Roof Repair
Leaks are repairable based on the conditions of your roofing system and the experience of the roofer.
When a roof leaks, it is typically because the underlayment has been compromised. This occurs when water is not properly directed off the roof and seeps into the layers below. In order to properly repair a leak, a roof inspector must be able to properly identify its source and origin. This is done with an understanding of the flow of water from its origin point to the area of the leak. A roof inspector with this skill can identify most leaks. Identifying the source is the best way to identify how to repair it.
There are many reasons water can penetrate the roofing system to reach the underlayment below. The following are some common examples based on the type of roofing system, but it is always best to have a roof inspector on the roof to properly assess the situation. If a roof is not too old, oftentimes it is repairable.
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs, due to their modular construction are easier to inspect and repair as tiles can be lifted without worry of further damage to the roof system. An inspector can easily inspect the underlayment below. Tile roof repairs will typically require redoing the specific section of the home where the leak originates to replace the underlayment underneath. They are typically found next to detail areas like valley, chimney, or skylight areas. They can also occur for such reasons as:
Cracked cement or broken tiles which create openings that allow water into the roofing system
Tiles that are not installed at the correct exposure. Rows of tiles that are installed too far apart will leave the nail holes exposed and allow water to seep in.
Valley areas that are closed or obstructed with debris can divert water under the tiles and to the underlayment.
Shingle Roofs
Shingle areas are trickier to repair due to the brittleness of old shingles. They cannot be removed easily like tile as they may tear when lifted. Whether a shingle roof can be repaired depends highly on the condition of the shingles. Easily identifiable repairs that are due to installation errors can be corrected. However old shingle roofing systems with multiple roofs are unrepairable due to the multiple existing layers.
Because shingles are typically more budget friendly, for a shingle roof with multiple leaks, it may be more economical in the long term to replace the entire roofing system.
Low Sloped Modified Bitumen Roofs
Low sloped roofs can experience leaks at the seams, perimeter, AC curbs, parapet wall corners, or roof penetrations. They can be patched or repaired by adding another layer of modified bitumen that is typically torch applied. They are easier to repair than single ply roofs, where a leak can develop due to a pin-sized hole on the roof. Roof coatings are an alternate option for repair in such cases where the leak origin is not easily identifiable.
When detail areas are improperly installed by previous contractors or handymen with poor workmanship leaks can develop. In some cases, the roof was installed correctly but was neglected by owners. For more information for roof repairs for your property, give us a call for a free estimate.