Is it Worth Patching a Roof?
If your home has small holes in its roof, you might consider patch repair. Although it is an affordable solution to the problem, it will not fix the root cause. Patch repair is like applying a band-aid to a broken leg. It won’t fix the problem permanently. It will not increase the home’s value. Is patching worth it?
Repairing small cracks in wood shingles
When a shingle develops a small hole, the first thing to do is remove it and inspect it. Generally, the hole will be in a place where water will collect. Use a prybar or a hammer to remove old shingles. Work from the top of the hole down to the bottom of the shingles, removing nails and debris along the way. Tape the area if you find any loose nails or debris before you continue.
Leakage prevention with metal flashing
Metal flashing can prevent roof leaks if properly installed. When installed properly, flashing should be of a 26 gauge steel to resist corrosion and meet building codes. It should also be cleaned and checked periodically for damage. Some flashing materials cannot be used with certain materials, including lead, pressure-treated wood, and aluminum. Aluminum flashing can be damaged by plaster and wet mortar. In coastal areas, salt spray can speed up corrosion. Hence, it is recommended to use stainless steel, copper, and coated aluminum for flashing. Flashing must be tightened and inspected every five year.
Properly installed metal flashing can prevent roof leaks by directing water away form the roof’s most critical areas. It is often installed around skylights and chimneys. It prevents water from entering the house and causing interior damage. Without flashing, water would drip into a crevice in between the roof and the wall. Sometimes, inexperienced roofers may place roof cement near the flashing. However, this is only temporary. To fix it, you will need a roofing professional.
Cost of repairing a roof
There are several factors that influence the cost of roofing repairs. A moderately pitched roof will cost less to repair than a steeply pitched roof, which can be several times more expensive. Another factor that determines the cost is matching materials. Asphalt composite shingles are the most affordable type of roof patching. Concrete tiles, cedar shakes and stone coated steel are the most expensive. Natural slate products are the most expensive to repair.
The cost of repairing a simple leaky roof can range anywhere from $300 to $500. An expensive repair to a more severe leaky roof can cost close to $1,200. Depending on the type of patching material used, a repair may involve replacing the entire roof, which can be very costly. In the majority of cases, patching a roof costs between $300 and $500. The cost of repairing a leaking TPO or PVC membrane can range from $100 to $1,500.
Impact on home values
When replacing a roof, homeowners may not think about the resale potential of a damaged roof. Some homeowners just take the roof as a given, and neglect it when it’s functioning properly. The state of the housing market will have a huge impact on the value of a home’s roof. You can make the right decision by asking local experts about the market and using data from your area.