Kan Dail
In 2019, hailstorms led to about 34.3% of roof damage in the US. So, if your roof has gotten damaged due to similar natural disasters or just because you didn’t take preventive measures, it’s time to work on it!
In these cases, you have to repair or rebuild your roof to bring it to not just its former glory. You must ensure that it’s stronger than before.
So, here are a few things you must consider while rebuilding your old roof.
1. Assess the damage first
The first task on the list is to assess the damage. Check for leaks, missing shingles, frosty nails, and anything that looks out of place.
This helps you to understand the extent of the damage and also about how much professional help you need to seek.
Some damage can be repaired through DIY if you are experienced enough. Others will need professional help.
2. Protect your belongings before you begin
While working on the roof with hammers and other gears, your entire house, and especially your walls, will vibrate. So, it’s wise to unmount any kind of wall decor to prevent them from falling off the hook and crashing.
Some of these are mirrors, photo frames, hanging lights, bulbs fixed on the walls, and anything similar.
You must also cover any delicate furniture or appliance with a thick layer of protective covering to prevent any mishap.
Another tip is to relocate your vehicle to a safer site… yes, don’t keep it close to the house. Otherwise, you never know when anything heavy might slip and fall on it.
You must also unmount any antenna on the external wall of your house and also clear up the yard.
3. Think about everyone’s safety
Like any other construction site, roof repair sites are also pretty overwhelming and unsafe for innocent kids and pets. So, drop them to your relatives or a neighbor’s house.
You must also give a heads-up to your neighbors, so they can take appropriate steps if they have a sick family member.
4. Remove the old stuff
If your shingles are worn out or damaged, it is best to have them removed instead of putting new ones over the oldies.
Prepare the repair area by removing any debris, plants, or algae. The professionals you hire will do the same. So, instead, if you do it, it will save time and even some bucks.
But remember, shingle removal is a tough job, so if you do not have the skills, leave it to the pros.
5. Choose the right materials
Consider the roofing materials before you get the roof fixed. The choice of material depends on the type of house, the climatic conditions in your locality, and also your budget.
Check for the first two conditions because it is possible to get cheaper alternatives to the required materials. This will go a long way in increasing the time period before you need another repair.
You must also focus on materials that can help you save energy bills from using heaters or air conditioners.
One good choice is tile roofing, as it helps in improving the air circulation within your home, making it cooler during winter. In cold months, the air pockets between the roof deck and tiles insulate your home.
Another choice is metal roofing, as it gives great resistance to harsh weather climates and protects your home. Slate roofs are also equally energy-efficient and lower your overall utility bills in both summer and winter.
6. Check the structure
In roofing terminology, it is said that a ‘tear off,’ that is, removing the old roof, is better than a ‘roof over,’ that is, building a new roof on the previous one.
When you tear off, you can also check the underlying wooden frame structure that holds your roof. This is the decking – the thing that holds your shingles. If the decking is damaged, no amount of roof over will help you have a stable roof.
7. Install protection from water elements
When rebuilding the roof, you must also consider checking if there are any guards you can install against water.
Get a water or ice shield to prevent damage if you live in harsh winter conditions. Get good quality roofing paper and flashing to ensure there won’t be leaks.
Check your water-proofing properly in the new roof to prevent any water damage, because boy, those are really expensive to repair.
8. Connect with professionals for special roofs
Rebuilding a roof is not child’s play, and it should be left to the professionals if you are not knowledgeable and skilled enough. This is even more important if your roof is made of special materials.
Get in touch with a contractor who can measure and fix the damage properly. Different kinds of roofs need different people.
For instance, if you have a slate roof, it’s better to seek a slate roofing contractor. Choose one that is not only the best at this but also uses quality products for the repair.
The best way to find a great contractor is through high-quality slate roof tile sellers. Due to their long-term industry experience, they have an eye for the best of the best.
Just don’t shy away from a contractor for the price. It will be a good investment with guaranteed returns.
9. Maintain the new roof
If you don’t maintain the new roof, it will become as bad as the old one before serving as long as expected.
So, check regularly for water leaks. Keep tree branches trimmed and debris away. Clean your roof as much as you can from time to time to enhance its durability.
You can also take some preventive measures like avoiding planting any trees too close to your house or putting potted plants on the roof.
If you take professional help for the roofing, you can also seek their input on helping you last your roof for a long time.
Final Thoughts
Rebuilding your roof is a huge investment, so make the best out of it. Wisely choose materials and a style that suits your house. Follow these above-mentioned tips, as they will never fail your repairs!