I would limit myself to using materials formulated for roof-to-roof applications and those formulated for driveways. Roofing cement is a strong material, usually made from ground asphalt. It is used to fix holes, leaks and other problems in a roof. Roofing cement is also strongly adhesive, making it popular for reattaching broken shingles or moldings.
It's easy to buy at the hardware store, making it a popular choice for DIY roofing work. What is roofing cement made of? Roofing cement comes in many formulas, but generally consists of a combination of emulsified asphalt, refined mineral alcohols, plasticizing agents and reinforcing fibers. Modern roofing cement will NOT contain asbestos. You can get special forms of roofing cement that can be effectively placed even on a damp surface, although the “regular” style adheres better only to dry surfaces.
Roofing tar is a dark, oily mixture used on flat roofs to repair leaks. It is made from coal tar and petroleum by-products. Coal tar is a dark brown or black residue that is produced during the coal production process. Coal tar must be refined and processed to meet roofing standards.
Several types of common roofing materials are simply incompatible with the ingredients that make up roofing cement. Since roofing tar formulations vary by brand and type, it is important to choose the right product. While roofing cement is an easy solution for many types of roof repairs, there are times when it can cause more damage to the roof. A reliable and honest roofing contractor can easily explain your situation and provide you with the advantages and disadvantages of replacing the roof or using roofing cement to perform a repair.
The use of rolled roofing fabrics, polyester or fiberglass, in addition to roofing cement, adds strength and durability in these situations. Using a roofing cement designed for your situation will result in the best and most durable repairs. In addition to this, most professional roofing companies offer their customers a warranty that will cover damage to the roof in the future. Roofing tar can be removed with a tar remover, but removers can damage certain roof surfaces.
But is it really the best option? Next, we'll share the pros and cons of using roofing cement for DIY repairs. If you are suddenly faced with a problem with the roof, you may be tempted to repair the problem yourself with roofing cement. Because this is quite a large investment and plays such an important role in keeping your family safe, it's wise to consult several roofing companies before choosing one to work with. In most roof repair situations, the use of roofing cement is the fastest and most cost-effective solution.
It should not be used in larger areas of damage without also using rolled roofs or other material to properly cover the damaged area. Roof tiles, roofing paper, nails, masking, and the necessary tools are probably the items you think of. As you can see, roofing cement is multifaceted and can easily solve many problems that may arise in an old roof.
