Do-it-yourself slate roof repair. How to fix a crack in a slate roof How to fix a transition in a slate roof bend

It is known that the restoration of damage to the roof is troublesome and far from being as simple as it might seem at first glance, and when it comes to repairing slate, repairing holes and cracks in the asbestos-cement sheet, hands drop so much the result of the repair is unpredictable. Nevertheless, slate repair technologies exist and are successfully used in practice. As the classics say, nothing is impossible, all that is required is patience and a little accuracy in work.

Causes of cracks and holes in slate

In order to choose the right way to repair damage, first of all, you need to understand the causes and conditions for the occurrence of a crack or hole. This will help seal the cracks in the slate on the roof so that the problem does not reappear after a short period of time.

Slate is rightly considered a very capricious, brittle and even brittle material, so there are quite a few reasons for the formation of cracks:

• Technological marriage, such slate is also called overdried. Due to the fact that in the process of manufacturing the sheet, the hydration of the cement base took place under conditions of lack of moisture, the material turned out to be too brittle. Such a slate cracks easily even under a small load, this is a marriage, and its repair does not make sense;
• Incorrect slate installation. In this case, part of the wave of the sheet is on the roof without relying on the rail. A crack can appear if you carelessly step on the slate or drop a heavy tool;
• Illiterate installation of fasteners. If, during the installation of a slate roof, nails are beaten into a dry sheet without drilling a hole, then a very long and dangerous crack can form, and even a small hole;
• Inept cutting of slate sheet. The most difficult operation when cutting material is to make a hole for a pipe, especially in a situation where you have to cut close to the edge or the last wave. A hole in the slate from a pipe can be patched up only by installing a double patch.

It is clear that extremely careful handling of the slate sheet reduces the risk of cracking, but it is not possible to completely avoid the threat of pricking holes in the slate. The slate holds a static load well, but can easily break from the impact of a dropped electric hammer or screwdriver.

For your information! The likelihood of future repairs can only be reduced if the material is carefully inspected for surface defects before being lifted onto the roof.

It will be useful to even lightly tap the sheet with a rubber mallet. If there is a defect or a hidden crack, then it is quite possible to determine its location by low sound. Such a sheet is sent to patches, it's easier than laying it on the roof, or after a couple of years looking for a way to repair or repair a leak in the roof.

It saves that poor quality slate, with possible cracks, is visible to the naked eye. Usually, roofers do not even recommend lifting material with unevenly broken off rather than cut edges, a spotted or heavily dusty surface onto the roof. Repairing off-grade slate is a thankless task.

How to fix a hole in a slate roof

On the other hand, even if the pack is guaranteed quality material I got a sheet with a small crack, this is not a reason to panic. It is always possible to close a crack in the slate from the inside, from the wrong side. Especially in conditions "on the ground" it is much easier to do this than on the roof. You can patch or patch holes in the slate small size, for example, from nails or repair fasteners, but in this case it will be necessary to soberly assess the nature of the damage and the possibilities further use sheet.

To repair a slate roof in a domestic environment, the following methods are used:

• The crack is sealed with a viscous and elastic material with a good level of adhesion to the asbestos-cement surface. Subject to the repair rules, the crack does not let moisture through on the roof and does not increase in size;
• Lay a patch of slate. This is the only real way to patch up a hole in a slate roof without resorting to replacing the sheet;
• Concreting of the damaged area. In this way, a relatively small sector of slate can be repaired; it is used for the most difficult cases;
• Blocking a crack or hole with foam. This is rather a temporary measure that allows you to close a hole for a short time, for example, in winter or in rainy weather. As soon as possible, it will be necessary to carry out a full repair of the roof.

It is easier to work with a crack than with a hole, it is enough to find the causes and carefully seal the damage. Another thing, if you need to patch a hole in the slate on the roof. In addition to the adhesive mass or binder, you will need to choose a patch material that would be similar in properties to slate and easy to process. Usually, thin sheet metal, asbestos or basalt fiber is used to repair small damage.

concrete mortar

This is the most affordable option repair holes of any size. Cement and sand can be found in any household, so you can close up a hole in the slate on the roof in just half an hour. A wooden formwork box is being prepared for repair, it can also be made in the form of a ring from a strip of the tread of an old car chamber.

The place of damage or a hole is carefully cut to size so that the improvised formwork can be brought under the slate and fixed. Next, a concrete solution is poured, and a patch from a larger piece of slate is placed on the hole. Sometimes the edges of the repair patch are painted over with oil or rubber paint.

Butyl rubber waterproof tape

The popularity of butyl rubber repair films is incredibly high, since almost any crack can be repaired with elastic self-adhesive tape, from plumbing to glass on a balcony.

The tape is sold in the form of a reel, like adhesive tape, but, unlike construction and household strips, BC has high strength and good adhesion. In fact, this is the best option in a situation where the slate has burst, and you need to close the crack within five minutes.

For repairs, it is enough to cut off a piece of tape of the required length and stick several layers in such a way as to block the leakage of water on the roof through the cracks. If conditions permit, then the place of the sticker should be smeared with acrylic paint or any nitro-glue. Butyl rubber adheres well to a smooth surface, but on a rough asbestos-cement coating it can peel off in the first rain. Therefore, the edges of the crack before sealing have to be painted over.

Moisture resistant nitrocellulose adhesive

Despite the convenience and relative simplicity, the use of expensive butyl rubber tape is not always justified. Firstly, this is an expensive material, the price of a coil can reach 12-15 EUR. Secondly, its use is reasonable for cases where the crack is located on a critical section of the roof, and, in addition to the tightness of the coating, the purpose of the repair is to keep the slate wave in position.

For simple cases, for example, a crack appeared on the surface of the slate directly above the wooden plank of the crate, you can do with ordinary nitrocellulose glue.

A good adhesive can repair a cracked slate faster and cheaper than expensive butyl rubber. For repair, the adhesive mass is divided into two parts:

• The first half is diluted with acetone to a liquid state;
• A slate saw cut is added to the second part - chips and dust obtained when cutting a sheet with a grinder.

The liquid fraction is treated with a crack in several stages, dried and a thick adhesive mass is applied, after which a tape of construction tape is glued. In the same way, you can cover up all the cracks in the slate on the roof, if the size of the damage does not exceed a few centimeters.

Bituminous mastic

Before the advent of repair adhesives and polymer materials bitumen and roofing material were actively used to repair all existing damage to the slate roof. This is not to say that bituminous compounds provide the highest quality of repair, but they are easy to use, affordable and do not require special preparation before use.

Advice! To repair slate, it is better to use ready-made liquid bituminous mastic.

Any options with resin melts and solid bitumen require increased accuracy, since a crack when the slate is heated can not only increase, but also lead to splitting of the whole sheet.

With the help of bituminous mastic it is convenient to apply repair patches. To fix a hole in a slate roof, just do the following:

• Cut a rectangular patch from a repair slate sheet;
• Lubricate the edges of the hole on the roof and the wrong side of the patch with a primer and one layer of mastic;
• Dry the prepared materials, apply bituminous waterproofing again and put the patch on the place of repair.

If the angle of inclination of the slope is large enough, then the slate patch must be tied with wire to the base of the roof or to the nearest support. After a couple of days, the seams are re-stained with mastic. With the help of small pieces of roofing material and mastic, it is relatively easy to patch up nail holes in the slate. True, this must be done from the wrong side, even before laying the material on the roof of the building.

Cement-asbestos mortar

The sealing of a slate roof with repair mixtures based on cement and asbestos is considered the most correct in terms of the structure of the slate. Today, repairs using cement-asbestos mortars are considered outdated and unsafe, since you have to work with chrysotile fiber.

It is not difficult to cover up a crack on the slate with a mortar, you just need to apply a small amount of the repair mixture to the surface of the damaged section of the roof and cover it with a film for a couple of days from rain and wind. After setting the solution, a patch is obtained, which in properties resembles a slate material, therefore liquid asbestos cement is used to repair the most complex and severe damage to the roof.

To date, there is no real alternative that can replace the solution. Polymers and resins have not yet been developed, with the help of which it is possible to ensure the sealing of cracks in slate with a guarantee for 60-70 years of service.

The preparation of the repair asbestos-cement mixture is carried out in the following order:

• In a metal container of 10-12 liters, it is possible in a galvanized bucket, asbestos fiber is pre-soaked for at least a day. For 5 liters of water, 3-4 kg of fiber is taken. After a day, the soaked powder turns into a gel-like substance;
• Cement grade 400, approximately 3-4 kg, is added to the resulting gel, and stirred by hand with a trowel until a homogeneous mass is obtained.

The mixture should be used within 3-4 hours, preferably in calm, dry weather. The quality of a slate roof repair depends on the brand of cement and the extent of the damage.

Polyurethane foam and epoxy resin

The use of building polyurethane foam greatly simplifies the process of sealing any cracks and damage, and especially holes. If, due to careless handling, a through break has formed - a crack, or the worst thing is the appearance of a hole, then with the help of PPU it is possible to reliably, and most importantly, quickly fix a piece of slate of almost any size.

The technique for using polyurethane foam is very simple. The place of damage or the formation of a hole is moistened with water, both on the surface of the roof and in the space under the slate. Next blow out required amount foam from the wrong side of the sheet so that the resulting layer of polyurethane foam fixes the edges of the hole. After 30 minutes, you can close the damage with a patch using the same polyurethane as an adhesive.

Foam materials are ideal for repairing breaks and large holes, but foam is too viscous to repair cracks. For these purposes, the best epoxy resin. It will only be necessary to add a thinner so that the glue penetrates the crack better. After processing with an adhesive mass, the damage line must be closed with a patch of film or thin foil.

Chalk and drying oil

This is an old, well-known recipe for sealing gaps and cracks in the windows and walls of a building. The mixture can be used to repair cracks in slate. Thirty years ago, chalk, more often tooth powder, mixed to a paste, filled up the gaps between the glass and the window frame.

The quality of the repair of cracks and holes turned out to be low, so various auxiliary ingredients were added to the mixture, most often cement, casein glue or oil paint. The only advantage of such a "sealant" is that it is convenient to seal the gaps between wooden beam and asbestos cement sheet. The putty adheres equally well to both materials, and over the course of a day hardens to the state of a stone.

Waterproofing coating composition

Usage liquid waterproofing based on acrylic or butyl-styrene rubber makes repairs as easy as possible. With the help of a brush, a knife and a metal brush, you can repair cracks of any length and size.

Thin and long damages are expanded and cleaned of debris, after which a primer and a thin layer of waterproofing are applied. holes large sizes can be patched up with several layers of polyester fabric glued with a smear like papier-mâché.

Finished putties

You can also repair a crack in the slate roofing with the help of a putty mass. Best results are obtained with polyester, epoxy and acrylic fillers with fiberglass fillers.

All other compositions based on modified cellulose and water-dispersion polymers for repairing cracks and holes are not used due to their high sensitivity to temperature and humidity changes.

How to fix a hole in a slate roof

In order to fulfill quality repair slate, without removing the sheet from the roof, you can use the simplest items and things that can be found in almost any car enthusiast's garage. To fix a hole in the roof country house, required:

• Manual brace with a thin drill 4-5 mm;
• Thin copper or annealed steel wire with a diameter of 2 mm;
• A liter of gasoline;
• Remains of bituminous canvas, resin or a piece of raw rubber from a first-aid kit;
• Hammer, chisel and a dozen nails;
• Oil paint.

Before proceeding with the repair of the roof, you need to prepare rubber-bitumen glue. To do this, we dissolve bitumen and rubber in gasoline to obtain a viscous adhesive mass.

Advice! A hole in a slate roof can simply be sewn up with wire, but first you will need to cut a patch for repairs. It can be a piece of slate or, in extreme cases, any material with a wavy profile.

In order to fix the patch over the hole, you will need to drill 10-12 thin holes along the contour of the lining and the damaged area on the slate. Next, we thread the wire and pour homemade rubber glue to close the gaps on the roof. After a day, it is necessary to cover the drilling points with bitumen-rubber mass, always from the outside of the roof covering.

Sometimes masters try to check the quality of the repair of the hole by spilling water on the patch. If the patch is glued securely, then leakage will be minimal. In this way, it will not be possible to seal the roof slate “tightly”, there will always be a couple of small holes. Their position is determined by drops of water. To close the gaps, you need to cover the entire patch with paint.

Repairing a crack in slate is much easier:

• Pre-drill holes at the ends of the crack. This allows you to limit the spread and increase of damage;
• With a chisel and a hammer, the crack line is expanded by a couple of millimeters, after which bitumen-rubber glue is poured and covered with a strip of plastic film.

For your information! If the crack is large and threatens the integrity of the sheet, then the edges can be pulled together with wire, as in the case of installing a repair patch.

Such repairs will provide the slate with a few more years of life on the roof of the cottage. Of course, this is just a temporary measure, and it cannot replace professional repairs.

How not to repair a slate roof

Asbestos-cement sheet coating is extremely sensitive to temperature differences, therefore, high-temperature melts based on ceresin, resin and basalt powder are not used to seal cracks. These materials are used to repair cracks in concrete roofs, to seal holes and joints in panels and slabs.

A lot of problems arise with sealing damage with epoxy and pure resin. At low temperatures in severe frost, the materials become covered with cracks and gradually peel out of the seam.

Prevention of destruction

The durability of the roofing depends primarily on how correctly the slate is laid on the roof. Since asbestos-cement sheets are nailed directly onto wooden slats crates, then water leakage or waterlogging of the wood can lift the slate and even break off the nails. To avoid this, the slats must be treated with water-repellent impregnation.

Most often, cracks and holes in slate appear due to improper driving of nails. It is best to hammer fasteners into the sheet after the hole has been drilled. If it is not possible to hit nails according to the rules, then the place on the slate surface must be punched with a punch and moistened.

Experts say that the cause of the breakdown is most often the negligent attitude of the owners to the roof.

Conclusion

Asbestos-cement roofing is remarkable in that any repair of slate, repairing holes and cracks, upsetting nails or sewing up an edge, does not require special equipment and knowledge. The quality of work, despite the apparent complexity, depends on the type of materials used and the accuracy of the repair worker. According to statistics, a slate roof gets repaired once every 10-15 years, even with perfect roofing. Therefore, in addition to adhesive materials, it will be useful to have at least one ladder and wooden stairs with base board.

Slate has always been considered one of the most popular roofing materials of all. This is easily explained - it is affordable for everyone, simple and understandable in installation, unpretentious in maintenance, strong and durable enough. Therefore, the vast majority of private houses in Russia, despite the diversity of more modern materials, yet has

However, with all the positive qualities of this material, despite the strength of the asbestos fibers that make it up in combination with cement filling, slate sheets cannot “boast” of high resistance to accentuated mechanical loads, and natural exposure is slowly “aging” them. Therefore, over time, cracks or even serious holes can form on the roofing, as a result of which the roof will begin to leak. Replacing an entire roof covering is an expensive and time-consuming undertaking, which is why many homeowners resort to renovations.

Repair of slate: how to close holes and cracks - this is how the question is often raised by homeowners if there are obvious signs of a roof leaking. To choose the right, optimally suited for a particular case, the method of putting the roof in order, you need to consider some of the most popular technological methods. This is what this publication is about.

The main reasons for the destruction of slate

Slate is attractive because this material has clear advantages over other coatings. For example, such a roof, unlike steel coatings, is not subject to corrosion, is highly resistant to moisture, tolerates temperature changes well, practically does not give significant linear expansion, and is almost completely indifferent to the influence of ultraviolet rays. However, it still needs to be repaired from time to time.

Slate is still not eternal - it decays, becomes covered with cracks, chips can form along the edges

Before proceeding to the description of technological methods for performing repair work, it is necessary for clarity to determine the possible causes of defects. With this information, it is quite possible that it will be possible to prevent such damage simply by paying attention to the prevention and proper care of the slate.

So, on the slate may appear for the following reasons:

• Most often, these are some kind of shock loads, for example, a large hail or large tree branches falling onto the roof surface. This also includes inaccurate, incorrect movement on the roof surface.

In order not to damage the slate during roofing or repair work, it is necessary to secure it by laying a flooring of boards on top, which will increase the supporting area and thereby reduce the pressure on the coating.

For roofing or repair work on slopes of great steepness, over 20 ÷ 25 °, especially in the area or upper part of the slate roof, it is necessary to have a special mobile ladder, which is fixed by the ridge with a special fastener.

• The second reason is the appearance and development on the surface of the slate of colonies of the simplest plants, which are fixed on it, and slowly but steadily destroy the structure of the material. Lichens and mosses especially love the rough surface of the roof. Having fixed in one place, they first grow in size, and then multiply by spores and over the entire surface of the roof. Moss grows into the joints of slate sheets and thereby begins to lift them, which is why during rain water is able to freely fall under the coating. If the moss has chosen a place at the bottom of the wave, then it can delay the normal flow of water, which also leads to the roof leaking.

These phenomena usually occur on the north side of the roof, where the sun is not enough time, or on the roof, which has a slight slope, due to which moisture is retained on it, contributing to the growth of such plant colonies. In addition to the fact that the coating is destroyed and the roof begins to leak, the whole building as a whole looks sloppy and not aesthetically pleasing.

If mossy colonies have already settled on the roof, but there is a desire to try to save the roof, avoiding its replacement, then it is necessary to free the slate from this "garden". This process can be done in three ways:

- mechanical, using an iron brush;

- using water high pressure;

- chemical, by spraying the roof with special herbicidal compounds.

• The reason for the dilapidation of slate can be quite a banal reason - a long service life. Unfortunately, not all slate produced today is of the proper quality, since often in its manufacture, in order to reduce production costs, not only GOSTs, but even less “demanding” specifications are not fully observed. As a result, the sheets of such a slate coating turn out to be brittle, and, not withstanding even minor blows, crack or even split along the entire length. Non-compliance with technological rules can be allowed at various stages of the slate production process, for example:

- The solution for the manufacture of slate was made in violation of the recipe - the proportions of the constituent ingredients were not observed.

— Roofing material produced on handicraft equipment.

- Insufficient quality processing of slate sheets.

- Reduction of the period of full maturation of the material - it must be at least 28 ÷ 30 days from the date of manufacture.

Unfortunately, it has been noticed that products of the "old school" serve for more than a dozen years, and modern slate is often only enough for 12-15 years. Conclusion - when buying a material, you should pay increased attention to the reputation of the manufacturer and the obligations provided by him.

• From standing water around chimneys and ventilation pipes, and skylights, cracking of sheets of material can also occur, especially with a sharp drop in temperature. Therefore, such problem areas require enhanced sealing and ensuring the free flow of water.
• As mentioned above, a slight slope of the roof slope and stagnation of water on it can also contribute to the cracking of the material. And stagnant water very often becomes the result of a banal accumulation of dirt or fallen leaves, that is, a kind of damming of the waves.
• The reason for the damage may also be that the installation of slate sheets was carried out in violation of the established technology of this process, and this may cause the coating to experience excessive internal stresses.
• To fix the material to the crate, ordinary nails were used or rubber gaskets were not used. In this case, cracks will certainly appear over time.
• Too small holes were drilled for driving slate nails, which, if the temperature changes and the material expands, will also lead to damage to the coating sheets. Therefore, when drilling holes, it must be borne in mind that slate nails must enter them freely. But, at the same time, the holes should not be too large, otherwise leaks will occur.
• Snow also adds load to the roof, and not only with its considerable weight, but also with the formation of ice in the lower part of the slope, near the eaves. In spring days or during the thaw period, the snow begins to thaw, and water flows into the lower part of the slope, and in the evening the air temperature drops, and ice forms on the edge of the slate, which leads to crumbling of the roofing material in this area.

If the slate in this place is destroyed, then through the cracks formed, water will fall on the crate, insulation, rafters and mauerlat, on bearing walls, which will lead to the formation of fungus and the gradual decomposition of wood. Therefore, prudent homeowners, in order to preserve all the materials and elements of the roof, often arrange cable heating in the lower part of the slope and in the drainage channels, which in winter period if necessary, it turns on, preventing the formation of frost

Now, having considered the main causes of slate damage, taking into account what possibilities exist to avoid them, let us dwell on how to identify damage that has appeared.

Detection of roofing defects

On the rough surface of slate laid on truss system, it is almost impossible to see small chips or microscopic cracks, therefore, special attention should be paid to some alarming signs that the roof needs repair:

• If there is at least a small leak, even imperceptible to the eye, then soon it will manifest itself by the appearance of mold spots in the corners or at the joints of the ceiling and walls, the occurrence bad smell dampness.
• If thermal insulation material is not fixed on the roof from the inside, then even the smallest crack is easy to detect by climbing up to the attic after rain. The leak will show itself more dark spot compared to the rest of the interior.

Now you need to focus on which areas of the roof most often need to be repaired, as this information will come in handy when looking for damage to the roofing.

1. First of all, it is necessary to follow the edges of the slate, facing the eaves. They are recommended to be examined every spring. If cracks have formed on the edges, then they will not be difficult to detect - sometimes you don’t even have to climb the stairs for this, as they can be seen from below.
2. Moss may appear on the roof without cracks or chips, but you should not wait until it grows and takes up the entire surface of the slate. It is on a neglected roof after cleaning that a very sad picture with a lot of damage is very often found. In addition, it is much easier and cheaper to remove several islands of emerging moss than to subsequently clean the entire wavy surface.
3. Cracks can form at the crest of a wave or at its lowest point. It is more difficult to detect the latter, since they are invisible at first glance. How they can be identified has been described above.
4. On the crest of a wave, the cracks are mainly formed along the line where the slate nails are driven in, and they are immediately visible to the naked eye. However, if these cracks are already so evident that they are visible visually, repairs should be urgently started.

Having examined the roof in all respects, it is necessary to make a decision on how it will be more rational to carry out repairs.

• If significant chips are found along the edge of the lower sheets, then one or all sheets of the first row should probably be replaced, especially since the roof structure allows this to be done. However, it must be taken into account that the nails will have to be removed with all care so as not to damage the bottom edge of the next row, since it is he who overlaps from above to the bottom.

If it is not possible to replace the sheets, then the integrity of the edge can be achieved by putting a kind of patch on the inside of the sheet, but it is impossible to leave the coating in a damaged state, since in this case leaks cannot be avoided.

• If the crack went along the crest of the slate wave, then it must be repaired with patches by applying them from the inside and outside. Usually, a piece of galvanized iron sheet bent in the shape of a wave is placed under such a crack from the inside, and a special roofing tape is applied on top of the damage.

• If the crack has gone across the slate sheet, then you can’t do without replacing it. You will have to carefully dismantle it and install a new one.

Methods of repair work on sealing damaged areas of slate

So, knowing all the nuances of the occurrence of defects in this roofing material and the detection of damage on it, it is necessary to proceed to the consideration of repair work.

There are several effective ways sealing cracks using traditional and special modern materials. But anyway, everything repair work must be carried out on a roof surface that is well cleaned of dirt, debris, any growths, foreign objects, etc.

Whatever approach is chosen for repair work, one should never forget to carefully move along the slate if the damage was found not at the edge of the roof, but at a height. To avoid additional damage to the slate on gable roof they use a ladder-ladder, and on a shed - flooring from boards that will help to evenly distribute the weight of a person on the surface.

The first way - using ordinary concrete mortar

Repairing slate with cement and sand can be called the simplest and most accessible way, if you do not take into account that the process will take place at a height - this always complicates the work.

The solution for repairing slate is made from cement and sand in proportions of 1: 2, and fine-grained washed sand and cement grade M-500 are used for it. Instead of this solution, it is quite possible to use high-quality tile adhesive for external facade work (you can also find another name for complex bases), which can withstand high humidity and temperature extremes. The glue has a fine consistency and good adhesion to the surface of the slate, as it is also made on a cement basis.

The solution must have the consistency soft dough and adhere well to the surface. To increase the adhesion of materials, the slate in the repair area should be moistened. If the damage is too large, then a lining of galvanized roofing steel should be made under it, bending a piece of sheet in the shape of a wave and slipping it under a crack or pothole. This device will give an additional guarantee of a good fit of the solution to the asbestos concrete surface.

The solution is applied to the surface with a spatula. On the surface there should be a not too thick layer of it, which will not hold water much if the crack is in the bottom of the wave. The surface of the applied solution should be even - for this it is slightly moistened and smoothed with a rubber-gloved hand.

After the final drying of the patch, it should be carefully primed, and then painted with a waterproof slate paint for outdoor use.

The second way - using butyl rubber sealing tape

Butyl rubber waterproof tape is used not only for repair work, but also for sealing the joints between sheets, as well as for waterproofing the fit of the roofing to ventilation and chimneys.

The surface of the tape is made of non-woven material, thanks to which the applied patch can be coated with paint desired color. Working with such material is quite simple, and repairs are carried out in the following sequence:

• The slate area requiring repair must be cleaned and degreased. This can be done with white spirit, acetone or other organic solvents.
• Further, a piece of tape of the required length is cut off from the roll (so that the entire crack is closed, plus along its edges the tape enters the undamaged area by another 50 mm).
• The adhesive layer of the tape is covered with a protective film. The tape is applied to the crack and, in the course of its gluing, this protective substrate is removed from it sequentially, very carefully. There is no need to hurry - you can not allow wrinkling, wrinkling, sticking of the tape.
• The tape is carefully pressed against the surface of the sheet, as it should fit as tightly as possible, without the slightest gaps, to the slate.
• So that the patches do not stand out on the roof, the roof can be completely covered with paint or you can choose a shade to match the patch to match the slate. But painting over the patches on top with high-quality waterproof paint is a must.

It should be noted that not rolls can be found on sale, but ready-made butyl rubber patches of various sizes.

In addition, for a more reliable repair of wide cracks in the slate, in addition to butyl patches, it is recommended to use fiberglass, which acts as a reinforcing layer that gives greater strength to the sealed seam.

If work is carried out using a sickle, then for the bottom layer glued to the damage, use a double-sided tape or patch, that is, a coating with a protective substrate on both sides. In this case, the work is carried out in the following sequence:

• Butyl tape is first glued onto the fat-free slate, in the same way as it was shown above - only the bottom substrate is carefully removed. The tape is also carefully smoothed over the repaired area.
• Then the top protective coating is removed from it.
• After that, a cut-out piece of sickle tape is fixed on top of the tape.
• Then, a tape is fixed on the serpyanka with one-sided application of an adhesive composition and a non-woven surface on the front side.
• The last step is coloring.

The third way - using bituminous mastics

Repair with the help can be carried out in two ways - hot and cold.

bituminous mastic

1. If repair work is carried out with hot bitumen, then it must first be prepared - this is done as follows:

• Bitumen is put into the old bucket.
• A fire is kindled, which is fenced with bricks so that a bucket of bitumen can be placed on them.

• The contents of the bucket are periodically stirred so that it does not burn to the bottom or ignite. The composition must be heated to 160 degrees.
• If the work will be carried out at a negative temperature outside, then it is recommended to add about 10% of oil waste from the total volume to the bitumen. It will give the composition the missing elasticity, which will help to avoid cracking the patch. This is especially important if the edge of the roof is being repaired, as this area is considered the most problematic. In this case, it is best to additionally reinforce the patch with fiberglass mesh.
• You can do without reinforcement if you stick a waterproofing material of the TechnoNIKOL type (Euroroofing material), which is usually used to cover flat roofs, on hot bitumen.

Due to the elasticity of the material, it will perfectly take the shape of slate waves. If it is not possible to press it tightly against the applied mastic, then it will have to be heated with a burner or a building hair dryer.

Bitumen is applied to the degreased damaged area of ​​the roof with a brush or spatula. Then reinforcement is laid on the heated mass. After the first bitumen layer has set, another bituminous layer is applied on top of the sickle mesh.

2. When using ready-made waterproofing bituminous mastic, its heating is not required.

It will be enough to mix the contents well and apply on a previously degreased and primed slate surface.

On the first layer of mastic, you can also lay a sickle mesh, which additionally fastens the two edges of the sheet, which were separated by a crack.

The number of layers can be any, but the thicker it is, the longer the period of its drying. Therefore, the most the best option it is considered as follows: two layers of mastic 1.5 mm thick, between which reinforcing material will be laid.

The fourth method - using cement-asbestos mortar

Repair of slate in a similar way is carried out using a mixture of cement with the addition of asbestos fibers and PVA glue. Bulk asbestos can be made by grinding a piece of asbestos sheet, cord, or strips that are used when laying brick ovens. When grinding this material, it is imperative to secure Airways a respirator or at least a medical mask, and protect your eyes with goggles.

For the manufacture of the mixture, materials are taken in the following proportions: 3 parts of asbestos, 2 parts of cement, and PVA glue and water are diluted 1: 1. All components are mixed until the mixture reaches the consistency of thick sour cream. The composition is prepared immediately before its use.

Slate for applying this composition must be well cleaned and dried. After it dries, the damaged area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe sheet is carefully primed with a solution consisting of PVA and water, taken in a ratio of 1: 3. Such a primer is applied in two layers, waiting for each of them to dry.

Then, using a spatula, the asbestos-cement composition is applied to the damaged area of ​​\u200b\u200bslate treated with a primer. If a crack is closed in the lower part of the wave, then the layer should be as thin as possible, approximately 1 ÷ 1.5 mm. In the case when the defect is located on the crest, the layer thickness is of no fundamental importance. In the latter case, it is very important to fill the resulting crack throughout the entire thickness of the slate. The applied material must be well leveled, since its surface must be smooth.

Fifth way - using polyurethane foam and epoxy resin

We can say that this method was invented by home craftsmen, since repairs are carried out using mounting foam and epoxy. To perform work using these materials, you will need a balloon of mounting foam, a sealant and a two-component epoxy adhesive complex, the latter will serve as a waterproofing for the foam. This method is called "three-layer", and the repair itself is carried out in several stages:

• Preparatory stage consists in cleaning and degreasing the repaired area. If the crack or gap in the slate is large enough, the edges of the slate inside this hole should be cleaned and processed using, for example, a file.
• The next step is to fill the existing gap (hole) mounting foam. After that, you should wait for a pause necessary for the expansion and polymerization of the foam, about a day. It should also be noted here that if a very large flaw has formed in the slate, then it is recommended to put a piece of roofing material or galvanized metal under it, but it must be well pressed from below to the slate, otherwise the foam, expanding, will push it away.
• After the foam dries, its excess is cut off in a waveform.
• On top of the hardened and cut foam, a sealant is applied in a thin layer. It is necessary to ensure that it fills all the pores on the surface of the material. After that, the sealant is left to dry completely. The curing and hardening time of the sealant, which must be allowed to pass before proceeding to further operations, is usually indicated on the packaging of the material.

• The third, final stage is the coating of the repaired surface with an epoxy composition, which will finally smooth the surface and it will merge into a single whole with the slate. The cured epoxy will cover the repair patch with a durable protective layer.

This repair method is quite complicated and expensive. But after complete hardening of the repaired area, it gains high strength and is guaranteed to eliminate the problem of roof leaks.

If you need to repair a slate sheet located in the middle of the slope and split along the entire length, then you can get by with only an epoxy composition, which fills the entire crack completely. In this case, first, from the bottom side of the sheet, from the side of the attic, a mounting waterproof tape is glued onto the crack, and only after that the gap is completely, as tightly as possible, filled with epoxy.

The sixth way - chalk + drying oil

This composition for repairing cracks in slate can also be called folk, however, it is absolutely not suitable for sealing large holes, therefore, if such a one has formed, then such a technique can be immediately rejected.

The repair mixture in this case is made from chalk and drying oil. The mixture should eventually resemble the consistency of thick honey. Therefore, chalk is added to the drying oil, so to speak, “by eye”, in small portions, each of which is thoroughly mixed. The mixing process is carried out until the desired density of the solution is reached.

The finished mixture is covered with a pre-cleaned crack, and then leveled. After the mixture dries, the crack is densely covered with moisture-proof paint. On this, work on repairing slate in a similar way can be considered completed.

The seventh way is to use moisture-resistant nitro-based glue

In this method of repairing roofing material, a moisture-resistant nitrocellulose adhesive is used, for example, "Emalit". The defect is repaired as follows:

• The inner side of the slate sheet, which goes into the attic, is well cleaned with a metal brush and washed with water, then completely dried.
• Dry slate in places of damage is sealed with a cloth. To do this, you can use a regular thick cloth or fiberglass. The patch should have a size that exceeds the size of the hole or crack by 40 ÷ 50 mm on each side.
• The fabric is impregnated with glue and superimposed on the damaged area, well pressed and smoothed.
• After the materials have been bonded and the glue has set, another glue is applied on top of the patch.
• After the complete readiness of the inner patch, the hole or crack is filled from the outside of the sheet concrete mortar or tile adhesive for facade work. The surface of the filled hole must be well leveled.
• If a crack is closed, then one hole is drilled at its beginning and end, which are filled with an elastic sealant, and then self-tapping screws are screwed into them. This must be done so that the crack does not develop further.

The eighth method - using special waterproofing coating compositions

Excellent for repairing slate sheets are ready-made cement-polymer-based waterproofing coatings, sold ready-made in buckets, or in the form of dry mixes that require dilution. Instructions for their preparation can always be found on the packaging.

In any case, it is very easy to work with such compositions, since they have a fine-grained composition that fits perfectly on the repaired material due to its high adhesive qualities. Repair work is carried out in the following order:

• The surface around the damage, cleaned and degreased with the help of one of the solvents, as well as the inner walls of the crack, are dried well.
• Then, the waterproofing mixture is diluted with water, and the surface to be repaired is primed with it. The primer should also dry well.
• The next step is to apply a thick mixture prepared for repair using a spatula or gun.
• After six hours, the crack must be covered with fiberglass, and on top of this patch, apply another layer of waterproofing compound and level it well.

If a certain method of repair is chosen, it would be reasonable to ask about the weather forecast for the coming days for which work is planned. Repair of the roof should be carried out in dry, calm, but better - not sunny, cloudy weather, since any mixture should dry out at medium temperatures. Therefore, the best time for repair work will be the end of summer or the beginning of autumn, when it is quite possible to choose the days that are suitable for the forecasts.

In addition, it must be remembered that even very good and high-quality patches will only provide temporary protection against roof leakage. The problem is that the roofing material and various repair compounds- different coefficients of linear expansion and density. Therefore, sealed flaws can only withstand a few cycles of strong temperature changes, and then leaks will appear again. Such repairs are needed so that homeowners have time to select and purchase new roofing. If it is possible to close the roof immediately, then if serious damage occurs, you should not resort to repairing it - it is better to immediately resolve the issue radically.

Protecting the slate from further damage

If on a roof that has been in use for a long time, cracks have appeared from time to time, then patching or filling the damage with sealant will not be enough, since the destruction will continue anyway. In this case, in addition to completely replacing the coating with a new one, there are several more ways to stop the process of rapid aging of the slate roof.

• First of all, the roof surface is well cleaned, washed and dried. If there are no moss growths on the slate, then the coating can simply be cleaned well with a broom. In any case, whatever cleaning is carried out, the airways of the master during this operation must be well protected - asbestos dust is extremely harmful.

• Further, it is recommended that the entire surface of the roof be well primed and dried.

• Further, the slate roof is completely covered with rubber paint, which creates an elastic waterproofing layer on the surface.

• Another way to save an aging slate roof is to cover it completely with "risolin".

"Rizolin" is a self-adhesive flexible material with a foil surface, based on fiberglass impregnated with bitumen-polymer compounds with targeted additives that improve the performance of this coating.

This material is specially designed for flooring on roofing surfaces of any complexity, it reliably waterproofs the roof. "Rizolin" has excellent adhesion to any surface, and plasticity allows it to take the form of slate waves.

The adhesive side is protected by an anti-adhesive backing, which is removed from the material before it is installed on the roof. After removing the protective layer, the sheets are pressed against the surface of the slate and reliably adhere to it.

This material has another important advantage - due to the fact that the outer layer is a foil, "rizolin" prevents overheating of the roof and closes it from direct ultraviolet rays. Thereby old slate as it were “preserved”, and in a house with a roof covered with “rizolin”, it is never hot.

In conclusion, I would like to recall that in 1999 the European Commission adopted a directive banning the use of asbestos and products made from it from 2005 in the countries of the European Union. This decision was made on the basis of studies and the discovery that asbestos can cause serious harm to human health. Therefore, if it's time to repair a slate roof, maybe consider this a reason to completely replace the coating with one of the modern roofing materials, and not to repair cracks and holes?

And in conclusion - an interesting video in which the master shares his secret of preparing glue for repairing a slate roof

Video: homemade glue for slate repair

Slate - the material for roofing is quite good and practical. And relatively inexpensive, in comparison with other, more modern and stylish coatings. But he has one good minus; he's too fragile. Especially after some time has passed. As the slate on the roof ages, cracks and holes appear in it. In order to avoid these troubles, it is necessary, at least once every six months (in the spring, after the snow melts and in the fall, after the leaves from the trees fly around), to clean the roof with a broom or brush. It is even more necessary if trees grow near the building. If this is not done, fallen leaves, needles and small branches from trees rot on the coating, and green moss and fungus appear and begin to spread there, as a result of which the slate decays and cracks and holes form on it.

By following these simple steps, you will significantly extend the life of this coating. However, sooner or later, cracks in the slate will still appear. And here I want to advise one of the ways how to eliminate a crack, or a small hole in a slate sheet, if it is not possible to replace it.

It will take

• Gasoline (I used AI-92 brand).
• Styrofoam.
• Small nylon mesh (glass cloth can be used).
• Brush.
• Scissors.
• Solvent.
• Rag.
• Hard brush.

Cooking glue

First, let's prepare our homemade glue, not forgetting the precautions; make sure that there is no open fire nearby, because we will work with gasoline! And try not to inhale gasoline vapors - this can affect your well-being not for the better!
It will be more convenient to work, in my opinion, if the glue is in some kind of dish, with a wide neck, like a plastic mayonnaise bucket. So, let's pour two hundred and fifty milligrams of gasoline into a measuring cup (the higher its octane number, the easier and faster the foam will dissolve in it) and pour it into a bucket.

I used 92 gasoline, but since it is quite stale (I drained it from an old motorcycle), and probably ran out of gas, I had to splash another fifty milligrams of 646 grade thinner into it.

If you are using fresh gasoline 92nd or 95th, it is not necessary to pour solvent into it - it will do an excellent job with the foam. Now we break the foam into pieces of suitable size, and send it to a bucket of gasoline. The foam is dissolved there almost instantly, effectively hissing and bubbling.

We continue to dissolve the pieces of foam until the resulting glue acquires a gray consistency, similar to organic wallpaper paste; the same viscous and thick enough to stay on the brush and, later, on the nylon mesh.

Next, put everything you need in a bag; a bucket with freshly prepared glue, a nylon mesh, scissors, a brush, a solvent, a rag and climb onto the roof, to a damaged place on the slate, not forgetting, again, about precautions.

We repair slate

Now it is necessary to clean the place of gluing (fields, five centimeters from the edges of the crack) with a stiff brush, from debris, dust and sand. Next, we moisten the cloth with a solvent and wipe the places cleaned with a brush where the glue will lie.

On the treated edges of the crack, apply a layer of glue with a brush.

We lay a nylon mesh on a crack with glued edges. Top it all off with glue.

Now you need to wait two to three hours for the glue to dry a little. Yes, and catch your breath during this time from gasoline vapors! After the indicated time, we rise back, apply a fresh layer of glue to the slightly dried glue and lay the mesh with the second layer in order to fix the result, so to speak. And now on top again, thoroughly, and not sparing the glue, we apply the last layer of glue. Styrofoam dissolved in gasoline will tightly cling to the slate, so that no bad weather will tear it off and wash it away! It is possible, if desired, until it starts to dry out, sprinkle the whole thing on top with dry cement so that the repaired section of the roof does not catch the eye if it is in a conspicuous place. This completes our work. The rest is a matter of time. Seven to nine hours will be enough to weather the gasoline vapors from the adhesive and further harden it. Do not forget to find out the weather forecast for the next day before starting work, since excessive moisture will obviously not benefit such work. Such repairs will extend the life of the slate by at least another couple of years. Well, or until it becomes possible to change the old coating to a new one.

Once upon a time, slate roofing was considered perhaps the most versatile: affordable, durable and unpretentious. Cheap and cheerful, as they say. But for all the strength of asbestos fibers, such sheets are not very resistant to mechanical stress: over time, many small cracks always appear on them, through which moisture easily seeps through.

Fortunately, the slate roof at least does not corrode, like metal, which is covered rusty spots from the slightest scratches, and yet repairs will still have to be done from time to time. So how to close a crack in the slate and stop the further destruction of other sheets? Now we will understand everything in more detail.

1. from impact loads. From careless walking on the roof.
2. From microcracks due to falling tree branches.
3. From mosses, lichens and other misfortunes. Moss and lichens, which are especially fond of slate, not only deprive it of its aesthetics, but also slowly destroy it!
4. From time. Unfortunately, the service life of a slate roof is not long, and after 10-12 years the first cracks and holes appear.
5. From constantly stagnant rainwater. Any roof, and not only slate, has weak spots around skylights and pipes. Immediately pay attention to these elements - it is not difficult to seal them.
6. The angle of the roof is not suitable for slate roofing.
7. The laying of slate was carried out with certain violations, and the material constantly experiences excessive stress. It’s also bad if during installation you used ordinary nails without rubber gaskets to fasten the sheets - then you can’t do without cracks.
8. Careless transportation and storage. Such defects may not be detected immediately, but they will immediately become noticeable from walking on them on the roof.
9. Sharp temperature changes. Believe me, any asbestos-cement material does not like this.
10. Due to disproportionately small holes for screws or nails. Do not forget that metal is characterized by seasonal expansion, and therefore you need to leave a little more space for such fastening (but not so that rainwater flows). That's why rubber gaskets are needed.

And finally, snow can add new problems. The fact is that the slate roof does not have such smoothness as the metal one, and snow constantly lingers on it.

And just a little sun rays to flood all this snow cap from below - as a result, the melted water flows down to the cornice, where it meets a new layer of snow (the cornice is always colder than the roof over the living quarters).

Here, the melt water freezes again and, in the form of ice, is already destroying not only slate sheets, but also drainage system. In addition, all this mass, under natural expansion from low temperature, is clogged under the sheets and from there, melting, it falls directly onto the rafters or into the insulation.

Also, often the cause of cracks in slate lies in its incorrect manufacturing technology. And at several stages:

• During the preparation of the mortar, less cement was added than the factory recipe required (guess why).
• Gross violations of the production technology of slate sheets (handicraft production).
• Short asbestos fibers were used in the slate (and this is the manufacturer's decision).
• Poor quality processing of finished slate sheets (lack of control).
• Reduction of material opening period (a need 28 days).

And now let's talk about how and how to fix holes and cracks on the slate roof of the house.

How to detect coating defects?

Agree that it is quite difficult to notice new defects or cracks on an outwardly heterogeneous slate roof, while on a smooth seam roof or corrugated board it is easy to do even from a neighboring building. Therefore, pay attention to such alarming signs that your roof needs to be urgently repaired:

The fact is that unnoticed leaks are quite insidious: the rafters are immediately saturated with moisture, the thermal insulation becomes damp and deteriorates, and the ceiling needs repair. Go to the attic if you have such suspicions: if you smell dampness, then there is a problem.

And individual mold spots indicate that there is a crack somewhere in the slate, but so far it does not make itself felt, except for small leaks. Check the under roof space of the slate roof also after every downpour.

We put a "diagnosis" on the cracks of the sheets

If the cracks went along the protruding waves of slate, then the bookmarks must be applied both from below and from above.

Cracks in the lower waves require the most complex solutions. After all, it is here that water will constantly stagnate, and it is rather difficult to achieve the necessary tightness.

But let's look first at the crack itself - a lot depends on this:

1. A crack that goes along the top wave of slate(it is the easiest to spot), usually does not leak due to the fact that the water under it does not stagnate. This is the most harmless crack, and it is easy to repair it - just bend the galvanized iron and slip it under the slate, and cover the crack itself with a special roofing tape.
2. A crack that goes along the bottom wave, the most dangerous - here you can not do without leaks. Use sealant, patch and folded sheet.
3. A crack that went across the slate sheet the most dangerous! And leaks alone are indispensable here - the crack will expand and move on to subsequent waves in the future.

Have you decided on your next renovation? Proceed with caution! Remember that in many countries of the world this roof covering is completely prohibited due to harm to health, and therefore when dismantling old sheets or machining protect yourself from asbestos fibers. Here's how professional teams do it:

How to fix cracks and holes in slate?

Before applying any patch, it is important to completely clean the repaired surface of debris and moss, and then wash it with a powerful jet of water. But how to close up holes and holes in the slate on the roof available materials and novelties of the construction market:

Method number 1. Cement and sand

Prepare a mixture of one part dry cement and two sifted sand. Fill with water and stir until desired consistency. close up. Let the cracks dry well and paint them in a suitable color.

Method number 2. Butyl rubber tape

A special butyl rubber tape is also good as a patch for holes and cracks. What is good, its surface is made of non-woven material, so that it is good to paint such a patch in the desired shade.

And it's easy to work with:

• Step 1. Degrease the repaired area of ​​the slate sheet with gasoline.
• Step 2 Remove the protective strip from the tape and stick it to the damaged area.
• Step 3. Paint in color so that your roof does not look "patched".

Ready-made butyl patches are also used for repairs:

To seal cracks in slate, sickle is also used - a tape that gives strength to the putty joint of sheets. To do this, a layer of bitumen is first applied to the crack, then a sickle is applied to it, and then everything is again smeared with bitumen.

Or use the more expensive one modern version tapes that are designed specifically for the repair of such roofs:

Method number 3. hot bitumen

It is not difficult to prepare bituminous mastic on a fire:

1. We kindle a fire, put two bricks on the sides.
2. We take an old bucket, put a piece of bitumen in it.
3. We put the bucket on the fire and stir gently so that nothing catches fire.

If you work in sub-zero temperatures, add 10% waste to the bitumen to give it elasticity and avoid cracking the mastic. Especially if you process the edges of slate sheets:

Hot bitumen is also suitable for sealing small cracks:

But remember that any putty gives only a temporary effect. The problem with using traditional slate putties is that this roofing material little pliable for expansion, while putties usually have a completely different coefficient.

That's why after a few cycles of temperature fluctuations, leakage problems return again. And sometimes it is much easier and more reliable to simply replace the defective sheet.

Method number 4. Putty from asbestos, cement and PVA

First, we take asbestos in finished form. If you didn’t manage to get one, just grate it from a piece of slate. Be sure to protect your respiratory tract during this work!

So, to prepare the mixture, you will need to mix 2 parts of cement, 3 asbestos and a liquid solution of PVA glue and water, taken equally. Stir the mixture until it thickens like sour cream.

If you cleaned part of the slate before repairing, wait until it dries completely. Next, apply the prepared mixture, treat with a solution of PVA and water (now the ratio is 1: 3) and apply 2 more layers of the mixture.

Method number 5. Finished putties

For the repair of such a roof, ready-made mixtures are well suited, which include waterproofing materials. You need to work with them like this:

• Step 1. We clean the repaired surface well.
• Step 2. Degrease the area with a solvent or acetone, dry well.
• Step 3. We prime the surface with a repair mixture, only diluted to a liquid state.
• Step 4. We apply the mixture with a special gun or spatula.
• Step 5. After 6 hours, cover with fiberglass and put a new layer of the mixture.

Please note that it is necessary to carry out such repairs on a slate roof in dry and cloudy weather so that the necessary components in the mixtures dry out slowly.

Method number 6. Foam and epoxy

They also close up cracks and holes in the slate with liquid foam, but for this you will have to purchase a whole bottle. Practiced among home craftsmen and the so-called "three-layer" method:

• Step 1. We clean and degrease the area.
• Step 2. We close the crack with mounting foam.
• Step 3. Dry or just leave for a day.
• Step 4. Apply sealant.
• Step 5. Cover it all with resin.

Epoxy resin is also suitable for repairing a slate roof, which is much less destroyed under ultraviolet rays than polystyrene.

This is an expensive but reliable method to cope with small problems, although it is inconvenient to use it on an inclined plane. So, if the slate sheet is split along its entire length, fasten the wavy joints with epoxy glue. But first, fix them together from below with mounting tape, and only then fill the gap from above.

Method number 7. Tin patch

This method is suitable for repairing large holes and cracks in a slate roof. So, step by step:

• Step 1. Cut out a patch from tin, roll it into a tube.
• Step 2. We push it into the hole so that a hole can be made in the middle of the patch.
• Step 3. Insert a bolt with a gasket into the hole and press it.
• Step 4 Fill gaps with building sealant.

The repair of a slate roof must be approached seriously. If the patch will allow even a little water to pass further, the rafters will eventually become completely unusable.

Method number 8. Drying oil with chalk

This is one of the most proven folk methods. So, we clean the cracks, carefully cover it up, and paint it after drying. oil paint. That's all!

Method number 9. Moisture resistant glue

• Step 1. We wash the sheets well with ordinary water, three of them with a stiff brush.
• Step 2. We are waiting for the slate to dry and seal each hole with a piece of dense fabric so that its edges extend beyond the hole by about 3-4 cm. To do this, we impregnate the patch with moisture-resistant glue.
• Step 3. On top of the patch, once again apply a layer of glue (Emalit).
• Step 4 Turn over the damaged sheet and fill the hole with concrete.
• Step 5. Once the mortar has set, glue another patch.
• Step 6 At the end of the crack, we drill a hole and seal it with an elastic sealant.

Method number 10. Aluminium foil

Ordinary aluminum foil will also help to cope with cracks:

• Step 1. Remove the old fasteners from the sheet.
• Step 2. Round off the corners of the patch.
• Step 3. Fasten the foil and press it with a self-tapping screw.
• Step 4 If the slate on your roof is colored, repaint the patch in the same color.

In extreme cases, it is easier to replace any section of a slate roof than to repair it. Then cut out the necessary elements from the new sheets:

Often, the ridge of a slate roof also becomes unusable, which is not difficult to replace with metal or wood:

How to protect the slate from further destruction?

The situation is worse if the roof began to burst in different places. This is usually indicative of mounting errors at the time, and normal repair slate on the roof will only give a temporary effect.

It is urgent to stop the process of destruction:

• Method number 1. To prevent cracking, temporarily place a strip of cloth soaked in paint over the crack.
• Method number 2. Also, so that the crack does not go further, a hole is drilled in it and fixed with a self-tapping screw. Moreover, such a hole must be sealed with an additional roofing sealant, which will tighten, like rubber, the edges of the hole.

But, if in the next decade you are not going to change the entire roof, then approach the issue of repair more globally:

Or like this:

That's all! Choose the method for which you already have materials and you know how to work with them.

Record dated: 7-10-2016

Friends, have a good Sunday! Now it is summer, the rains, if they happen, are especially plentiful, although they are not long, so the roof withstands such tests, though it can reveal weak areas. Those places where the roof leaks, it is better to start repairing now, without waiting for prolonged autumn rains. Today we will talk about how to repair the roof yourself. I will share with you tips from professional roofers.

When I worked as a designer, by the nature of my work I often had to communicate with builders, read the relevant literature, so the recommendations will be firsthand.

Precipitation always helps to identify problems with the roof at an early stage. It often happens that visually everything seems solid, solid, without any problems. And the past rain will clearly indicate where the leak appeared in the room and what place on the roof should be given special attention.

It is imperative to repair the roof before the onset of winter, otherwise frost and moisture will destroy the roofing material all winter. Now thaws are interspersed with frosts, and this is the most aggressive effect on the roof. The ice bursts, tears the roofing material, then thaws, and now the hole is even larger, which means that the subsequent freezing of the ice will increase the size of the hole even more.

If your roof is multi-profile, then the most reasonable solution is to call professionals and delegate repairs to them. If the roof is simpler, the most common gable, then you can solve the problem of leakage with your own hands.

Most common roof leaks

According to roofers, most often leaks occur at the exit points of chimneys and ventilation pipes, joints with walls, with windows, if they go to the roof. Also, a leak can occur anywhere if your roof is old slate. A crack, a chip, a rusted nail - everything can affect the integrity of the structure.

Visual inspection of the roof from the attic

Without waiting for the leak to intensify, visually examine the roof from the attic, pay attention to the change in the color of the crate, if places with darkening, rotting are visible, then the roof needs to be repaired. Of course, it’s not worth climbing onto the roof in rainy weather, but it’s in the rain that it’s best to study the places with a leak, somehow mark them, so that later, on dry land, they can already be repaired.

Rooftop Safety

Any roof slips, even one that does not slip! This is important to understand. You can only work without insurance flat roofs, or roofs with a slight slope. In all other cases, it is recommended to be tied with a safety rope attached to the roof ridge. IN modern houses fastening for such a cable is provided by the roof structure.

If your roof is simple, then a safety wire can be attached to the roof ladder. It has a mount, which is mounted on the skate, and will withstand you in case of emergency. The simplest ladder for the roof looks like this:

Such a staircase can be made directly in front of roofing works from bars. After work, it can either be removed and stored for the future, or disassembled. It is undesirable to leave on the roof after work, as the impact external environment in a couple of years, the wood will become unusable.

Wear shoes with rubber soles, experienced roofers work in sneakers, simple rubber sneakers. They say that this is the best way to feel the roof, and there is practically no slip.

The work often requires a partner, well, if you have a son, or one of your relatives, if only your wife is in reserve, then in this case appoint her to help on earth. You can work alone, but you will have to get off and climb up more often. Well, this is such a job, to some extent creative, as my father says, who, by the way, always does everything himself, without anyone's help. Including work on the roof.

Repairing small cracks

Small cracks can be sealed with waterproof glue, putty, epoxy. This applies to slate roofs, tiled or metal. Ruberoid is better to immediately cover with a new sheet instead of a damaged one. In general, it is best to use roofing felt for a roof only as a draft material, under metal or under slate. By itself, it very quickly, in three seasons, becomes unusable.

My husband's house in the village has to be completely blocked almost every 5 years. There the situation is such that it makes no sense to invest in a new roof, the house is already under 80 years old and, one might say, is living out its years. Therefore, with enviable constancy, it is necessary to reanimate the roof.

Bituminous mastic is used to repair large damage and cracks. Mastic seals seams well, fills spaces and voids. Ideal for roof waterproofing.

The area of ​​damage should be cleaned of dirt, treated with white spirit, allowed to dry, and then proceed to seal. Read more about the termination technology in the instructions for the specific material that you purchase.

Styrofoam Roof Repair Adhesive

Very informative video from Andrey Konovalov. A man shares a recipe for high-quality styrofoam glue dissolved in gasoline and applied to a fiberglass mesh.

Using black screws on the roof

Separately, I would like to tell the story of one summer resident who fastened his metal roof to black self-tapping screws. In this place, experienced builders will probably already distort their faces in a grimace. However, there was such a case. So, these black screws literally rotted in two seasons. As a result, on the third spring, a vigorous gust of wind carefully removed half of the profiled sheet and carried it to the neighboring area.

Here is an example of how to fix the roof is definitely not worth it! For roofing, buy only roofing screws, with rubber washers, or stainless steel roofing nails. Do not save on the roof, since you are already making it from a profiled sheet, then take the right fasteners, and certainly not black self-tapping screws ...

This is my topic today. By the way, we laid our roof on wooden crate, and our roof itself is made of metal. We took cherry color, but now we are convinced that it would be better to take a shiny one from stainless steel. In the heat, the attic warms up so that you can steam! But if it was shiny, then the temperature would certainly be lower. Of course, we wanted beauty, and now we are reaping the fruits of our passion for dark color ...

Okay, that's all for me! All the best to you and that your roof never leaks!