Learn how to maintain and repair your garage roof
Author: Barbara Horwitz-Bennett | May 18, 2020
Though it may seem like a low priority, garage roof repair is just as important as regular roof maintenance. In addition to protecting your car, tools and other equipment, a garage that's attached to your house is connected to your home's roof and structural integrity. A damaged garage roof can weaken the exterior shell protecting your property.
Garage Roof Basics
Garage roofs are often designed to match the home's roof, with the same shingles, gutters, flashing and, in some cases, insulation. If your home and garage share a heating or cooling system, then insulation is a must, although thin insulation is often recommended to allow for more storage room.
If the garage is a separate building, or located behind the house in an alleyway, then aesthetics may not be as important. However, if the garage is visible from the street, its roof design can enhance your property's curb appeal.
So, how can you make sure your garage remains in good condition?
Inspect the Roof Regularly
Like your home's roof, the garage roof should be inspected on at least an annual basis. Warning signs that a garage roof repair may be in order include cracked, missing or curling shingles; rusty, buckled, bent or missing flashing; roof valley sagging; and leaking.
Another sign to look out for is damaged edges caused by rainwater dripping down, clinging to the rooftop and soaking into the decking or underlayment. To remedy this problem, install drip edges that allow water to drain without causing damage.
Even a small leak can lead to structural damage if you ignore it for too long. Moisture creeping inside can lead to rotting rafters and support beams. Address any small repairs quickly before they become more widespread problems that require significant repair or even roof replacement.
Use Caution: Call a Pro
One way homeowners can avoid a garage roof repair is carefully removing any debris from the roof's gutters and downspout. Getting rid of any dead leaves, moss or algae will help ensure your garage roof can drain rainwater.
While garage roofs are often closer to the ground than residential roofs, homeowners should resist the urge to do the repair work themselves. Call an experienced local roofing contractor if you feel you can't climb onto the garage to conduct repairs safely, or if you don't have the proper tools such as nail guns and replacement drip edges.
