Your roof is your home’s top defense against the elements. Although all roofing materials are designed to protect your home for years, they could use a little help in the form of a waterproof roof sealant.
Continue reading to learn more about weatherproofing your roof and how you waterproof a roof.
Why is roof waterproofing a necessity?
Even if your roof was recently installed, you’ll still need to make sure it’s been waterproofed. Here are the top reasons to ensure your roof is waterproof:
- Increase roof lifespan: Sealing your roof is one of the top ways to extend its lifespan. Roof sealants take a beating from hail and heavy rainfall so that your shingles don’t have to. You can rest easy knowing your roof will last for decades when it has a professionally-installed sealant.
- Prevent structural damage: Any water that seeps into a leaky roof can slowly erode the wood under your roof. If left unaddressed, the wood will crumble away, leading to massive structural damage and costly repairs. Sealing your roof and replacing shingles as needed both go a long way in avoiding any structural damage.
- Maintain visual appearance: Even if your roof isn’t structurally compromised, it still looks shoddy if the shingles are cracked or damaged. Since it protects the shingles from taking a beating, a waterproof sealant will ensure your roof looks great for years.
How to waterproof a roof
Now that we’ve covered why roof waterproofing is a necessity, let’s get into how it’s done. These are the steps a roofing contractor takes to ensure your roof is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws its way:
- Add a water-repellent layer: The top way to protect your roof is by adding a water-repellent layer on top of the existing roofing material. While this layer is more commonly used on flat roofs, it’s a great option for angled roofs made of all different roofing materials. These sealants can be made of polyurethane, silicone, acrylic or liquid rubber and provide long-lasting protection against rain and extreme heat.
- Cover seams with tape: Your roofing contractor should also cover any seams on your roof with roof deck tape. Taping the seams is an excellent way to keep rainwater out, and it’s also beneficial in reducing air from coming into your attic or letting your inside air out.
- Replace damaged shingles: Waterproofing work doesn’t stop once your roof is installed. You still need to make sure to repair or replace any damaged tiles or shingles. Roof leaks most often occur when rainwater is able to seep into the roof deck through damaged shingles. Hire a roofing professional to inspect your roof once a year to ensure everything is in perfect condition.
Is your roof in good condition?
If it’s been a while since you’ve had a roof inspection, now’s a great time to call our team at Winter Springs Roofing & Repair. We’ll assess your roof’s condition and make any necessary repairs ASAP. Contact us today to get an estimate or to learn more about why roof waterproofing is a necessity.