Roofing Installation and Repair Techniques

Roofs provide shelter from rain, snow, sunlight and extremes of temperature in various forms of weather conditions, providing essential protection. There are various roof designs to meet varying climate conditions.

A reliable roofing contractor should complete their work efficiently and affordably. Here are a few tips to ensure you make the most of your roof installation or repair project: remove wall decor – Hammering vibrations can knock them off the walls, so relocate them beforehand so as not to interfere with any work being performed on your roof.

1. Install a Flashing

Flashing is an impervious metal sheet used to form water-repellent barriers around roof projections and intersections, such as chimneys, dormers, vent pipes, skylights and more. Proper installation and sealing will prevent structural damage as well as leaks, mold growth and moisture-related problems on a roof.

Flashing installation professionals usually utilize copper and aluminum sheets for flashing fabrication, applying roofing cement or nails as necessary to secure it in place.

Reusing existing flashing during a re-roof job may not always be feasible, though certain conditions may allow it. For instance, if old flashing remains undamaged and has no leaks then bituminous roofing felt patches may provide temporary solutions in case of minor roof repairs.

2. Repair Leaks

Dark spots on your exterior walls could indicate a leaky roof. These spots are most commonly caused by issues with step flashing – the seal where your roof meets your walls that seals it all together – becoming loose or worn over time, providing an easy fix solution.

Your leak may also be the result of damaged metal pipe boots or base flashing requiring repair; this may prove more complex.

Access your attic or crawlspace in order to assess damage and locate its source of leakage. Leaks often travel along rafters and appear in different spots than where it’s entering your home – pinpointing its original position will help minimise long-term damage.

3. Replace Damaged Shingles

Roofing shingles that have become damaged or missing should be addressed quickly before windy weather arrives. When possible, use leftover shingles from previous work on your roof, or purchase new ones that match its style.

Before replacing a shingle, first loosen its adhesive by using a pry bar, crowbar or the claw of your hammer to loosen its backing. For optimal results, loosen two rows above where there is damage so as to expose nails more easily for removal.

Once the shingle is exposed, slide your pry bar beneath it and carefully work around each nail to lift them up and lift. Pull them out before disposing of them.

4. Install Underlayment

Roof underlayment serves as a moisture barrier and protects sheathing from moisture damage, an essential step when roofing either your home or business. A good underlayment could save money in the long run by avoiding moisture-induced wood deck damage and saving on repairs costs.

Traditionally, felt underlayment (commonly referred to as “tar paper”) has been used as an underlayer prior to applying roof shingles. Many local codes require the use of 30-pound felt that can be secured using standard roofing nails or special ones with plastic washers.

Contractors usually begin installing underlayment by overlapping it by six inches and nailing it to four to eight inch centers using EG nails at four to eight inch intervals. Subsequent rows will follow suit with closer nails at the edges and more spread-out nails towards the middle.

5. Install Gutters

Installed incorrectly, gutters can allow water to pool on the roof, leading to leakage and other complications. A good roofer will regularly inspect your gutters for leaks, sags or loose sections so as to maintain optimal performance.

Leaky gutters should be repaired using flashing rather than caulking. Cut a length of flashing using tin snips to cover the hole, bend its edges over gutter lips, and secure them with roof cement or sealant to complete this patch repair method.

Check for warped spikes that should be replaced with fascia hanger brackets to keep gutters secure, as this can ensure they remain secure. In addition, follow specifications for gutter slope and spacing from roof edges in order to avoid overflow issues and ensure there are outlets at key points along your gutter run to divert moisture away from foundation areas of your home. A good slope would be 1/2 inch for every 10 feet of gutter run.