How Do I Waterproof a Gable?
What is a gable roof?
A gable roof is the type of roof that makes a triangle shape. Gables come in different types. You can have a combination, on the sides and the front or rear. Gable roofs have different pitches, some with low slope and some with high slopes, depending on the location you live. If you are living somewhere in the northern hemisphere, you will find greater pitches of gable roofs because of the snow; to prevent them from collecting on the roof. Also, what may come into play with the advantage of a gable roof is the ample space which can be used as a loft.
A licensed remodelling contractor or roofer will let you understand the different pitches and designs of gable roofs. Roofers at Birmingham has all the answers to your gable roof improvement and maintenance.
Gable roofs’ identity goes a long way from being the most commonly used roof shape in many parts of the world, as they are classic and efficient in cold climates and even those in the temperate zone. It is easy to spot if a roof is a gable because it consists of two major sections opposingly sloped with each other, which both meet at the ridge, the highest point of the roof.
Why is waterproofing needed?
Whether you have a gable, a hip roof, or any other type of roofing, waterproofing is critical for the overall protection expected from a roof. Besides, the primary purpose of the roof is to protect property and human lives against water, wind, and any harm.
In any building, too much humidity is often the primary cause of the roof’s damage. Water can lead to significant growth of molds into the roof’s layers and will stay there slowly damaging essential roof components. If the roof’s foundation has been compromised with high humidity, your property is at stake.
More reasons why you need your roof to be waterproofed
- Prevents damage from leaks—leaks are significant culprits of roof damage. Most of the time, you can’t see them as they crawl and seep into the roof layers, along the walls and ceilings. Before you knew it, leaks have impacted the integrity of the roof’s membrane, which starts from the attic, disintegrating the insulation, the rafters, building molds and holes on wood materials until your home’s foundation is affected. But if your roof is properly waterproofed, leaks have no way to get in, keeping all the things inside your home dry (including furniture, carpets, etc.) and functional.
- Extends the life of the roof—waterproofing is essential for the life of your roof. If it’s covered with a waterproofing coat, it is protected against the effects of an environmental hazard.
- Saves energy and money—waterproofing keeps you away from spending on frequent maintenance and repairs. Since the roof is in good condition, there’s no reason to pay for unnecessary costs. Besides, waterproofing makes the roof energy efficient. So, on scorching days, you don’t need to spend too much on air conditioning.
How you keep the roof membranes of the gable roof dry?
To ensure your roof performs to its function, do the following tips:
- Unclutter dead leaves, twigs, and tree branches.
- If the trees are too close to the roof or near its edges, cut or trim the tree occasionally.
- Ensure that gutters are not blocked with any debris.
- Check for broken, curled, or missing tiles and then replace them with new ones.
- Inspect for seams and cracks along the flashing and cover to prevent leaks.
- Choose tile materials that are durable against heavy rains and snow.
- Insulate the attic.
Vent fan, 
Gable with several skylights.
To make sure that your gable roof is watertight, take advantage of the pros it gives. For example, since gable roofs have a high-angled slope, they are excellent in shedding off the water and allow water to drain fast, leaving no room for standing water or snow. This way, you need to check how the flashings are installed to ensure that no water will get in through the seams.
Efficient flashing: a technique in waterproofing your gable roof
While water drains fast in a gable roof, you may want to check the roof’s flashing and the gutter if they are efficient in driving away dripping water beneath the roof. Any intersecting point in the roof is a spot where water can seep in. So be watchful. These weak spots can be protected from flashing.
Flashing is all the more needed if your roof has a skylight, chimney, valleys, and vent fans and pipes. Because the way these roof elements are constructed provide more corners, intersections, or points where water can set in. Hence, the flashing material you will use is vital to the performance of the roof to keep it watertight.
Efficient flashing for these dormer windows. 
Roof windows create more corners and points for leaks.
The gable roof’s finished layer makes it waterproof. Each layer of the gable roof is constructed from the bottom to the last layer on top, which consists of the tiles, placed overlapping with each other to drive water away quickly. Hence, from the down below, every material should be installed properly.
Finally, ensure that your gable roof is inspected by a professional roofer, especially before the days of storms and heavy wind. If you think you need more information on roof repairs and maintenance, call our staff here at Birmingham Roofers. We are more than happy to assist you with all your roofing needs.
