As storm season arrives for the northern hemisphere, it is important to make an assessment of any repairs that need to be made to your home. Check for leaks around doors and windows, as well as inner ceilings and outer roofing. For those with flat roof styles repairs can usually be done by the industrious do-it-yourselfer (DIY) but for anything big you should get in a professional whether you need flat roof repair San Jose or London UK. Here are some tips for repairing the roofing on your flat roof home to get you ready.
Identify repair area
To start your repair; identify the area that is damaged. This area will most likely be an area that appears to be indented, darker, or in standing water. Use caution when walking in this area because the surrounding roofing will be weakened due to rotting or water damage. The leak is usually caused by damage to the roofing felt. This is what needs repairing.
Gather your supplies
In order to make the repair you will need:
A utility broom
Something to absorb or collect any water that has gathered
A sharp utility knife
Safety Goggle
Materials to dry out wet felt
Roofing Cement
6d Galvanized Roofing nails
When you are identifying the repair check for deeper standing water, rotting, and damage to the structure, if the damage is worse than a simple blister, you may need to contact a professional roofer. Also check with your local home repair or DIY store for any other materials that you might need.
Clean the Area
To start you will need to thoroughly clean the area that needs repair. You will want to move any stray branches or limbs, sweep away any leaves, gravel or smaller items, and remove any standing water. When you have everything cleaned away you are ready to start your repair. If the damage was caused by a recent storm, take care when moving left behind debris. Use gloves to move any larger objects and be careful of others who might be in the area below when dropping or sweeping rubble away.
Steps for a Blister Repair
You will start your repair by slicing the blister down the middle with a sharp utility know, being careful not to cut the undamaged roofing beneath. This cut should be long enough to clean the damaged or wet area of roofing. Fold by the edges of the blister (damaged area). This is when you want to inspect the area beneath the blister. Check for further damage and access if you need a professionals help with the repair. If everything looks good, you are clear to continue the repair on your own.
Pressing from the edges to the center, squeeze out all water and dampness that has collect, and then let the materials dry completely. Usually overnight will take care of the drying process but if it is cold you may need to use a heating source to help. A propane torch is good for this, moving it back and forth in a sweeping motion, being mindful not to scorch or burn your roofing materials.
When dry, you want to spread a thick coating of the roofing cement on the bottom edges of the felt. To attach the felt back to the roof, press down firmly on the sides of the blistered area, keeping pressure on until securely fastened. Close the open blister with the galvanized nails along each side of the cut. When securely fastened down, cover the cut and nails with another liberal coating of roofing cement making sure the nails are completely covered. Allow to complete dry and set before exposing the repair to the elements.
This repair should be easy enough for the DIY home owner. Make sure you read all the directions on the cement and propane torch. If you have any questions contact your local store or professional.
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