Roofing repair work runs the gamut of problems, from small patches to major jobs. It's a good idea for customers to have some idea of what these projects entail, when they're appropriate, and when it's time to do something more drastic.
Cracked or Missing Shingles
Unsurprisingly, a roof takes a beating. Shingles often end up damaged by hail, high winds, animals, and even UV exposure. This can lead to cracked shingles, and sometimes they get torn completely off the roof. As long as the problem is discovered quickly, the job usually requires nothing more than replacing the damaged or missing shingles. If it has been let go a long time, though, water can get into the supporting structure and create bigger issues.
Big Holes
Large debris can punch holes into roofs. A roofing repair crew usually has to remove the ragged edges of the hole before it can be fixed. This may require cutting into the decking underneath, replacing it with new plywood, and laying down new felt. If the damage is fairly localized, there's a good chance the contractors can simply cut a square and fill it in with fresh materials. Much like with missing shingles, a lot depends on catching the problem ASAP, otherwise, water damage can lead to worse scenarios.
Small Holes or Cracks
If there is very localized damage, it may be possible to fix the issue with minimal intervention. A roofer can sometimes fill a small hole or crack with either epoxy or roofing cement.
Water Damage
This is one of the potentially trickier problems to address. Water damage often spreads quickly and can undermine a whole roof. This happens because the water softens the plywood that supports the outer materials. In the worst scenario, the water gets into the rafters and joists, and much of the roof will have to be reconstructed. When the problem is caught in time, though, it's not unlike fixing a hole. Keep an eye out for water collecting on the roof because this tends to be the only visible sign early on. Later signs of trouble include staining of walls and ceilings on the inside of the house and even cracking in the foundation. At that point, you may have to worry about larger structural damage.
Fascia
The strips located underneath the edge of the roof sometimes get damaged by weather, birds, or squirrels. Roofers almost always remove and replace the fascia. In some instances, the wooden backing also has to be replaced.
