The roof is one of the essential parts of your home. It protects you from the elements and keeps your family safe and dry. Moreover, it can keep away pests and all sorts of nasty creatures. However, because of its exposure to the elements, it’s also one of the most damaged parts.
On average, American homes get their roofs replaced every five to ten years. The rate is much higher in states frequented by hail storms and other severe weather conditions. Unfortunately, roof replacement isn’t cheap. It’s one of the most expensive repairs to any home.
The average price is around $8,000, that’s near the overall amount of money the average American household pays for their mortgage. However, some can cost over $10,000. It can depend on your roof’s overall size and the extent of the damage. Experts suggest doing yearly maintenance and repair on your roof to avoid this. The best way to do it without any cost is by doing it yourself.
Here are the five things you need before you repair your roof.
Safety Equipment
Safety will always be the number one priority, especially if you let your family members help you out. First, you will need a robust wire rope and proper rigging. This will ensure you don’t fall off the roof while working. You should also invest in a good pair of gloves, boots, and a helmet. These will protect you from potential injuries.
The following safety equipment you’ll need is a breathing mask. Asphalt shingles and other roofing materials can release harmful chemicals and particles into the air. Naturally, you don’t want to breathe these in, so a mask will ensure that you’re safe from them.
By having this safety equipment, you’re ready for any challenge that your roof can throw at you.
Ladder
Of course, you can’t repair your roof if you can’t get on it. So a ladder is a must-have for any roofing job. You must ensure that the ladder is tall enough to reach the highest point of your roof. It should also be made of sturdy materials so it won’t collapse while you’re on it.
There are different ladders types, so you must choose the best one for the job. For example, an extension ladder is perfect for getting on tall roofs. On the other hand, a step ladder is ideal for short roofs.
If you have some connections in the construction industry, consider renting a man lift instead. It will make your job a lot easier and safer.
Tools for the Job
The next thing you’ll need is a set of tools that can help you with the repair. This list can include a hammer, screwdriver, utility knife, pry bar, and measuring tape. These are just some of the basic tools that you’ll need. If you have more complex repairs, then you might need additional tools.
For example, if you’re dealing with asphalt shingles, you’ll need a special hammer. The head of this hammer is usually flat so that it doesn’t damage the shingles. Meanwhile, if you’re dealing with clay tiles, you’ll need a chisel and mallet. These two will help you remove the damaged tiles without damaging the rest.
Once you have these tools, you’re ready to start your roof repair.
Roofing Materials
The next thing you need is a supply of roofing materials. This can include asphalt shingles, clay tiles, metal sheets, etc. The type of roofing material you’ll need will depend on the kind of roof you have. The most resilient roof materials are slate.
Slate is a natural stone that’s been used for roofing for centuries. It’s very durable and can last for over a hundred years. However, it was also costly. A slate roof can cost twice as much as an asphalt shingle roof.
If you’re on a budget, you can opt for asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in America. They’re also much cheaper than slate, making them an excellent option for budget-conscious homeowners.
You can also choose clay tiles, metal sheets, and more. The type of roofing material you choose will depend on your budget and the level of repair you need to do. They usually have a lifespan of five to ten years.
Choosing a suitable roofing material can be tricky. You need to consider the climate, the style of your home, and your budget. But if you choose the right one, you might never have to repair your roof again.
Repairing your roof can be a daunting task, but it’s one that you can do by yourself with the proper knowledge and equipment. With this equipment ready, you can get started on your roof repair as soon as possible.
