Not all roofs are created the same. While many people have asphalt or shingle roofs, other types exist, which can be a little more challenging when it comes to repair work. As you will discover, repairing unique roof types is possible but because you would be working with a different kind of material it is imperative to understand the right and wrong way of accomplishing things. We wanted to focus in this article on roofs made from copper and EPDM rubber roofs, which have increased in popularity over the years.
First, we will start by talking about repairing unique roof types associated with copper. Roofs made from this material are gorgeous, and actually much stronger and more durable than most people realize. However, the most common problem is that over time, copper develops a green color that is known as patina. When this change in color is even, it looks nice but when it is uneven, it can make the roof look cheap and dirty. For this reason, many people prefer to keep a copper roof cleaned so patina is eliminated.
Because repairing unique roof types such as this requires the use of chemicals, make sure you always have on long pants, long sleeves, protective work gloves, thick boots, and protective eyewear. In fact, with some of the chemicals being caustic, a respirator is highly recommended or at minimum, a thick face mask to protect the nose and mouth. You would begin by placing eight cups of distilled water into a bucket and then slowly, add three cups of phosphoric acid and one-half cup of nitric acid. To make sure the solution is properly mixed use a pH testing strip. Then, you want to add one-half cup of standard baking flour at a time so the mixture thickens. That way, as you go through the process of repairing unique roof types such as copper, the substance would stay in place.
In another bucket, mix six cups of warm water with one cup of baking soda. Once on the roof, you would start with the thickened mixture and with a heavy duty sponge, apply it to the copper. Allow this to sit for about two minutes, followed by using a second heavy duty sponge soaked in the water and baking soda to wipe it up. With a garden hose, rinse the shingles and then use another clean sponge soaked with water and baking soda to reapply for more the neutralizing solution. Next, ammonium oxalate would be applied with a sponge, followed by rinsing again with the garden hose. Once you have completed an area about six foot by six foot, wipe dry and then wipe mineral spirits onto the copper shingles. For extra shine, you could then apply Carnuba wax if wanted.
We also wanted to address repairing unique roof types such as EPDM rubber. These roofs are extremely durable and while they can sustain some damage, overall they need little work. Now, when repairing unique roof types such as this, it is imperative that the outside temperature be between 35 and 40 degrees so adhesive will stick. The most common type of problem is the seams coming loose. In this case, you would begin by cleaning the area with a cloth and warm water. Once dry, clean the damaged area with household rubbing alcohol. The goal is to remove any old adhesive so if needed, you can also use a good cleaning solvent.
Next, apply the appropriate type of roofing adhesive with a paint brush and after drying for five minutes you would put the rubber piece back into the proper position. We suggest you use a wood or rubber coated roller to push the roofing piece firmly into place. This adhesive would need to dry a full 24 hours, after which time you would simply make sure it had taken. If not, the process would need to be repeated but this time, using more adhesive.
