The roofing industry has changed quite a lot over the years. These days, homeowners are rarely opting for the standard, 3-tab shingles that were so popular a few decades ago. Instead, they are going with architectural shingles, and in some cases, with even more eco-friendly options like green roofing or slate. Whether you're shopping around for a new roof or are thinking of having repairs made to your current roof, it pays to be educated. Learn the basics on this blog, where we discuss roofing in the modern world. We explore various roofing materials, roofing techniques, and how to find the right roofer.
It's important to keep up with roof repair so you can prevent a roof leak. Even a new roof can be damaged by birds pecking on it, animals gnawing at it, hail, and strong winds. The older your roof is, the more likely it will have damage due to UV exposure and old age. Here's a look at common roof repairs you'll probably need to have done on your asphalt shingle roof.
Repair A Roof Leak
Roof leaks should be repaired as quickly as possible so your attic doesn't get musty and damaged by the rain leaking inside. Roof repairs for a leak might involve replacing a shingle and the underlayment beneath it so rain can't get to the deck and leak through. If a leak goes on long enough, you might need to replace your ceiling and have water damage repaired in the attic too, so it's never a good idea to let a leak go on for a long time.
Replace Shingles After A Storm
Strong wind can blow shingles off of your roof, especially when your roof is older and the shingles are getting loose after the adhesive wears away. When shingles get blown off, they should be replaced with new ones. This requires nailing the top of the shingles to the deck and securing the bottom with the strip of adhesive that's attached to the shingles. Also, it's a good idea to have your shingle roof checked after a storm to look for damaged shingles, especially if the storm released hail. Hail can cause so much damage that your roof needs to be replaced.
Replace A Vent Boot
A vent boot is a rubber piece that wraps around pipe vents. Since it's made from rubber, it can slowly deteriorate due to sun exposure. If the rubber cracks, rain can leak through and drip into your attic. Your roofer may need to replace it with a new boot. Pipe boots have a shorter lifespan than an asphalt shingle roof, so you'll probably need a boot replaced at least once during your roof's lifetime.
Secure Metal Flashing
Asphalt shingle roofs use metal flashing around the chimney and in roof valleys. Metal flashing lasts a long time, and it may even outlast your roof. Rust is a potential problem, and if flashing rusts, it should be replaced before it starts leaking. A more common problem is flashing being lifted and working loose around the edges where it attaches to the roof. This can allow rain to leak through. Roof repairs may require using nails or adhesive to secure the flashing to the roof to keep the rain out.
Contact a professional to learn more about roof repairs.