Depending on where you live, you might have to face harsh weather almost constantly. Needless to say, this can cause a lot of damage to your roof and tends to add up. So, for situations like these, you should always have some things on hand to help you fix these damages. However, we should note that this isn’t a perfect fix, and professional help will eventually be needed. But patching the damage up until professionals arrive is still very helpful. So, today we’ll go over 6 things to include in a roofing first aid kit so that you are always prepared.
1. Patches to quickly seal up holes
The first items you should include in a roofing first aid kit are patches. These patches have adhesive on one side, allowing you to quickly cover up a hole. Realistically, you only need a minute to install one of these, so they can even be installed while the harsh weather is still ongoing. These are important because roofing issues can escalate quickly, so getting them patched up quickly is vital. Otherwise, it’s entirely possible that what might have been a minor problem will become something much bigger and more expensive. This is something new homeowners need to know, as they tend to overlook minor roofing issues. This often leads to much bigger problems, especially in areas that see harsh weather more frequently.
2. Sealant to patch up leaks
Sealant is another vital part of a roofing first aid kit. When it gets particularly windy, roofing materials can get shifted around, which causes leaks. Depending on the sealant, it can be either a temporary or permanent fix. You should apply the sealant between roofing components, for example, flashing and valleys. Additionally, sealant can be used as an adhesive for patches if you feel the leak needs additional reinforcement. And while sealant can be used as a permanent fix for the issue, it isn’t good for your roof’s lifespan. Ultimately, you will need to renovate your roof eventually, and if you have to use sealant often, sooner rather than later. However, when renovating the roof, remember to keep your things safe. Thinking about where to store items during a renovation ahead of time is a good idea, and we recommend renting out a short-term storage unit.
3. Tarps for more serious damage
Having heavy-duty tarps on hand is an excellent idea when your roof suffers significant damage. Professionals use tarps to cover up areas being worked on for protection. So, in emergencies, you can use tarps to cover interior areas and protect them from further damage. But this should only be done in emergencies, as tarps can only provide temporary protection. Additionally, keep in mind that tarps can’t handle strong winds well, so they are only viable as a temporary measure. When your roof suffers significant damage, you should immediately call professionals to get the damage fixed. Realistically, you will have to choose a new roof when it suffers substantial damage. Patching up significant damage can be as expensive as replacing your roof, and a patched-up roof lasts much shorter than a new one.
4. Rubber sheets for keeping water out
Rubber sheets effectively cover significant gaps in the roof and completely stop water from coming through. When properly applied, rubber sheets will prevent further damage and, more importantly, protect the interior from water damage. Rubber sheets are impenetrable, making them the perfect choice for emergency repairs. However, we should note that rubber sheets are only as effective as what is used to secure them. If the adhesive used to install them is weak, then the sheet will fall off easily. So, when using rubber sheets, ensure they are adequately secured to the roof. Also, experts from spydermoving.com note that you should move all belongings out of the attic until it’s repaired. Again, emergency repairs are only temporary solutions, so until the roof is fixed, everything in your attic is at risk.
5. Duct tape as an emergency sealant
If you don’t have any proper sealant, duct tape is a good alternative. You can use it for many emergency repairs: sealing loose flashing, securing rubber sheets, and even patching small holes. But it’s important to remember that duct tape doesn’t last very long and is a very temporary solution. Duct tape loses its adhesive properties in a few days, and the elements can speed this up. So, realistically, you should only use duct tape to patch up a problem until you can get proper sealant; if it can hold out until professionals arrive to fix the problem, even better. But it would help if you tried to replace the duct tape with something more powerful quickly, as dealing with such issues promptly is vital for your roof’s lifespan. And in the long run, making your roof last as long as possible should be a priority.
6. Spare shingles
Keeping spare shingles on hand is a very good idea, whether or not you’re dealing with harsh weather. Harsh weather certainly speeds up the process, but shingles will eventually fall off the roof anyway. When this happens, it’s great to have spare shingles on hand to replace the ones that fell. This can effectively prevent any sort of issue which would be caused by missing roof shingles. Of course, replacing roof shingles takes a little bit of know-how. But thankfully, it’s not the hardest thing to learn, and you can safely replace roof shingles by yourself.
6 things to include in a roofing first aid kit – conclusion
Keeping things that can help you patch up your roof in an emergency is a good idea, regardless of whether or not you live in an area that sees harsh weather often. Patching up your roof is vital for avoiding serious damage, so you should always be prepared. We hope that this list of 6 things to include in a roofing first aid kit helps you out, and we wish you a good day.
