Patch Up Your Attic
This entry was posted on Jun 24, 2014 by speedy-bedRoof Repairs - The roof over our head is something we all sometimes take for granted, and unless we experience problems we tend to forget to check it is in good condition, however with routine inspection we can help to identify any potential problems, and possibly prevent severe damage occurring.
Leaks in roof - Various conditions such as the felt slipping, or flashing around the pipe of chimney separating from the roof,can cause roof leaks, and the source can be difficult to detect. When it is not practical to climb on the roof to repair the leak, such as the winter months, you can repair a leaky roof temporarily, from the inside.
Firstly locate the source from inside the attic space, there maybe dark areas caused by moisture, wet areas, or light from the outside. When you have identified the leak it is advisable to mark the leak with chalk, as when you go to carry out a permanent repair the source of the leak will be much easier to identify.
You should allow the wet areas to dry before attempting any roof repairs, and then apply a patch to the underside of the roof with a putty knife. Use a caulking gun to apply caulk to seal any holes that appear in the roof. Use the putty knife or your finger to spread the caulk around, to cover the hole.
Remember that repairing a roof leak from the inside is a temporary fix only, and the final fix should be made as early as possible when the weather permits.
Animals –Attics are an ideal environment for animals to reside which can not only bring nuisance noises from above, but can cause major damage to wiring, and the structure if not identified, and corrected.
Noises from the attic such as thumping, and scurrying are a good indication of animal activity. Other signs of possible inhabitation of wildlife to look out for when inspecting the attic space include animal droppings, chewed wires, gnawed boards and nests.
Below are some preventive measures you can take to help avoid animals from residing in your attic; however you must ensure to check there are no live animals currently in the attic as preventive measures can also trap them inside resulting in possible additional damage.
Live Animals – either trap and release or contact a qualified professional, as animals such as bats are legally protected, and it is illegal to disturb a bat in roost, or destroy a bats roosting place.
Install vent covers, and or chimney caps to help prevent animals from entering attic space
Trim or remove tree limbs and branches to restrict access to roof area
Insect Infestation - is most likely caused by attraction to food, textiles, or wood stored in attic. Deep cleaning and use of amateur insecticides will help keep insects under control. However, dependent on the severity it maybe necessary to contact a professional to completely eradicate the infestation by stopping the life cycle.
All the above tips can help identify possible problems that could cause damage in the future, so don’t wait until the Christmas decorations need to come down from your attic, inspect it regularly. A quick check could save you money, and avoid stress, in the future!
For further information on attic patch ups, please do not hesitate to contact Speedy Plastics and Resins on local number (0844) 8586670, and our team will be delighted to help.
0844 8586 670
