A Quick Primer on Roof Repairs

Roof repairs can range from a simple, replace-one-or-two shingles, job to a complete resurfacing of the roof. If you think your roof is in need of repair, here are some things you can do to determine what to do and how to go about doing it.

Inspecting

Inside

From inside your attic, look for water stains on the underside of the roof decking or for wet spots in the insulation. Also, check along the edges of the attic and around vents as water may enter in through these areas. If you detect signs that water has entered through the roof, detail the location dimensionally, so the spot is more readily found on the roof’s surface.

Outside

Walk around the perimeter of your house looking for damage to the fascia along the eaves, curled or broken shingles, and large objects resting on the roof. Any of these situations will allow water to seep through into your home.

If you insist on climbing up to inspect the roof, stay on the ladder and look at the roof from that perspective. Look for cracked or broken shingles, cracked or separated caulking, bent flashing, holes, and low spots. If the roof is flat, look for blisters, cracks, and low spots as well as separation where the roof adjoins the rest of the building.

If you see obvious damage to the roof, it is time to decide how you want the roof repairs done. If you found signs of water damage inside the attic, but could not find anything on the roof, contact your insurance company or a roofing contractor. They will send a representative to locate and identify the problem.

Repairing

If the repairs involve replacing only a few square feet of shingles, or patching a small part of a flat roof, you can probably do the job yourself. A good hardware store or building materials supplier will give you good advice and guidance on what to do.

If the damage to the roof is more extensive than a couple of square feet, your best bet is to contact roofing companies to make repairs. Reputable roofers are licensed, carry proper insurance, and have experienced at what they do. In addition, manufacturers’ of roofing materials have specific installation guidelines for their products. Failing to follow them could void any warranties.

If your insurance company is covering the cost of repairs, they may want to see that you used a licensed roofer before they will cover the new roof through your policy. Check on this. Finally, many communities require that a permit be obtained in order to roof your house. A contractor will know this and is responsible for obtaining permits. If you do the roof repairs yourself, and you do not have a permit, the legal issues could cost you more than the money you saved.