Summary: Learn how to make repairs to a roof, replace a plain roof tile, replace a group of tiles, replace a slate tile, replace a ridge and hip tile, replace wood shingle, replace asphalt shingle, repair a roof valley, repair verges and make repairs to a flat roof.
Common roofing defects include broken or missing tiles and damage to a roof valley caused by general wear and tear or storm damage. Minor repairs can be carried out with the aid of a helper providing that you work safely, but if the roof is badly damaged and requires large-scale repairs it may be advisable to call on a professional roofer.
To fix a leak or make a temporary repair whilst you locate replacement roof materials, follow one of these methods:
Cut a piece of self-adhesive flashing strip and smooth it down with a seam roller.
To replace a single broken roof tile use wedges to lift the tiles either side of it. Tilt the tile to remove it from the interlocking tiles.
Having removed all the old tiles, start fitting the new tile on the bottom course first and work your way up the roof working from right to left.
If the repair requires you to cut a slate follow this method:
Nail the top end of a metal strip over the exposed gap beneath where the new slate will go.
Position the new slate ensuring it fits. Bend the strip of metal up and over the bottom of the slate, securing it in position.
Ridge tiles cover the gap where the two sloping roof surfaces meet at the apex. Hip tiles join the line of a course of tiles or hip where two roof slopes come together.
On the roof, apply a bed of mortar on both sides of the ridge or hip. A gap must be maintained under the ridge for air to circulate which keeps the roof timber dry.
To help you access tricky angles, disengage the hacksaw blade from its frame and use it by itself.
Loosen the fixings of the strip of shingles above so that you can slide the new one underneath with ease.
A roof valley is found where two sloping roofs meet, channelling water to the gutters. A valley can be made from various materials, often lead or another metal, but sometimes also plastic or tile. The method for repairing a valley will vary according to the roofing materials. Below are repair guidelines for fixing cracks in metal valleys.
For fine cracks or temporary repairs, use liquid bitumen compound to seal the area:
For holes or large-scale corrosion, patch the damage with flashing strip:
Apply flashing-strip primer with a paintbrush and leave to dry for half an hour.
When the mortar sealing the edge of the tiles on the roof verge is damaged leaks can occur.
To patch a hole in a flat roof, you can purchase a patching kit, which will include a specialist roofing primer. The instructions may vary from brand to brand so follow the manufacturer's guidelines carefully.
Apply primer over the hole and extend it out over the surrounding area.
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