As a DIYer, there will come a time when the roof of your house will require repairing. It is mainly because roofs are exposed to harsh elements round the clock. Therefore, even the most robust material will give way at some point in time. However, if your roof pointing was done with cement mortar, then it is good to consider repointing the roof immediately. It is because cement mortar is susceptible to weather changes which expose the pointing to faster wear, deterioration and cracking. If you are going to repoint your roof, then you should replace cement mortar with flexible mortar. This article looks that the various reasons why flexible mortar is the right material for a DIY roof repointing.

Expands and Contracts -- One of the most significant disadvantages of cement mortar is that it tends to crack on expanding and contracting. For example, when it is hot, cement mortar pointing will expand, but when the temperatures go down the contraction will cause tiny fissures. Over time, the fissures develop into big cracks that compromise the structural integrity of the roof. It explains why most roofs with cement mortar pointing require constant repairs. Flexible mortar addresses the issue effectively due to its ability to expand and contract quickly regardless of prevailing weather conditions. In hot conditions, the mortar expands, and during wet climate, the flexible mortar contracts without cracking. Once you repoint your roof with flexible mortar, you can be sure that it will last for a long time.

Faster Curing Time -- If you have used cement before, then you know that it does not cure fast -- it might take up to a week for concrete to cure completely. This can be a problem if you are repointing your roof during wet weather because the curing time will be prolonged, thereby affecting the roof tile setting. For instance, if for one reason or another tile move before the cement cures, then the tiles will assume a crooked orientation, thereby giving the roof a ragged look. Flexible mortar, however, cures very fast -- usually in 24 hours -- which ensures that tiles remain in the right position and orientation. However, it is vital to apply flexible mortar on a dry day because the mortar will lose its effectiveness and smoothness if it gets into contact with water.

Greater Adhesion Properties -- When compared to cement mortar, flexible mortar is stronger, and this can be attributed to its exceptional adhesion properties. It might explain why sand-cement mortar pointing is used in areas with low wind speeds. If cement mortar is used in high wind areas, then additional support fixtures such as clips are required. Flexible mortar's superior adhesive properties allow it to be used in high wind areas without any propping. Moreover, flexible mortar is considered the best for multi-story buildings with difficult-to-access roofing because few repairs are required.

For more information on roof repointing, contact your local roofing service today.