The roof is one of the most important aspects of your home. You may not give it a lot of consideration, but it is a key protective barrier that keeps the elements out during inclement weather or heat inside when it gets cold. Although most roofing is designed to take a beating, some of it can become patchy or need repairs as the decades pass. In addition to whatever primary materials you’ve used for your roof, there are a few other things you should consider when this repair time comes around.
Flashing
Part of your roof’s job is to make sure that water can flow off of it easily. You don’t want water to pool where it might cause problems with damage or leaks later. If you think your roof might be having issues with this, it is probably due to a fault in the flashing. Flashing goes underneath the siding and shingles of your home. It is designed to connect the areas where the vertical part of a house meets the horizontal. With flashing repaired, water from rain should flow right off the roof without issues.
Roofing Shingles
You’ll need to replace the basic materials on your roof during a repair. Your roof may have shingles, but there are a few kinds that exist for various purposes. If you are unsure what kind might fit your needs, it is best to get in touch with a residential roofing contractor. An expert like this can take a look at the situation and recommend the course of action that suits you. This is a good idea that can save you time and money in the long run.
Underlayment
Shingles are the first line of defense against the elements, but they are not the only one. You should also make sure that your home has good underlayment. This is a sort of shield against ice and water, and it is used most commonly when you nail your shingles to the roof directly. Without underlayment, it could be easier for a combination of ice and water to reach the part of the roof under your shingles. This issue could trap excess moisture that builds up over time and causes bigger, more expensive problems later.
Proper Nails
Nails are useful in just about any construction project, but not all of them are created equally. There are special sets of nails designed to maximize their usefulness in the roofing industry. Different nails might be used according to different guidelines. If you are unsure which nails might be best for your job, you can check with your contractor or take a look at the guides set forth by the manufacturer’s association in the roofing business.
These are a few of the main materials you should familiarize yourself with before attempting any kind of roof repair. Each of them brings something to the table that can benefit you and make the job go smoother. Once you have what you need, don’t forget the important rule of safety first. Take time to get personal equipment that should include some kind of harness, a roof anchor, and a lifeline rope to mitigate your fall risk.