Roof Repair - What you should know as a homeowner

January 14, 2010

The occasional need for roof repair is common to anyone who owns a roof. A well maintained roof made from quality materials is still subject to weather, debris and the occasional mad squirrel. Consequently, every homeowner should know a few things about roof inspection and repair.

A word about roof inspection: it should be done regularly and thoroughly. You will want to repair your roof when you see a broken or curled shingle; not after you notice water damage in your hallway.

Now for a word about roof repair: professionals are cheaper than you think. If you have a slate, ceramic tile, or cedar shake roof, hiring a repairman is recommended. Many homeowners are able to do minor repairs on composite shingle roofs, but not all homeowners have the time, tools, or ability to perch safely on a roof.

If you posses the time, tools and perching ability, or if you just can’t justify hiring someone to repair half a dozen shingles, then here are some very basic steps you can use to approach the task.

  1. Remove the broken shingle, and the nail holding it, without damaging the surrounding shingles or roof materials.
  2. Inspect the tar paper and roof deck under the shingle and make any necessary repairs.
  3. Slide the new shingle under the row above it and fasten it with a roofing nail.
  4. Use a sealant on the nail head so that you don’t cause a leak in your repaired roof.

Just remember: if at any time during the repair you discover that the job is more than you envisioned, there is no shame in hiring it out. A professional roof repair is cheaper than a winter’s worth of water damage.

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