Rolled Roofing Repair Guide – Fix It Right!
If you have a low-slope roof, such as a garage or porch, rolled roofing is a popular and cost-effective solution. It offers a durable and affordable option for protecting your property. But what happens when your rolled roofing needs repair? How do you fix it to ensure its longevity and effectiveness?
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive rolled roofing repair guide, offering tips and insights for DIY enthusiasts. Whether you’re dealing with a small tear or a more significant issue, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover how to repair rolled roofing properly and save money in the process.
Understand Roll Roofing and its Materials
Roll roofing is a versatile and affordable roofing option commonly used for flat roof sections in both residential and commercial buildings. It is designed as an asphalt sheet made with modified bitumen, offering excellent durability and weather resistance.
The materials used in roll roofing play a crucial role in its performance and longevity. Let’s take a closer look at the key components:
- Roofing Felt or Polyester Mat: Roll roofing consists of multiple layers of roofing felt or polyester mat. These layers provide reinforcement and help to stabilize the roofing material.
- Asphalt: The core of roll roofing is saturated with asphalt, which provides waterproofing and enhances its overall strength.
- Granule Surfacing: A layer of granules is applied to the surface of roll roofing. These granules serve multiple purposes, including protecting the roofing material from harmful UV radiation and preventing asphalt oxidation.
Additionally, there are different types of reinforcements used in roll roofing:
- Fiberglass Reinforcement: Fiberglass reinforcement provides dimensional stability and tensile strength to the roll roofing material.
- Polyester Reinforcement: Polyester reinforcement offers high puncture resistance and tear strength, making the roll roofing more robust and resilient.
Moreover, modified bitumen, commonly known as SBS, is a rubber polymer incorporated into the asphalt product. This modification enhances the roll roofing’s durability and resistance to abrasion.
Pros and Cons of Roll Roofing
Roll roofing has become a popular choice for flat roof sections due to its numerous advantages. Let’s explore the pros and cons of roll roofing to help you make an informed decision for your roofing needs.
Advantages of Roll Roofing
1. Affordability: Roll roofing is a cost-effective option compared to other roofing materials, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
2. Versatility: With various application methods available, roll roofing can be used on a wide range of flat roof sections, including sheds, garages, and porches.
3. Durability: Roll roofing offers excellent durability and weather resistance, ensuring reliable protection against rain, wind, and harsh weather conditions.
4. Ease of Installation: The easy installation process of roll roofing makes it suitable for both DIY homeowners and professional contractors. It can be installed quickly, saving time and effort.
5. Quick Installation: Roll roofing does not require complex installation procedures, allowing for a faster completion time compared to other roofing materials.
6. Ease of Recovery: When roll roofing reaches the end of its service life, it can be easily recovered without the need for complete removal, reducing costs and minimizing waste.
Disadvantages of Roll Roofing
1. Limited Lifespan: Compared to other roofing materials like shingles or metal, roll roofing has a relatively shorter lifespan, requiring more frequent replacement.
2. Limited Aesthetic Options: Roll roofing offers limited choices in terms of colors and designs, which may restrict the visual appeal of your roof.
3. Vulnerability to Ponding Water: Roll roofing is susceptible to ponding water, which can lead to leaks and damage if not properly addressed.
4. Maintenance at Seams and Surface Wear: Over time, the seams of roll roofing may require maintenance to prevent leaks. Additionally, the surface can wear due to UV exposure, necessitating occasional repairs.
Despite these limitations, the advantages of roll roofing often outweigh the disadvantages, making it a practical and cost-effective solution for many flat roof sections.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Affordability | Limited Lifespan |
| Versatility | Limited Aesthetic Options |
| Durability | Vulnerability to Ponding Water |
| Ease of Installation | Maintenance at Seams and Surface Wear |
| Quick Installation | |
| Ease of Recovery |
How to Install Roll Roofing
Installing roll roofing is a straightforward process that you can easily accomplish as a DIY project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the roll roofing installation process:
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Ladder
- Tin snips
- Hammer
- Tape measure
- Paint roller
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- Trowel
- Utility knife
- Chalk line
1. Prepare the Roof Deck:
Before installing roll roofing, ensure that your roof deck is in good condition. Remove any existing roofing materials and make any necessary repairs. Install drip edge flashing around the perimeter of the roof to provide additional protection against water damage.
2. Prep the Materials:
Cut the rolls of roll roofing into the desired length using tin snips. Make sure to measure accurately to avoid wasting material.
3. Apply Adhesive or Self-Adhesive:
Apply an adhesive or self-adhesive to the roof deck using a trowel or paint roller. Ensure even coverage to ensure proper adhesion of the roll roofing.
4. Roll Out the Roll Roofing:
Roll out the roll roofing, starting from one end of the roof and working your way towards the other end. Be sure to align the roll roofing properly with the roof edges and any existing roofing materials to maintain a seamless appearance.
5. Secure the Edges:
Secure the edges of the roll roofing using nails or screws, placing them approximately 12 inches apart. This will ensure that the roll roofing remains in place, even during strong winds or inclement weather.
6. Join Seams:
To join seams, use an adhesive or a heat method recommended by the manufacturer. This will create a watertight seal and prevent any water infiltration.
7. Inspect and Touch Up:
After completing the installation, carefully inspect the entire roof for any areas that may require touch-ups or repairs. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a high-quality and long-lasting installation.
With these simple steps, you can successfully install roll roofing and protect your property from the elements.
Temporary and Long-Term Repairs
If you find yourself in need of temporary roll roofing repairs, we have a convenient solution for you. Simply apply roof tar and secure any torn seams or cracks with roofing nails. This quick fix will provide a solid repair until you can implement a permanent solution.
For long-term roll roofing solutions, consider replacing the damaged section with a new piece. It’s crucial to ensure that the new piece is properly installed and secured using adhesive or heat, following the manufacturer’s instructions. By addressing the issue directly, you’ll ensure the longevity and functionality of your roll roofing.
Maintenance is key for extending the lifespan of your roll roofing. Regularly inspect the surface for signs of wear or damage, and promptly address any issues you find. To enhance the durability of your roll roofing, it’s recommended to apply a protective coating. Lastly, don’t forget to regularly check the condition of the surface and reapply the coating if necessary. With proper maintenance, you can ensure the longevity and performance of your roll roofing.
