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Home Improvement: Three Simple Roof Restoration Guidelines
Lawrence Kim
Residential roofs are fabricated using resilient materials such as asphalt, slate, ceramic, plastic and metals like copper and steel. However, the roofing structures are still susceptible to gradual degradation because they are exposed to unfavourable climatic conditions. This slow damage is not always obvious but it will eventually lead to roof leaks and subsequent water damage. In addition, the aesthetic value of the roof will decline, leading to low property value and reduced curb appeal.
Roof replacement can solve these problems and even increase your building's value if you decide to resell. Unfortunately, the potential costs of this type of project are high, so replacement is not always an option. If this is your situation, consider carrying out roof restoration, which allows refurbishment at lower costs. Here are some guidelines to get you started on the improvement project.
Clean the Roof
Sometimes, the roof may look damaged and old, but the feature is structurally sound. In such cases, you can restore the appearance of the roof and prevent continued degradation by cleaning the surface thoroughly. You should inspect the roof before starting the cleaning process. Common problems include green algae, growth of moss and invasion of fungi like mould and mildew. You will need to scrub the roof with a stiff-bristled brush and some water and bleach to eliminate the growth. Do not be very aggressive when cleaning steel roofs because you might damage the protective coating. In addition, you should install zinc strips on the roof to create an inhabitable surface for the destructive growths.
Apply Restorative Coatings
Restorative coatings can refurbish a leaky or generally damaged roof structure. These products are primarily used on metal and asphalt roofing, but you can check local and online hardware stores for special variants. A restorative coating is a fluid paint-like substance that forms a watertight membrane after application. The synthetic products can be manufactured from rubber, plastics and petroleum-based materials. The treatment is applied like regular paint, forming a uniform layer which protects and enhances the appearance of the roof. If you are using this method, you should reinforce the areas around the roof bolts with caulking.
Replace Old Flashings
The flashings in a roof are metal or plastic components that are placed around the joints and seams. They are essential in preventing leaks by funnelling water away from vulnerable areas such as around the chimney and vents. If you are experiencing leaks, your flashings might have failed. You should replace them so as to restore and reinforce the functionality of the roofing structure.
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