Flat roofs
are sealed with tar and gravel.
Flat roofs cannot be protected with shingles, which must be positioned at an angle in order to be effective. Because of this tar and gravel are used to seal the roof from rain and snow. A tar and gravel roof can be expected to last as long as 20 years, but it will eventually form leaks. When this happens, temporary repairs can be made until the roof can be replaced.
Instructions
1. Locate the source of the leak. Many leaks can flow under the roof before entering the house, so "it's above the living room" isn't accurate enough. Beginning at the lowest point of the roof where water is most likely to pool, sweep and shovel away loose gravel until you find blisters, cracks or other openings in the tar.
2. Cut the roof surface with a utility knife to expose the bad portion. In the case of blisters and other holes, cut a large X over the damage. For cracks, cut a perpendicular line across the crack every few inches.
3. Peel the cut flaps back and allow the inner surface to dry completely. If necessary use rags to clean out any water, mud and other debris from the area.
4. Apply a thick layer of tar under the cut area with a trowel. Once this is done, press the flaps back in place.
5. Spread a layer of tar over the cut area, extending it several inches past the area. Feather the edges into the existing roof.
6. Cut a piece of fiberglass cloth large enough to fit over the repair area.
7. Place the fiberglass onto the tar and press it in place with the trowel, allowing it to saturate until tar begins to seep through the glass mesh.
8. Apply a final thin coat of tar over the fiberglass to seal it in.
9. Replace the gravel over the patch by hand: sweeping it in place may disturb the patch. The gravel protects the tar from sunlight.
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