Having a roof over your head is definitely a blessing. However, it’s up to all who live under that roof to ensure that it stays in good condition. It’s tempting to think that the sturdy structure above us will never break down or face ruin caused by the elements. Yet, like everything else in a house, the roof may require repair or replacement due to years of abuse from the elements. You can easily get flat roof repair service in your area if you are able to find a decent company.
How can you tell if the roof may have an issue? One way is to check for moisture marks. If brown stains or peeling paint appear along the upper reaches of any wall, that may mean there is a leak in that area of the roof that needs tending to immediately. Another is to see if your shingles appear chipped. When one notices chipped or damaged shingles when they look at the roof, that’s a sign that they need to be replaced before they allow the elements into the home. One should also be wary of interior leaks. Water dripping from the ceiling means that it is time to call a roof repair specialist immediately!
When should a roof be replaced? An easy indicator is if it has reached its sell-by date. Asphalt roofs are meant to be replaced about every two decades while roofs of metal or clay can last for much longer. If a home is above a certain age, the roof may not be in compliance with modern building codes. When that is the case, the best thing to do is replace it so it will meet said codes. Natural disasters can leave horrific destruction in their wake, resulting in major damage to roofs of homes unlucky enough to be in their paths. Sadly, much of this damage can’t be fixed with simple patching so a roof replacement is needed. Sometimes, replacing a roof can be just for aesthetic reasons. The owner has the right to completely replace their roof if they so desire and can afford for it to be done.
When should a roof be repaired instead of replaced? Easiest reason to choose to repair over replace is when the damage is minor. If the damage takes up a small portion of the overall roof and your budget won’t allow you to splurge on a new roof at the moment, it would be easier and less costly to patch up that section instead of going all in on a new roof. Time constraints can also play a factor in roof repair. If you need your roof repaired quickly, it may be wise to do a quick patch up job and wait for a new roof another day. Changing the roof may cause the whole structure to change in appearance, such as if you live in a more classic house. Thus, it would be wise to repair only the damaged section. If your roof has been replaced in recent years, it wouldn’t be wise to completely redo it again! Roofs are made to last for a long time so focusing on the damaged section would be better.
Is it possible for one to repair or replace a roof by themselves? It is very possible! Step one is to read up or talk to a professional about how to complete the needed work. Those who have done this before know of tips and tricks to make the job easier, such as renting a nail gun for securing shingles. Step two is to lay down a base known as sheathing. After measuring the section of the roof that needs working on, cut out a piece of half-inch thick plywood that will cover the area and nail it into place on the rafters. If one is replacing your whole roof, it helps to stagger your plywood pieces to resemble a brick pattern to add extra strength. Step three is to lay out felt paper. Starting from the bottom of the roof or section that you are repairing, staple a 6-inch starter strip, leaving a 1-inch overhang on the eave for drainage into the gutters in the case of replacement. Then place and nail the other layers working up the roof, leaving at least a 2-inch overlap of the layers. It is recommended to nail into the tar strip of each layer to ensure a strong hold. The final step is to install shingles. Starting from the bottom corner of the roof or section that you are repairing, lay out chalk lines on the felt to assist in keeping your rows straight. Lay out your base row of shingles and nail into place. Then place and nail in shingles in a pyramid shape, using six nails for each shingle to allow for a strong hold. Make sure to nail into the tar strip of the shingle as you work across and up your roof.
Repair or replacing a roof may seem like a daunting task, yet it does not have to be. When working safely, a homeowner can quickly replace or repair their domicile. When seeking advice on how to work on the roof, talking to someone who works in siding Gainesville Texas can be helpful. Those who work with siding in Gainesville Texas are always willing and able to give a helpful word or hand in assisting with any roofing need