Roof Repairs

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Roof Repairs can be an option for prolonging the life of your overall roof system.

Many factors will come into play such as:

1.  The life expectancy of the existing roof.
2.  Costs of full replacement vs. a repair
3.  The ability to produce a quality repair on the existing roof.

Common roof system failures may be repaired if the cause is ascertained and 

proper roof repair methods are followed.

Flashings: Flashings must be installed per the manufacturers' installation guidelines.

Flashings divert water around chimneys, end walls, and skylights.  When flashings fail or are 

improperly installed, water will find its way under your shingles, tile, or metal roof.

Flashings are made out of galvanized metal, copper, and aluminum. Some skylight flashings

are made out of a flexible composite material. Lead flashings are unadvised due to squirrels 

and other rodents that damage them.

Asphalt Shingles:  Shingles will eventually experience granule loss. These granules are 

typically made out of limestone. Granules help to protect the asphalt shingle from 

degrading due to the sun's ultraviolet rays. High winds, people walking on shingles, and 

algae contribute to granule loss. Click HERE to see more about granule loss.  Shingles may 

blister or crack due to large temperature changes. Improperly ventilated attic spaces 

contribute to shingle failure and also void manufacturers' warranties. The Department of 

Housing and Development has issued minimal ventilation requirements for FHA. The ratio of

the total net free ventilation area to the area of the ceiling shall be not less than 1/150, except

that the ratio may be 1/300  if: certain conditions are met.  Shingles may delaminate or un-bond

from each other due to manufacturers' defects or high winds. It is imperative to follow

manufacturers' cold weather installation instructions to insure proper bonding of the shingles.

High Wind nailing patterns should always be followed.

Improper Decking:   Decking whether it is plywood, OSB, board, or insulation board, must

provide for positive drainage of the roof system. Ponding that occurs will almost certainly find

its way into the roof system. No roof system should be considered waterproof, but rather 

water shedding. Improperly nailed decking and incorrect decking can contribute greatly to its

premature failure. Decking sizes and nailing patterns are governed by building codes. 

Metal Roofing:  Metal roofing failures typically involve coating and fastener failures.

Metal when installed near salt water should be coated by the manufacturer to their saltwater 

guidelines. Screws have different life expectancies also. We find that the rubber washers tend to 

fail after several years and lead to water penetrating the roof system. We offer re-screw 

installations using WoodZAC screws.

Membrane Failures:  The leading cause of failures are improper penetrations, improper heat 

welds, and foot traffic. Penetrations should take use of the proper membrane flashings. Doing 

inspection patches along welds will insure proper bonding. The use of specially designed foot 

pads will reduce the wear and tear on your membrane roof. Repairs can include patches if 

properly installed. Modified Bitumen, TPO, EPDM, and PVC roofs are usually easily patched.

Always make sure your roof repairs are completed by a Certified roof professional, following 

manufacturers' guidelines.