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6 Good Solutions For Different Roofing Problems

Mitch Avatar By: Mitch | Last updated October 21, 2022

a front view of an older house with a lawn that might need some work


Introduction

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you and your family from the elements, and it's important to make sure that it is in good condition. If you are experiencing any problems with your roof, don't worry, as here are some solutions that will help!

Leaks

These are often scary indicators that something's really wrong with your roof that requires immediate attention. The contracting team at Bison Roofing knows that leaks can cause a lot of additional damage to your property if you don't fix the issue right away. That's why you need to react accordingly. 

a bunch of tools in a tool belt on a roof

To handle a roof leak, you'll need to first identify the source. They can occur around roof penetrations such as vents, chimneys, and skylights, or in areas where shingles are damaged or missing. Once you've located the source of the leaks, you can begin making repairs. 

For leaks around roof penetrations, start by checking the seals around the penetration. If the sealant is cracked or missing, you'll need to apply a new sealant. For leaks in areas with damaged or missing shingles, you'll need to replace the damaged shingles.

It's smart to call contractors to help you with roof leaks, as they can be difficult to fix on your own. But if you're feeling up to the challenge, follow the steps above to make repairs and prevent future leaks.

Ice Damage

Cold weather can cause ice to form on your roof. Ice dams can damage your shingles and cause leaks. If you suspect ice damage, call a roofing contractor to inspect your roof and make repairs.

In order to get rid of ice dams, you need to remove the ice and snow from your roof and then seal any gaps or cracks in your attic insulation. You also need to install a roof ventilation system and add more insulation to your attic.

When removing ice dams, it's important to be careful not to damage your roof. A roofing contractor can use a special ice dam removal tool to safely remove the ice without damaging your roof.

If you have ice damage, it's important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Ignoring this issue can lead to more serious problems, like leaks and water damage. Frost and ice can also cause your shingles to lift, making them more susceptible to wind damage.

Damaged Singles

Shingles get damaged for various reasons. These are the following:

  • Torn: Shingles can be torn due to high winds.
  • Missing: Shingles can also be missing if they are not properly nailed down.
  • Cracked: Cracked shingles are caused by exposure to the sun or extreme temperature changes.
  • Buckling: This is caused by moisture buildup under the shingles.
  • Granule loss: This is when the protective granules on the shingles wear down, exposing the shingle to damage.

To fix damaged shingles, you will need the following materials:

  • Roofing cement
  • Roofing nails
  • Hammer
  • Chalk line
  • Trowel
  • Putty knife
  • Pry bar
  • Shovel
  • Ladder

Start by removing the damaged shingles. Use a pry bar to remove any nails that are still holding the shingle in place. Be careful not to damage the surrounding shingles. Once the damaged shingle is removed, use a shovel to remove any debris from the area.

Next, nail a new shingle in place. Make sure to use roofing nails that are the same size as the ones that were originally used. Place the new shingle so that it overlaps the damaged one by at least 2 inches. Use a hammer to drive the nails into place.

Standing Water

When you notice standing water on your roof, it's important to take action to fix the problem as soon as possible. Standing water can lead to serious problems like leaks, mold, and rot. 

There are a few different ways to fix standing water on your roof. One option is to install a drainage system. This will help to redirect the water away from your roof and into a safe area. Another option is to repair any leaks or cracks in your roof. This will help to prevent water from seeping into your home. Finally, you may need to replace damaged shingles or other materials on your roof.

Damaged Flashing

When the flashing gets damaged, it will cause deterioration of the roofing system. The damaged flashing will no longer be able to protect your home from water infiltration. Water will enter through the damaged flashing and cause all sorts of problems like leaks, mold, and wood rot. 

You can usually tell when the flashing is damaged because you will see water stains on the ceiling or walls near where the damaged flashing is located. To fix it, you will need to replace the damaged flashing with new materials. Do this by yourself only if you are experienced in roofing, otherwise, hire a professional to do it for you.

Clogged Gutters

When your gutters get filled with debris, it can cause a number of problems for your roof. The most common problem is that the gutters will overflow, which can lead to water damage on your roof and in your home. In addition, clogged gutters can also cause the gutters to pull away from your roof, which can lead to leaks.

Use a garden hose to flush out the gutters. Another option is to use a power washer, but be careful not to damage the gutters with high pressure. Finally, you can also use a plumber's snake to clear out the clog.

a person fixing an older roof

The roof protects your entire house, so you need to fix any problems as soon as they occur. Make sure to learn about all the common issues that can appear, and how to properly fix them. If you don't have the skill or the tools to do these projects yourself, don't worry, as not many do. Calling a roofing contractor will be your best course of action!

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