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

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:

• 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

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.

• 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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