Roof leaks are destructive issues that might be the biggest sign your home needs new shingles. Water damage affects your ceiling and your walls, floor, insulation, electrical wires, and almost everything in the house. Constant water damage problems can be costly due to roof leaks. A roof replacement can solve the problems if it is done right and there are no more leaks. The following roof replacement information will help you prevent leaks after installing a new roof on your home.
Assessing the Roof Before Replacing Shingles
Roofers have a number of ways to spot problems before they cause leaks. For one thing, they often take a good look at the existing roof. They look at the shingles, the flashing, the drip edge, the gutter, and the ventilation. If they notice something is out of place, they will suggest solutions.
The next step in roof assessment is to clean any debris off the roof. This can often be done with a leaf blower. Blowing leaves off the roof can reveal a lot, including loose or damaged shingles, loose or missing flashing, and gaps where shingles meet. This can help identify the areas that have caused problems and correct them during the roof replacement.
Roof Replacement Improvements to Stop Leaks
When you are replacing your roof, there are several things that can be done to prevent future leaks. This can include repairing damage to the decking and making other improvements. A few things you might want to have done during your roof replacement include:
- Repairing and updating roof decking materials
- Using ice barrier starter shingles
- Reinforcing vulnerable areas with rubber membrane tape
The right improvements to your roof during a replacement will ensure you don't have problems with leaks in the future.
Making Sure the Shingles Are Sealed After Installation
The most common complaint people have with roofers is that the roof leaks after the new shingles have been put on. Flashing is when roofers use special materials to seal gaps around chimneys and other protrusions.
To prevent this problem, roofers should seal any areas that could leak after the roof installation. Sometimes, these are areas like exposed nails or where shingles are not adhering to the roof. These issues can be sealed using asphalt roofing cement to ensure your new roof doesn't leak after a replacement.
Proper repairs and roofing installation will prevent leaks after you have your roof replaced. Contact a roof replacement contractor to start planning your project to stop leaks and water damage to your home.
Roof problems can go from minor to really scary in no time at all. One day you have a little leak, and the next you're left with major water damage in your attic. But it does not have to be this way. Well-informed homeowners know how to recognize roof leaks, and they know the importance of regular maintenance for roof longevity.
How do you become one of those well-informed homeowners? By visiting our website, of course! Here, we have articles about common roofing problems, hiring a roofer, choosing a good roof, and even DIY repairs. Every home has a roof, and every homeowner should know the basics about roofing.