The roof is one of the most critical elements of the house. Maintenance is essential for keeping your roofing efficient and durable. If you have loose shingles, here are the top repair tips you can use.
Remove Damaged Shingles Carefully
If you spot damage on more than one shingle, the roof’s structure and attic could be vulnerable to water damage. You ought to fix cracked shingles as soon as possible with roofing cement.
Remove the tile by gently sliding a pry bar under the shingles and then pushing it upwards. Push the shingle down so that the nail pops out. Pull out the nail and repeat the process for all the nails on the tile.
Repair Cracked Shingles With Cement
You don’t have to replace tiles with signs of cracking and tearing. You can use a trowel to apply roofing adhesive under the crack. Push the tile down and apply another layer of sealant on top. Wipe off any remaining spills with an old rag. Look for granules that have accumulated in the gutters. You can sprinkle the granules on the tile to conceal the repair.
Use the holes from the original nails rather than make new holes. Be sure to nail back any undamaged shingles you had removed earlier to avoid further damage.
Secure Curling Shingles
Curling and buckling shingles are symptoms that suggest you need a roof replacement. The defects are often the result of wear due to aging. However, at the onset of the curling, you can prevent further damage by securing the tile’s edges with caulking.
Use a caulking gun to apply the sealant along the shingle’s corner, where it curls upwards. Place a brick on the tile and let the sealant settle. Remove the brick after 24 hours after the sealant has dried.
Do You Need Roof Replacement?
Whether you require a replacement depends on why the shingles are falling off. If they are loose due to occasional weather events, you can use the methods above to fix them. However, if the damage is due to hailstorms, consider consulting a roofer to inspect the underlying structure. Water can ruin the structure and cut down the life of your roofing.
The reason for the defects could also be due to substandard installations. Typically, you will need reinstallation to prevent rapid deterioration. But if your roofing has been neglected or is more than 25 years old, a replacement is critical. Consult a qualified roofing professional to determine the extent of the damage. A roofer will be glad to explore repair and replacement solutions suitable for your home.
Conclusively, prompt repairs can prevent expensive roofing work in the future. So it is advisable to pay attention to signs of deterioration. If you are not sure if you need a replacement, schedule an inspection with a certified roofer today.
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.