Roof repair plays an important part in preserving your property's aesthetic appeal and value. In this article, we will share some of the different roof repairs available, some of which are specific to certain roof types and structures.
At Knights Roofing, we have been completing roof maintenance and repairs for many years and would like to share some of the experience and knowledge we have gained as a result. Below are five of the most common roof-related repairs that we commonly encounter. We will briefly outline some of the causes and best solutions to fix the problems.
Fix Leaking Roofs
Especially in the fairly constant wet and rainy climate that we experience, leaking roofs are a frustrating and common issue. The causes can vary, however, they are usually due to wear and tear, poor installation, weather-related damage or faulty materials. Repair options will depend upon the severity of the leak and the cause. For minor leaks, often just using a simple sealant (silicone, polyurethane, acrylic, etc.) can solve the issue quickly and with minimal costs. If the damage is severe, it may result in replacing part or even the entire roof.
Tile Damage
Another common problem is tile damage, which is often fairly simple to repair with minimal expense. Tile damage is usually evident through visible cracks or debris on the floor, often resulting in leaks or wind drafts. The most common cause is the weather, resulting in debris hitting the tiles or structural movement. Sometimes, damage can also be caused by work being completed on the roof if proper care is not taken. Repairs usually consist of tile replacement (using the same tile type and similar colour). Minor cracks or damage may require just the use of a sealant to restore the barrier against the elements. It is a good idea to inspect your tiles regularly, helping detect issues early.
Gutter Repair & Maintenance
Gutters are one of those elements that require regular inspections, especially if you live in an area surrounded by trees and potential debris. Leaves and branches are notorious for blocking gutters. Due to the buildup of debris, water will start to overflow and cause damage to the surrounding areas, the gutters, and their supports. Due to their sole purpose (direct water away from the property), the damage can be quite extensive when gutters are not working correctly.
Regular inspections and maintenance are often enough to help keep your guttering in perfect working order. If you have continuous issues with blocked guttering, installing guards or screens to prevent debris from entering might be wise. At Knights Roofing, we are often tasked with adding guards, they are a simple, cheap and proven solution.
Damaged Roof Flashing
Flashing is a vital part of most roofs. It helps direct water away from potentially vulnerable areas such as vents, joints, edges, chimneys, etc. The most common issue caused by damaged flashing is leaking. In addition, it can expose vulnerable parts of the roof to the elements. Over time, flashing can weaken or warp, reducing its protective effectiveness.
There are usually two repair options available, for limited damage sealants can be applied. For more severe damage, replacement of the materials might be the only option.
Repoint Chimney
Chimneys are often positioned to receive the brunt of bad weather, and over time, this exposure will compromise the integrity of the mortar. Constant rain, wind, and sun can cause this.
If the mortar is old and compromised, it is wise to remove the affected areas. If left untreated, leaks can occur or even complete structural failure of the chimney.
Fresh mortar can then be added to these areas (the colours need to match for aesthetic value), which will help improve the structural stability. It is important that during this process, you clean the surface, use the correct strength ratios, and allow ample curing time.
At Knights Roofing, we specialise in all types of roof repair and maintenance. If you have any questions or concerns about your roof or want an informal inspection or quote, please contact us anytime for a free quotation.