If you've ever seen a roof installation unfold, you can probably guess how complex these structures are. From the underlayment to the ventilation to the flashing and shingles, it's no wonder the idea of DIY roof repair is daunting to most property owners!
However, the truth is that there are plenty of common issues you can fix on your own, even with little to no professional experience. Fixing missing shingles, minor roof leaks, and other small problems can help you maintain the integrity of your roof on your own.
If you're ready to jump into a repair project, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind.
What to Know Before DIY Roof Repair
Before you dive in, there are a few things to know about DIY repairs.
First, working on a roof can be dangerous, even for experienced contractors. Without safety training and equipment, repairs can be risky. Consider leaving the repairs to a pro if you're not comfortable being on a ladder or roof.
Second, if you have an active warranty on your roof, you'll be voiding it with DIY repairs. This is true whether the warranty is for your roofing materials or your contractor's work.
Last, you may still need professional repairs. DIY repairs can patch up small problems, but they don't always address underlying issues for good. Seeking a pro's opinion can ensure that you fix the problem on the first try.
Roof Repair Safety Tips
When you spot signs of roof damage, you might feel the urge to jump up onto your roof and see how bad things are. Avoid the temptation! Before you head up to your roof to inspect or repair it, be sure you're following a few safety precautions.
First, avoid bad weather. Even if you spot a leak indoors during a rainstorm, wait until after the roof is dry to take a look. Slips and falls happen all the time even on sunny days, so don't increase your risk by climbing up to your roof while it's still slippery.
Next, wear clothes you can move around in with ease as well as rubber-soled shoes with good traction. Non-slip shoes are even better.
Use a good, sturdy ladder, and have someone spot you while you're on it and watch you from the ground while you're on the roof.
You should also move with care, watching your footing. Know where you've placed any supplies or equipment you've brought at all times to avoid tripping.
Fixing a Curling or Cracked Shingle
Shingles tend to tear or curl as they age. If you're dealing with one or two warped shingles, you may be able to do a quick cosmetic fix on your own. If you're dealing with many, it might be time to call a roofer!
For a curled shingle, you can glue down the edge with roofing sealant, which you can find at most home improvement stores. Weigh the edge down with something heavy for the next day or so until the sealant cures.
For a cracked shingle, the method is similar. Put some roofing sealant under the cracked part of the shingle, press it down, and lay more sealant on top. Make the sealant even with a small knife. If you've got any loose shingle granules that have washed off the rest of your roof, sprinkle them on to match the look of your other shingles.
Repairing a Roof Leak
If you're dealing with a roof leak, you might want to start your repairs inside your attic. If you're lucky, you're dealing with a "shiner," which is a low nail that hangs down into the ceiling of your attic and a silent sign of roof damage. Moisture can condense on these nails, causing water to drip into your house, so you may need to clip the nail.
You should also check for cracked caulk. If your leak has sprung up around your upstairs windows or siding, replacing old caulk may help. Note that caulk won't help you fix leaks around shingles for long.
If these solutions don't help, you might have to change the shingles.
Replacing a Missing or Damaged Shingle
If you don't have matching shingles from your last roofing job, you can match some yourself by ordering the last brand you used or visiting a home improvement store to find a similar option. You'll also need shingle cement if you're buying shingles without their own adhesive.
Remove any damaged shingles by lifting them to pry out the nails holding them to the battens below. You can do this with a pry bar or utility knife. You'll also need to loosen the bond on the intact overlying shingle or shingles so you can work.
Scrape out any old cement to loosen the adhesive, then remove the damaged shingle and grab its replacement. Place the new shingle in the same position as the old one. Most modern shingles have instructions and pre-cut holes that make it easy to tell how to install them.
If you've bought a replacement option with an adhesive, remove the covering across the back and press the new shingle into place. If not, use your shingle adhesive and then nail the shingle into place. You'll also want to use a bit of shingle adhesive under the edges of each tab, pressing down to make sure the shingles hold firm to the rest of your roof.
Consider Hiring a Roofing Company
DIY roof repair can be a great way to tackle common roofing problems, as long as you follow a few safety measures. Knowing how to fix these minor issues can help you maintain your roof's structural integrity or patch up problems until you've called an expert for a more thorough fix.
If you're scratching your head over more extensive repairs or you don't have time for DIY fixes, Tresnak Roofing can help! We'll inspect for damage and weaknesses before using the most current industry standards and techniques to fix your roof. Get a free quote by calling (248) 435-4848, or contact us online today.
