Houston roofing repair is necessary to maintain the proper functioning ability of a roofing system. The roof serves as protection against the harshest elements of nature, so if a homeowner observes a minor leak, they should act immediately before that leak leads to more extensive structural damage.
A leaking roof is one major problem that should be promptly addressed. If a minor leak becomes substantial, it will cause damage to the roofing structure itself. This could lead to damage to the contents of the home, causing the homeowner to spend even more money to repair that subsequent damage. It is better to correct minor roof deterioration at an early stage to prevent premature failure.
Common Causes of Roofing Problems
There are several common causes of roofing problems. These problems may include: weathering; strong wind; lack of maintenance; faulty initial installation; flashing failures; and pipe flashing. Any of these problems could cause water to leak into the home, possibly causing a major disaster. To prevent these problems, a homeowner needs a little common sense on roofing repairs that are essential to maintain the integrity of the roofing system.
- Inspection of Roof – Conduct an initial inspection. Check for torn, granulated or missing shingles. This initial inspection will help determine if a homeowner needs a professional Houston roofing repair contractor or may be able to repair the roof using a do-it-yourself method.
- Clean Gutters and Flashing – Check the accumulation of leaves in the gutter as it should be free from debris to prevent water backflow. A common place to find leakage is around the pipe collar. This type of problem can be repaired by replacing the flashing around the pipe. Ensure that the flashing is inserted under the shingle and secure the flashing using stainless steel screws. Then seal the flashing with tri-polymer sealant in an upside-down ‘U’ formation.
- Replace Damaged Shingles – If the home has shingled roofing, remove the damaged shingle by lifting the edges of the adjacent shingles and using a pry bar to remove the nails that hold the damaged shingle tab. Then slide the replacement shingle in place and fasten it with four nails. The measurement should be four inches wider than the damaged shingle. This will give a two inch allowance on both sides. Do not forget to cover the nail head with roofing cement to ensure that water will not penetrate the roofing system.
Roofing maintenance consistently delivers enhanced roofing performance when done on a regularly scheduled basis. It will help the homeowner extend the service life of their roof and save them money at the same time. The simple Houston roofing repair tips listed above should be understood by most people and could help prevent extensive roof failures. Once the above basic tips are comprehended, the upkeep of a roof should be more attainable for every homeowner!