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Rotten wood on a roof can be a serious issue that needs to be addressed promptly. Here are steps to fix rotten wood on a roof:
1. Assess the damage: Identify the extent of the rot and determine if it has affected the underlying structure.
2. Remove the shingles: Carefully remove the shingles surrounding the rotten wood to expose the damaged area.
3. Cut out the rotten wood: Use a saw or chisel to cut out the rotten wood completely. Make sure to take out all the affected areas.
4. Replace with new wood: Cut a piece of new wood to fit the space and secure it with nails or screws. Ensure it is properly aligned.
5. Seal and protect: Apply a wood sealer or preservative to the new wood to protect it from moisture and future rot.
6. Replace shingles: Place the shingles back in their original position and secure them properly.
Regular roof inspections and maintenance can help prevent wood rot.
Whether you are replacing the entire roof or fixing a small area, it is essential to repair rotten sections of roof decking, also known as sheathing, to ensure a strong and watertight structure. Roof decking, which is attached to the roof’s trusses, supports roofing materials such as felt paper and shingles, while also strengthening the home’s structure and protecting it from wind. Replacing the decayed roof boards safeguards the integrity of your home and prevents damage from leaks.
How to Repair Rotted Wood on a Roof
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Identify Dry Rot Roof Damage
If you are only repairing the damaged portion of the roof, you need to assess the extent and location of the damage. Inspect the inside of your home for any signs of leaks. On a rainy day, look for discolored drywall or wood on ceilings, attics, or crawl spaces. Remove drywall and insulation as necessary to locate water stains on the underside of the roof decking. During a reroofing project, examine the decking after removing the shingles and underlayment. Test the stability of water-stained sections by tapping them with a hammer.
Remove the Shingles
Carefully pry up the shingles around the damaged area. Each shingle is typically secured by eight nails: four through the middle just above the tabs and four through the shingle above it. Lift the felt paper underneath the shingles. Progressively uncover all the rotted wood as you work your way up the roof. Preserve the next course of shingles by cautiously removing the second set of four nails. During a reroofing project, start at the peak of the roof and remove all the shingles by prying them up with a pitchfork, gradually moving down the roof.
Remove the Rotted Wood
When replacing roof decking, the first step is to remove the old, decayed section. You may need to cut a little extra to expose enough of the trusses and ensure complete removal of the rotted wood. Adjust the depth of your circular saw to match the thickness of the roof decking. Cut out the damaged area. Use a claw hammer or pry bar to remove any nails and take out the cut piece. Expose at least two trusses so that you can securely attach the replacement wood and make the replacement section stable. If possible, keep the cut-out section intact to facilitate measuring and cutting the replacement piece.
Install the New Roof Decking
Select plywood or oriented strand board that matches the thickness of the wood being replaced. If you were able to keep the removed section intact, measure it. If not, climb onto the roof and measure the opening to cut the replacement piece to the perfect fit. Orient the replacement material so that its grain runs perpendicular to the roof trusses, and cut it to the dimensions of the opening. Place the cut piece into the opening and secure it to the trusses with nails spaced every 4 to 6 inches.
Replace the Underlayment and Shingles
After repairing the hole in the roof plywood, you need to seal the seams and recover the roof. Use bitumen tape to cover the seams between the old and new decking. Lay felt paper on the roof, overlapping the existing paper for optimal coverage. Staple it to the roof decking or nail it with roofing nails that have plastic caps.
After removing the shingles, you are now prepared to replace them. Take the new shingles and slide them beneath the undisturbed top layer. Lift the shingle that is above and nail it down, starting with its center and then through the center of the shingle above it. Keep laying the shingles in the established pattern until the entire repair area is covered.
By fixing rotted wood on your roof, you are ensuring that it remains watertight and prevents any leaks or further damage. Whether you decide to replace the entire roof or just a section, the repairs you make will extend the lifespan of your roof.
