Roof Repair

In any case, the roof must protect the interior from moisture, wind, and provide effective thermal insulation. To meet these requirements, it is essential to monitor its integrity and perform repairs when needed.

The repair process depends, first, on the roofing material used. Second, the extent of roof damage matters. If only the roofing surface is damaged, replacement may suffice. However, if the supporting truss system is compromised, a full structural repair may be required.

Roof repairs can be carried out by professionals or DIY. In the latter case, keep in mind: all roofing tasks are performed at height, increasing the risk of injury.

Additionally, basic knowledge of roof structure and roofing materials is essential. Pay close attention to application instructions, as improper techniques can result in leaks during the first rain, or mold growth in corners during freezing temperatures.

Repair of Metal Roofing

Galvanized steel roofing should be inspected frequently. As soon as signs of rust appear, treat the area immediately to prevent metal corrosion. Clean the surface with kerosene, then sand it with abrasive paper and rinse with water.

After cleaning, apply linseed oil. Once dry, coat the area with primer and oil-based paint matching the original sheet color. For cracks or large holes, repeat the cleaning and priming process, then solder the defect. If rust reappears later, replace the entire sheet.

Soldering galvanized sheets uses a zinc-cadmium alloy. A standard soldering iron can be used. Additionally, zinc chloride is needed to clean the soldering area.

Repair of Rolled Roofing Materials

Roll roofing materials like felt and roofing felt (rubberoid) are commonly used on flat roofs. Felt requires annual coating with bituminous material for the first three years. After that, maintenance is needed once every three years. For rubberoid, apply bituminous mastic once every five years.

Apply mastic or resin using a long-handled brush. Begin from the ridge and work downward. If the felt has not been maintained for years and sheets have dried or frozen, apply two layers of resin. For added strength, sprinkle with sand.

Repair of Bituminous Roofing

Repair bituminous roofing using polymer-cement mortar or hot bituminous mastic. Apply mastic while hot. Before patching cracks, remove dust from the surface. Small cracks are filled with mortar; larger ones are widened, cleaned, and sealed.

Inspect joints with downspouts and roof base carefully. If the coating has peeled, clean the area, apply a mixture of polyvinyl acetate dispersion and water (1:1), then fill with polymer-cement mortar using reinforcing mesh. Protect the area from moisture for 24 hours until fully dry. Finally, apply a waterproof coating.

For widespread damage, install an additional bituminous mat. Apply hot bituminous mastic over the entire roof surface, lay fiberglass mesh on top, and apply another layer of mastic after the first layer dries.

Repair of Tile and Asbestos Cement Roofing

Since tile roofing is expensive and highly durable, its lifespan is typically long. Therefore, repairs mainly involve restoration.

Due to deformation in wooden structures like rafters and sheathing, tile alignment shifts, causing mortar to crumble and cracks to form.

To fix this, first address the root cause: reinforce the rafter system using wooden beams. Then fill gaps by replacing cracked mortar with fresh mix of sand and lime (2:1 ratio) with added flax fiber.

For damaged asbestos cement sheets (asbestos shingles), replace the entire sheet. In rare cases, small cracks can be patched with a piece of felt. Be cautious: sheets are fragile—avoid walking on them. Use a wooden ladder with rubber pads when repairing.

Regardless of roofing material, inspect downspouts and gutters during repairs. Their efficiency directly affects roof longevity, as they are designed to drain water.

Timely roof repair is crucial not only for functionality but also for aesthetics. Even a beautiful home with modern finishes will look unattractive if its roof is covered in rust and patches.