When you rely on your home to provide you with comfort and shelter, you can't take any risks with its ability to keep water outdoors where it belongs. Great roofing is instrumental in the fight against the elements, because it helps to create the kind of environment you need to keep your home and family safe. Unfortunately, there are many homes that don't have strong, reliable roofs, which can cause problems in the long run. On this website, check out excellent ways to spot roofing problems and resolve them quickly. After all, your home is your most valuable asset, so protect it now.
One of the most vulnerable parts of a structure during a tornado is the roof, which can be lifted wholly or partially by strong winds and flying debris. If a tornado has damaged your roof, you may wonder how a roofer can repair it and restore its functionality and appearance. Here are five steps a residential roofing contractor will take to fix a roof that a tornado has lifted partially.
1. Assess the Extent of the Damage
The first step is to inspect the roof and identify any damage, such as the following:
- Missing shingles
- Dents
- Cracks
- Sagging
A roofer will also check the roof decking, the layer of wood or plywood that supports the shingles, for any signs of rot, mold, or structural weakness. The roofer will also look for any damage to the roof's flashing, which is the metal strip that seals the edges and joints of the roof and the ventilation system.
2. Remove Any Debris and Loose Materials
The next step is to clear the roof of any debris and loose materials that the tornado may have blown onto it, such as:
- Branches
- Leaves
- Dirt
This will prevent further damage and make the roof easier to work on. The roofer will also use a tarp or plastic sheeting to protect any exposed roof areas from rain and sun.
3. Repair or Replace Any Damaged Shingles
The roofer repairs or replaces any damaged shingles on the roof. Depending on the type and extent of the damage, the roofer may use different methods, such as patching, nailing, gluing, or caulking.
For example, if a shingle is cracked or torn, the roofer may use roofing cement or sealant to fill and secure the gap. If a shingle is missing or beyond repair, the roofer may remove it and install a new one that matches the color and style of the existing shingles.
4. Reinforce or Replace Any Damaged Decking
The fourth step is to reinforce or replace any damaged decking on the roof. If the decking is sagging or warped due to water damage or structural stress, the roofer may use metal braces or wood planks to support it. If the decking is rotten due to moisture infiltration, the roofer may cut out and remove the affected area and install a new piece of decking that fits snugly with the surrounding components.
5. Install a Movable Flap
The fifth step is to install a movable flap or other wind-resistant features on the roof to prevent it from being lifted up again by a tornado. A movable flap is a piece of metal attached to the roof seam and can be raised or lowered depending on the wind direction and speed. When a tornado approaches, the flap can be lowered to create downward pressure on the roof and stabilize it against the upward force of the wind. Following these steps, a roofer can repair a roof and make it safe and functional again.