Once in a while, we experience water leaking into our homes due to a damaged roof. The best solution to this would be to call the experts for professional service, but if you’re on a budget or you think you are able to fix the problem on your own, then you may do so. However, this is recommended only if the problem is minor. What are samples of minor roof problems? Below are some:
Common Roof Problems
1) Cracked or missing shingles
If your roof is made of shingles, a few pieces may crack or go missing. Especially if your shingles are made of asphalt, the changing temperature may cause them to expand and crack. Missing shingles are most probably caused by strong winds that come with typhoons. They can also be due to poor installation. Replacing a few cracked or missing shingles is easy and shouldn’t cause you any problem. Fixing it as soon as possible is recommended because it can affect your roof’s ability to provide proper insulation. It can also cause leaks that could cause further damage in the long run.
2) Damage caused by falling debris
If you have trees overhanging or near your roof, there is a chance that branches may fall onto your roof, damaging it. If a taller structure is beside your property, various objects may also accidentally fall onto your roof. If the damage is small, quick patching may solve the problem, but if the damaged part is too big, you may need to call the professionals for help.
3) Leaks
Leaks are common problems with roofs that are exposed to extreme weather conditions. They start with small corrosion, which when left on its own, can get bigger over time. Check your ceiling for any signs of leaks like dark stains, saggy parts, or other hints of water damage. The sooner you find them, the less problem they will cause.
Patching Holes in Your Metal Roof
If you have a metal roof damaged by falling debris or it needs patching, you can fix it on your own using materials that you can easily find in your local hardware store. As much as possible, we do not recommend this method and still suggest calling for a roofing expert. But if you are comfortable, able, and as long as all safety precautions are considered, then you may keep the following steps in mind. Note that steps may vary depending on the type of metal roof you have.
1) Prepare area in need of repair
First, you need to clean the area that needs to be repaired. If you don’t remove dirt or algae from your roof before fixing it, the integrity of your repair may be compromised. Once it’s clean, use a brush to scuff the surface that needs repair. This is important for the sealant to bond to your roof. Note that you should only scuff the area that needs repair. Scuffing other parts may remove your roof’s protective coating, causing more damage later on.
2) Patching
After getting the surface ready for repair, you may now proceed with patching. To do metal patching, cut a patch of the metal panel. It should not be less than 2 inches away from the edges, in all directions, of the damaged part. Then, use a pencil to create an outline that will serve as a guide for the patching. Next, apply a urethane sealant, preferably matching the color of your roof, onto the surface, ensuring that it stays within the outline you just drew.
Finally, you may press the patch into the area to cover the hole. You may notice the sealant oozing, which is normal. If it does not ooze, you need to apply more sealant to ensure that there are no gaps.
3) The final touches
You need to secure that patch in place with pan-head screws long enough to keep the metal patch in place without damaging anything under the roof surface. Leave it to dry, which may take hours, a day, or even a week depending on the sealant you used. An optional step is painting the patch to match the color of your roof.
Though the steps above sound easy, there is a risk of accidents or causing even more damage to your roof when the repair is not properly done. To avoid any untoward incidents, we suggest seeking professional assistance, or better yet, get a roof that will help you avoid any of these problems in the first place. Union Galvasteel Corporation, a roofing supplier in the Philippines, has high-quality, durable prepainted metal roofs ideal for residential and industrial properties. These roofs are resistant to corrosion and extreme weather, so you don’t’ have to worry about them getting damaged easily. If you think it’s time to replace your roof, our roof will be a great investment.
Partnering with Trusted Roofing Experts
When you think that a roofing job is too much for you to handle, be sure to get the services of only the trusted roofing experts. Fortunately for you, Union Galvasteel services are here to aid you in the various stages of roofing – from budget preparation, project scheduling, up to project completion. UGC provides detailed roofing estimate. We also have accredited haulers to deliver the materials to you as well as accredited contractors for installation.
Union Galvasteel is a market leader in the manufacturing and distribution of pre-painted and other galvanized roofing. If you need any of our products, we are easy to find, as we have the largest and most diversified distribution network in the industry. We have warehouses and sales offices in strategic locations throughout the country. Get in touch with us via our website or call these numbers for assistance: (02) 8520-8822-23; 8520-8831; (049) 545-0084 to 86 or 09175033965 (Globe) and 09190032303 (Smart).
