Repairing Roof Shingles

The roof is sometimes overlooked as among the important parts of the house that may require the least roof repair and maintenance on a periodic basis. Most likely because it lasts longer than the rest of the elements such as walls, doors, and windows. When a rainy day comes though and you notice there is a leak above from inside your house, it is extremely important to check the condition of your roof for any visible or hidden damages as soon as possible, especially if the roof is covered in shingles. As long as you follow through the subsequent steps on how to fix damaged shingles, rest assured that you will complete the roof repair safely and in no time.

• Inspecting at the Right Time
• Accessing the Roof Via A Ladder
• Treading Carefully
• Using the Appropriate Tools
• Removing the Damaged Shingle Slowly
• Replacing the Broken Portion

Inspecting at the Right Time

Before you climb up and onto your roof to inspect any damage, make sure that you will do the inspection in the afternoon or when the weather is warm and dry, but not very hot. Once you confirm that the visible surface of the shingles is dry, you may use a ladder to access the roof.

Accessing the Roof Via A Ladder

Place a ladder on the driest and strongest part of the edge of the roof. It is much better to ask for assistance from any family member or friend so that he can secure the ladder’s base to prevent it from slipping. It is also highly recommended to put on the proper footwear, such as a pair of gripping boots, to avoid any mishap.

Treading Carefully

Even if you think the roof is dry enough to be stepped on, tread slowly and carefully before you secure your footing. This will allow you to determine the specific part of the roof that is damaged and the number of run-down shingles needed for the repair.

Using the Appropriate Tools

The removal of damaged roof shingles requires the use of a utility knife, a flat pry bar, and the claw of the hammer, among other appropriate tools. In some cases, a bunch of roofing nails and a roofing sealant may be required in securing a replacement shingle and repairing a cracked one, respectively.

Removing the Damaged Shingle Slowly

To remove one damaged shingle at a time:

1. Use a flat pry bar to carefully lift the protruding edge of the shingle that is immediately above the damaged part.
2. Loosen the adhesive strip under the damaged shingle using a utility knife.
3. Slip the flat pry bar under the broken shingle to eliminate the adhered part further.
4. Pop open the shingle slowly until a portion of each nail on the protruding corners is revealed.
5. Unbind the two exposed nails using the hammer’s claw.

Replacing the Broken Portion

There are a few ways to repair deteriorated roof shingles, depending on the type of damage. Before you proceed, however, make sure that you either have spare shingles from the previous construction or repair, or you purchase the required quantity of shingles at the nearest home construction store in your area.

To swap a damaged shingle with a replacement one:

1. Dispose of the damaged shingle properly.
2. Apply an adhesive strip on the applicable edges of the replacement shingle.
3. Slip the replacement shingle slightly under the sturdy one and press it against the missing part of the roof.
4. Use the hammer to nail the replacement shingle down until it is very secure.

To repair a cracked shingle that does not need replacement:

1. Apply a sufficient drop of roofing sealant on both sides of the crack.
2. Use a putty knife to spread the sealant.
3. Put a weight on the repaired shingle and leave it pressed against the roof for 24 hours.

A sturdy roof is very important because it constitutes a healthy, livable home. In the event that damage on your roof is serious and beyond your basic repair capability, you should seek help from a professional in your local area.