Older houses are really cute, and they have their share of issues, too, particularly the roof. With time, the weather, age, and old materials wear out. As a Canadian homeowner with an old roof, you should be aware of what to look out for and how to correct the problems before they turn into expensive repairs. Here are some of the roofing issues and how you can fix them:
Age-Related Roof Deterioration
The roofs of the homes also get old as the homes get old. The lifespan of most roofing materials is very short, and when they come to their expiry, they start cracking, curling or becoming weak. When this happens, roof coatings will be able to prolong the life of your roof by preventing further deterioration.
The coatings form a waterproof coating that reflects sunlight and is weatherproof. They are particularly good to use on older roofs which are not yet ready to be changed but require additional attention. Properly used, they can prevent leakage and stop degeneration.
Broken or Missing Shingles
Shingles are easily lost through the wind, snow, or after years of usage. Misplaced or damaged shingles will enable water to come inside and destroy the structure of your house. The repair of this will be done by replacing the broken shingle with a similar one.
In case numerous shingles are loose or missing, the entire replacement may be required. Ensure the new shingles match your roof. This not only enhances security but also keeps the home appealing to the eye.
Flashing Damage & Loose Seals
Flashing covers the joints of chimneys, skylights, and vents. Flashing tends to rust or peel in older homes, and this causes leakages. These are the weak spots where water can easily find its way to your attic. The following is what you can do:
- Determine whether flashing is rusted or lifted.
- Consider replacing your old flashing with new metal flashing.
- Fasten edges with roofing sealant.
Roof Leaks & Water Stains
One of the most frequent problems with older houses is the leakage. They tend to appear in the form of brown stains on your ceiling or walls in the form of water. These stains imply that water has its way up through the roofing layers.
To correct this, the cause of the leak should be located, and this is usually on chimneys, vents, or flashing. The problem is normally solved by sealing such areas with the right roofing cement or replacing the worn-out flashing. It is crucial to do it as soon as possible before moulds or rot can take over.
In conclusion, roof maintenance of an older house can be overwhelming. However, early detection of problems will result in easier repair and lower cost. Sometimes it is simply replacing shingles, repairing leaks, or applying protective products such as roof coatings, but every little bit counts. Check-ups and repairs in time make your home a safe, dry, and beautiful place to live.
