Several benefits and advantages are available to homeowners who decide to do their own roof repair Los Angeles instead of hiring professionals to do the job. There’s the absolute control over the time and schedule when the repairs will start and end. Then there’s the total control over the result of the project. In addition, there’s the savings on money that would otherwise have been spent for contractors’ fees.

However, do-it-yourself (DIY) roofing repairs in LA are not for everybody. A lot of people mistakenly think installing new roofs involve nothing more than nailing down some shingles on the roof. A properly-installed roof is actually a complex work consisting of various components that are integrated to keep the elements away and protect the structure.

Safety Considerations

Safety is paramount in all kinds of construction work, including roofing installation and repairs. You have to consider several safety issues before deciding to take on this work yourself. One neglected aspect of roof repair is using the correct tools and equipment to do the job. You must also be properly attired such as wearing safety boots and goggles to prevent personal injuries.

It takes professional roofers years of training and experience to learn their trade. They spend years knowing how to safely walk on the roof, handle and install materials properly, identify risks while working on the roof and keep themselves safe, and comply with government regulations.

Roofers spent so much time on the roof that they develop instincts against risks present on the site. They learn how to walk around properly and avoid danger areas while comfortably performing their work.

If you are uncomfortable going up the ladder and walking on high places carrying supply materials, DIY roofing may not be suited for you. Roofing work is physically labor-intensive, particularly if you are going to remove the old roof first before installing new materials.

Risks Against Benefits

One of the reasons homeowners undertake to do DIY roofing repair is to cut down on costs. Contractors’ fees admittedly make up a significant portion of roof installation costs. Estimating the cost of roofing job is not a straightforward method – it involves taking into account different factors such as removing and disposing the old roof, installing new materials, performing structural repairs if necessary, and equipment rental. The roof size, its slope or angle and the kind of roofing materials you will install are also considered.

Homeowners must carefully weigh the relevant risk against the savings and control over the project that they have in deciding whether to repair their own roofs. In case of doubt, consulting and hiring professional roofers will always be the best option.

Concrete roofs are sturdy, affordable and fire-proof. People living in hot places prefer concrete for their roofs because it stays cool longer than other materials even after being exposed in the sun. However, like other construction materials, they need regular maintenance and repair to ensure long years of optimal condition.

In the event of unwanted leaks, you can perform these practical roof repair Los Angeles solutions for leaks:

1. Reposition Concrete Tiles

Concrete roofs are made from either a single pour of concrete to form slab roofs or individual tiles fitted snuggly together to form a tight barrier against water. When leaks appear on the roof, sometimes a relatively-simple remedy is available. Simply reposition the tiles to ensure they perfectly mesh with each other and provide a tight fit for the entire concrete roof. There may be times when cracked tiles have to be replaced. An ocular inspection will let you know which tiles to replace.

2. Paint Over Concrete

A practical way to repair concrete roofs is through the use of latex primer and paint. Apply the primer to the affected area of the roof using a paint roller. This will effectively seal small cracks on the surface. For larger cracks, you must apply a concrete patch first and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours. Wash away dirt from the surface before applying the primer. After it dries, apply paint on the affected surface.

3. Waterproof your Roofs

The most common remedy for leaking concrete roofs is the application of waterproof cement or sealant on the areas of the leak. You can use the sealant to fill the cracks on the surface of the roof to prevent water seepage that could further damage the concrete. Remember that concretes are made of porous materials that ultimately deteriorate over time. Climate conditions also contribute to formation of surface cracks.

4. Search for Leak Source

Water coming from a concrete roof does not automatically mean that the roof itself is damaged and needs repair. The first thing you have to do is thoroughly look for the source of the leak. Check a large area of the roof, including the corners and sides. Never restrict your search on the location of the leak only. Include the plumbing lines in your inspection. A busted pipe is a common source of leak. Fixing a faulty plumbing is less expensive than performing major repairs on your concrete roof.

5. Caulk Cracked Concretes

Cracks develop over time on joints between two concrete slabs that were poured at different times. Cracks also form on concrete tiles because of the porous nature of the material, which retains moisture. Seal the cracks using concrete repair caulks to prevent water from seeping inside and further eroding the material. Before applying the sealing agent, thoroughly remove any debris or the joints by wiping away with brush. Do not forget to re-caulk exposed nails and cracked tiles that you see while repairing major cracks. If done properly, this method can save you hundreds of dollars from roof repairs.