Sometimes we get so carried away by interior renovations and decorations that we forget that the exterior of our home also needs some TLC. Other than repainting the facade and doing minor roof repairs, there are other, more significant things we have to keep in mind. One of those is roof waterproofing. Here is what you need to know.
Why should you do it?
The roof’s surface is constantly exposed to the weather, which is bound to result in some wear and tear. While roofs can last from 15 to over a hundred years depending on the material they are made of, sun, wind, rain and ice can all damage it. This damage can lead to potential leaks which can put the entire structure at risk. Thankfully, manufacturers have found a potential solution. Applying a waterproof sealant to your roof’s surface can protect your whole house.
What type of issue are you facing?
You need to do a thorough inspection of the roof. That way, you can see whether there are any structural and non-structural issues. Are there any missing shingles? Do you have a leak that you can see from the inside of the house? Track it down. Don’t forget to check the flashing as well. Water seepage can easily compromise the primary structure of the house. Moreover, leaks can lead to mold development which causes allergies and other health issues in humans. If you have a flat roof, check if there are any areas where water accumulates after heavy rain. These areas might be more susceptible to damage.
What materials to use?
There are some traditional materials, such as tar felt, brickbats and bituminous treatment, which are a bit outgrown and have some limitations. They might be vulnerable to variations in temperature which can result in cracks. Bricks are quite heavy and can hold water, which again leads to leakage. Furthermore, removing brickbats can be quite damaging for the roof’s surface. A good solution, in this case, would be to opt for a lead roofing since it has proven to provide a good protection when it comes to these situations.
On the other hand, technological advancements now provide us with more innovative solutions. These include primers, sealants and roof waterproofing paints. Finding the right solution can help protect your surface from UV rays. Moreover, you can repair cracks and fix porous slabs with injection grouting. When waterproofing a concrete roof, you can opt for topical or permanent sealers, depending on your needs.
How to do it?
There are two routes you can take here – doing it on your own or hiring professionals.
If you decide to do this yourself, you first need to clean the roof thoroughly as any remaining dirt and debris can cause the sealant to not adhere properly. Then inspect the entire surface of the roof for any cracks and damage. You can use silicone caulk to fill in the holes or cracks. Make sure it is properly sealed and dry before the next step. Now, you should cover all seams with seam tape. Once that is done, you can apply the primer to the entire roof. Wait for it to dry before determining whether you need another coat. The final step is applying the liquid membrane onto the roof. Check the label for detailed instructions.
On the other hand, if you are not entirely confident in your skills, it might be better to leave the job to professionals. Amateurs could leave a tiny spot uncovered and that is often enough to result in leaks. Consider hiring waterproofing leak specialists that can detect leaks and seal your roof without any issues. Moreover, make sure to look for a company that provides guarantees. That way, your roof can last for much longer.
Remember that waterproofing your roof is essential for protecting your entire home. Keep your family safe by avoiding unnecessary diseases and structural issues.