Your roof is the primary defense of your property against the harsh elements of mother nature. Its upkeep is one of the most critical things to consider because it could cause extensive and expensive damage if not maintained correctly. Not all people can afford to hire a roofing professional, so you might decide to do DIY maintenance.

Though it is not advisable if you are new, you have a choice to do DIY maintenance, and here are the things that you could do:

Find & Fix a Roof Leak

Start by looking for a leak from the spots on the roof. Roof penetrations are the first thing you need to search. The most likely source of leaks is an object that penetrates the roof. The reality is, even on older roofs, leaks in open sections of continuous shingles are unlikely. Roof vents and plumbing, dormers, chimneys, and anything else that protrudes through the roof are examples of penetrations.

The fastest approach to find a leak is to go up there with a flashlight and check for it. Just know that it will be challenging to find, and it might test your fears of heights, so it’s such an advantage if you have Equipment roof hatches installed. Once you’re up there, you might see black spots, water stains, and mold. Use a sealant to seal the openings.

If the job is challenging because you don’t know what to look for or how to do it, that would be the best time to call in the professionals. If you miss some leaked source, it will lead to more damage, which could be expensive. It would be better for the pros to find them and seal them before they cause even more significant damage.

Replace Your Roof Shingles

There are several reasons why your roof’s shingles may need replacement. Roof shingles can be badly damaged or pulled off your roof altogether due to hail and strong winds. It might detract from your home’s curb attractiveness as well as its safety. A competent roofer should be able to replace shingles with ease.

However, finding new shingles that are both style and color compatible with the rest of your roof may be difficult. You’re on your way to a successful shingle replacement if you can find them. The replacement of shingles is a straightforward, four-step procedure.

1.) If the shingle’s seal is still intact, break it.

2.) Remove the shingle by removing the nails.

3.) Install the new shingle.

4.) Install the shingle using a hammer and sealant.

If you need further instructions, there are several videos that you can find that might aid you in your DIY, but be careful because mistakes could cost you.

Replace Your Roof’s Flashing 

Flashing is an essential feature of any roof and must constantly be in good working order, or your roof will become vulnerable. Snow and rain would continually pour into your home if you didn’t have it. The flashing seals the gaps between shingles around skylights, chimneys, and other areas of the roof. In addition, roof edges and valleys frequently have some flashing.

Replacement of flashing may be somewhat complicated; therefore, it is a job best left to experienced roofers or someone with a lot of knowledge of roofs. While a shoddy shingle replacement may still operate, failing to repair your flashing properly might have disastrous effects.

In addition to the existing flashing, replacing the flashing will necessitate the removal of many rows of shingles. Along the margins of the flashing, you’ll need to scrape out caulking and old mortar. You’ll eventually use urethane roofing cement or a silicone caulking mixture to seal the gap between the step flashing and the cap.

You can find more guide videos online, each with various insights you’ll have to take with a grain of salt. Again, flashing repairs are the domain of professional roofing contractors since faulty flashing installation can result in severe water damage.

The Take-Away 

If you do not have the knowledge or skills to work on a DIY, then don’t risk it. Faulty work might cost you even more damages and might lead to other issues in the long run. If you need help, consult a licensed professional with a reputable background for a better look before making a significant decision.