing is relatively easy to spot and repair. Look for damaged shingles that appear lifted around the flashing, or for cracks or rust around the joints and seams of flashing. Cracks and rust indicate that the flashing has begun to wear down, leaving the space open for water intrusion. If you have visible signs of flashing problems, it is important to call a roofing repair expert right away to prevent further damage and potential leaks.
It’s also a good idea to keep detailed records of all flashing repairs, including before-and-after photos, measurements, and the materials used. This documentation can help you prove that you have performed a necessary and proper roof repair for warranty claims or when selling your home.
Some minor flashing repairs can be made at home with the proper tools and materials. For instance, small holes in roof flashing that have been caused by corrosion or age-related wear can be repaired with flashing tape. Just be sure to clean the area thoroughly and properly apply the tape to create a strong and waterproof seal.
However, flashing repairs that involve removing roof shingles, cutting and installing new flashing and sealing it with roofing cement should be left to experienced roofing contractors. Without the proper skills, tools and knowledge, it is easy to damage a roof’s basic framing while performing flashing repairs.
A well-maintained roof is a valuable asset that protects everything in the home. But if your roof is compromised, even a single leak can have devastating effects on the rest of the house and lead to costly repairs. A regular maintenance schedule and quick repairs to any issues can help your roof perform as it should.