Storms are deadly. And the worst suffers are the roofs. Immediately after the passing away of the squall a routine check of the roof should be made. The checking should be from one end to the other without any slip up. A single hole or neglected spot might multiply later headaches. The worry will spill over from the roof to the furniture and furnishings. So the matter is not being ignored at all.
It is not always that a skilled hand in roof matters is at hand - especially following the aftermath of a disaster. So the owner of the house should have some first hand knowledge of roof treatment even though he or she is not a trained carpenter or engineer. There is no guarantee that another storm will not follow. So the minor first aid is not to be trifled with. If the roof is left unattended then further damage will spell more monetary loss. That apart - with everything is entwined the concern of the householder for the family's welfare and the guarding of them from the wrath of Nature.
So after noting down the weak points it is time to roll up shirtsleeves and get down to work. The first thing that needs attention is the not-so-humble hole. Immediately plug these. It is not just that water and blast can get into the house but cold or hot air may get out. It will tell on high electricity bills that are not worth the pleasures of stargazing from the settee.
The first thing to do is to spread tarpaulin or any sort of waterproof canvas that is available, over the entire roof. It is better to spread it outside than inside to allow for water to drain off. This spreading work cannot be done single-handed. Take help of family members or friends. The ends must be tightly fixed so that next huffing and puffing will not blow the sheet off together with the old damaged roof. Use ropes and nails for this.
Another alternative is to climb up to the roof and seal the holes with roof sealant chemical. Always be careful about safety rules as regards - ladders, ropes and human support to avoid accidents.
After completing these temporary measures it is time to locate the expert contractor or carpenter. It may entail expenses but in the long run it will pay - in terms of money and peace of mind. Roof repair work done temporarily can never replace the permanent magic touch of the professional. Storms are challenges thrown by Nature. We must take it up and win the game.
A New Roof Gives You Peace of Mind - But Which One To Choose?
Considering how important your roof is to the structural integrity of your home, it is a good idea to get up there and check on it on a regular basis. A good roof should keep out water and drafts, keep warmth in, stay on in a bad storm, and ideally, look good.
Even minor leaks can cause major damage if they go unnoticed. If a leak develops, it should be immediately patched, and plans made for a completely new roof. After all, where there's one worn out spot, chances are there'll soon be another. If your roof is nearing the end of its warranty, you might consider replacing it before a leak develops. This way you avoid any risk of damage to the frame, insulation, or any interior parts of your roof.
With so many roofing options, choosing the right one for your home can be difficult. Here are a few options available, and an explanation of their pros and cons.
Asphalt shingle is a readily available and relatively inexpensive roofing option, and consequently the most popular. There are two types of asphalt shingles, one made of glass fiber coated in asphalt, and the asphalt saturated, felted paper variety, also known as organic shingles. The organic variety tend to be heavier due to a higher asphalt content, making them useful in areas of strong winds. Both varieties have a top coating of ceramic granules which not only give them an attractive finish, but protects the asphalt from UV rays. Asphalt shingles are estimated to last about 15-20 years. The glass fiber variety tends to be cheaper. As for which is better, that really depends on your needs.
Ceramic tiles, those made of fired clay. Before asphalt shingles became widely available, ceramic tiles were very popular for sloped roofs, especially in Europe. One major advantage is they are fire-proof. Another is that the water collected off a ceramic roof is drinkable-ceramic does not leach petroleum toxins into the water like asphalt shingles do.
They are also heavy, which can be a pro or con, depending on the structure of your home and the weather in your area. Heavy roofing material requires a strong frame and especially strong cross-beams, but it is more likely to stay in place during strong winds.
If they are high quality, ceramic tiles can last 50 to 70 years, so although they are more expensive than asphalt, they are often worth the investment. However, poorly made tiles with inconsistent enamel finishes can deteriorate far sooner, so if you are going to invest in ceramic tile, invest in the best.
Custom Search