Roofing is an essential part of your home, protecting it from the elements. However, it requires regular maintenance and repairs to ensure that it remains in good condition.

Depending on the damage, you may be able to repair your roof or need to replace it completely. The type of material, size of the roof, and age will all have an impact on how much a repair or replacement will cost.

Flashing

Flashing is used to prevent water damage from entering the roof or interior of a building. It is a thin waterproof material designed to carry water safely over any gaps and channel it to the gutters.

Flashing can be installed like shingles, with one piece lapping another or it can be sealed to function as one continuous surface. It is usually made of metal, such as copper or aluminum, but it can also be plastic.

There are many types of flashing and it is important to select the right material for each job. For example, you want to avoid galvanic corrosion (a condition where two incompatible materials degrade), so you should not place lead or copper adjacent to each other.

Shingles

Shingles are a common roofing material. They are made from a variety of materials, including asphalt, slate, slag, and ceramic tiles.

When properly installed, shingle roofs are very durable. However, they do require maintenance and repairs from time to time.

To repair a shingle roof, first identify the damaged area where the leak is coming from. Look for curled or weathered shingles, as well as any breaks in the flashing.

Next, loosen the adhesive tabs on the shingles two rows above the damaged one. Use a crowbar, pry bar, or hammer to carefully pull up the shingles, separating the adhesive.

Then, replace the damaged shingle with a new one. Make sure that it matches the rest of the shingles on your roof. If you need to, nail it down with a few heavy-duty nails.

Underlayment

Underlayment, also known as tar paper, is installed beneath your roof’s shingles to reinforce their waterproof barrier and protect your home from rain and moisture. It can also prevent mold from growing on your shingles and help them last longer.

It’s a very important part of roofing repairs. Without it, your shingles won’t stand up to the elements and could easily leak and deteriorate, leading to costly repairs or even a full roof replacement.

There are three main types of underlayments: asphalt-saturated felt, non-bitumen synthetic and rubberized asphalt. Each has its pros and cons, so it’s best to talk to a professional about which underlayment is right for your home.

Deck

Roof decking is the layer of wood or composite material that forms the inner part of your roof that connects the shingles and other roofing materials. It is the groundwork for the rest of your roofing system and can be a crucial component to your roof’s overall health and longevity.

The two most common types of decking are plywood and Oriented Strand Board (OSB). They are both made from layers of wood glued together.

Roof decking is susceptible to damage from moisture and rainwater, which can lead to rot and mold. The damage can also affect the insulation underneath your decking, which reduces your home’s energy efficiency. This can make it more expensive to heat and cool your home. Getting rid of the rot and dampness quickly is key to keeping your decking healthy and structurally sound.

Gutters

Gutters are an essential component of a roof and they work to prevent water damage to your home. But, like many components of your roofing system, gutters can develop problems over time if they are not properly maintained.

If you suspect that your gutters aren’t working as they should, you should call a professional right away. Faulty gutters will not be able to move rainwater efficiently and can lead to foundation damage and flooding.

It’s also important to inspect your gutters on a regular basis, particularly after heavy rains or strong winds. If you notice rusty or discolored metal parts, it’s a sign that your gutter is in need of repair.