What Is Good for a Swollen Rooftop?

Replacing Boards

• If your rooftop or attic area has boards that have been swollen and warped through moisture or other problems, they need to be replaced before they cause even more damage. Individual boards can be pried up, including their nails, and replaced. If your beams or main structural components are showing the same signs, however, you will need to call in a contractor and create a remodeling plan to fix the issue.

Replacing Other Materials

• Boards are not the only material on your roof that can show signs of buckling and swelling. If you have wooden shakes on the top of your roof, these too can can be damaged. Shingles (wood versions especially but other types as well) can become corroded by wind, rain and exposure to other elements like salt for those who live by the sea. Fixing the roof requires replacing these shakes and shingles.

Moisture Control and Ventilation

• If moisture is causing your problems, you will need to address the issue before more damage can occur. If water is seeping in through the top of the roof, you will need to remodel and add new plastic membranes and layers that keep water from moving under the shingles. (Retiling or installing new shingles can also help solve this problem.) If the moisture is coming from your attic area, ensure proper ventilation and add new roof vents as needed.

Expansion Issues

• For metal rooftops and rooftops that use metal brackets and components, swelling is a sign of expansion. Metal reacts easily to temperature, so it can contract in the winter and expand in the summer. The expansion can often lead to the loosening of metal brackets over time. These requires tightening and replacement if the roofing materials start to loosen.