Home improvement projects enhance the state of your house, making it more comfortable and habitable for you and your family. One of these projects is replacing your roof. As stated, this is a major renovation meaning that it takes more time and money to complete. When your roof is severely damaged, you’ll need to replace it even if it’s not cheap. Sometimes you don’t need to replace the entire roof but rather, carry out major repairs.
If it has gotten to either of these two options, you need to ensure that the renovation or repair is done correctly. This helps you avoid further issues. Additionally, you will enjoy the most benefit because the roof will be in good condition for a long period. If you have been contemplating renovating or repairing it, the following are a few essential tips.
1. Work with a professional
Nowadays, people are eager to DIY home improvement projects and this is a good thing. DIYing smaller projects can help you save a lot of money in the long run. Additionally, there are numerous resources online from videos to descriptive articles to guide you. As a homeowner you could even be confident to take on major projects. However, you still need to be very cautious when undertaking roofing repairs. Some issues and problems are best left to professionals from https://www.melbourneroofspecialist.com.au/. Ensure that you understand your limits.
There are several instances where it’s best to work with a professional contractor. Some of these include; if your roof is very steep or if covered in breakable surfaces such as tiles and stone. If you have a lot of damage on your roof or are nervous of your abilities, just work with a professional. Examples of damages that you can DIY are; minor leaks, smaller damages and a few loose shingles. Lastly, you could have a professional inspect your roof, to help you determine whether it should be replaced or just repaired.
2. Using the right shingles
Even when you are carrying out smaller repairs, it’s best to use matching shingles. When your roof has one or two mismatched shingles, it will be obvious and this will stick out like a sore thumb. As you go out shopping, be sure to match the brand, exact product and color. It may be challenging because shingles fade with time and even if you get an exact match, there will be a variation in color. Sometimes it could be difficult or impossible to get the same shingles that you bought years ago.
To be on the safe side, it is a good idea to keep back a few shingles when you are installing a new roof. You could also ask your contractor to reserve some extras. Furthermore, it will be beneficial to save some old shingles when you are renovating the roof. In case it is blown off by a storm or if it comes loose, collect the shingles then reattach them as long as they are not destroyed. This will help you preserve the look of your original roof since they were part of the initial installation.
3. Take every leak seriously
Every small leak can potentially create major issues. A leaking roof might result in visible damage. This includes things such as drywall damage and spots on your ceiling. Additionally, the damage may not even be conspicuous. Because of leaks, water could get into your attic, foundations, electric systems and walls. This could cause serious structural issues like dry rot, electric fires, foundation failure, mold issues and wood rot.
Once you notice any signs of a leak, take immediate action. Look for the source of the leak, and seal it to stop any water from coming in. After arresting the leakage, you can find a solution to solve this issue permanently.
4. Hire the right contractor
Maintenance and preservation of your home may seem costly but is crucial, to keep your home in good condition. One of the most important areas of your house is the roof and you should treat it like an investment. Therefore, for the best results, consider hiring a professional contractor. They should be licensed and insured. Moreover, a reliable professional will be able to provide quality services.
Your contractor’s duties will include providing repairs, inspections and reinstallation services as well. They should also ensure that your roof remains in as good a condition as with the initial installation.
5. Replace missing shingles and flatten curving ones
Often when your roof starts to age, the shingles will start to curl up and shed. Even if your roof is relatively new, some shingles could come free or loosen up because of storms or heavy rains. If you notice some of your shingles starting to curl, you can prevent further damage by tacking them down. Tar or cement should do the work, and can be bought from a local dealer. Get the cement and dab a little of it on the shingles. Press them down until they adhere to the structure and remain flat.
In case the shingles are too cold, you can warm them up using a heat gun for easy repair. If some parts of your roof have come off, they can be retrieved and used for the repairs. This will be beneficial as it will help to retain your roof’s original appearance and also save you extra costs.
6. Learn to fix small cracks and holes
When you remove a receiver or satellite dish off your roof, there are small holes left in place of these devices. Tiny holes are notorious for allowing water to penetrate onto the surface. Fill these holes using roofing tar. When your tiles or shingles crack, they’ll also allow water in. Regardless of how small these cracks or holes are, fill them in as soon as you notice them.
Your roof forms a major part of your home. It is therefore important to put as much care as possible. In case you are undertaking any improvements, these six tips will prove very helpful. You should also consider working with a professional.
