Leaking roofs can lead to weakening of the roof. This can even lead to collapse of the roof, making it very fatal for you and your family. Besides, it also makes your roof dirty and unhygienic. Hence, it must be immediately repaired. You can repair your roof yourself by just following some simple steps. The resources required to stop the leakage are also not very expensive. A little money and a little time can repair your roof in no time and solve the leakage problem. All you need to do is just locate where the damage is which is causing the leakage.I
Complexity Level: Moderate
Time required: 2-3 Days
Estimated cost: $300 to $700
Resources required:
- Binoculars
- Gloves
- Rags
- Roofing cement
- Metal bristled brush
- Hammers and nails
- Flash lights
Instructions:
1. For sloppy Roof
a. Find the source of leakage
The first thing before treating the roof is to find the exact spot from where it is leaking. Use the binoculars to locate the leakage. You can trace the leakage easily and repair your roof properly.
b. Check the drainage pipes and clean them, if necessary
The blocked drainage can create pressure on the shingles and sheets causing cracks in the roof. Through these cracks the water of the drainage can seep onto the roof causing its leakage. Cleaning the drainage regularly can help in preventing the pipes from getting blocked.
c. Do not delay in repairing the leakage of the roof
Replace the missing or the broken shingles or the sheets instantly. You have to pay careful attention while replacing. Use proper hooks or nails in order to avoid leakage. Also ensure to replace the broken joints of the chimney, the gutters, and the vents.
d. Use silicon or proper water proofing
After you locate the leakage you need to fill it up with proper water proofing material to avoid further weakening of your roof. Fill in all the cracks and the unwanted holes with proper silicon material. You can get proper outdoor silicon to fill in the joints of the skylights as they can crack anytime and start a leakage in your roof. If you have old and cracked sealants replace them quickly.
e. Overlap properly and replace any damages
In case of missing, damaged or a torn shingles or sheet, replace them instantly and make sure that you overlap your roof properly with shingles or sheets.
2. For flat roofs
a. Clear the drain water pipes
You need to make sure that the pipes that drain the rain water are clean and have no blockage. In case of any blockage, clean it up to avoid building up the pressure of the water causing a leakage. Do not forget to replace the broken joints of the pipe.
b. Mend the blisters
Use a sharp utility knife to cut open the blister in such a way that the cut breaks through the complete blister coating. Ensure, however, not to touch the roofing felt under it. Lift the layer and check if there is water under it; if there is water squeeze the layer of blister and use a rag to soak up the entire water. Then allow that part of the roof to dry.
c. Coat the roof with cement
Apply a thick layer of cement and then press the blister hard into the cemented roof making sure that the edges are pressed firmly.
d. Remember to close the blister
Use 6d galvanized roofing nails to seal each side of the blister. Remember to seal the blister completely with a thick layer of cement making sure that the heads of the nails are covered.
Frequently Asked Question’s:
What is the main cause of roof corrosion?
Corrosion mostly happens due to moss in the roof. It is close to the macrobiotic dampness in the wall. As the moss grows its roots deepen into the shingles separating it and in turn weakening the wall.
Quick tips:
1. It is important to wear gloves while cementing the roof to avoid the cement to stick to your hands.
2. Don’t forget to wear thick sole shoes before you climb up the roof.
Things to watch out for:
1. Use roof safeties as extra preventative measure.
2. Try to repair your roof on sunny days as it will dry up the roof completely.
3. Take care to be away from the power lines while you are working on the roof.