Peel-and-stick flashing tape actually saved my butt last fall when we had that surprise thunderstorm. I used it around a vent boot and it held up way better than the spray stuff, which just turned gummy and peeled off. Not pretty, but at least my living room stayed dry.
Not pretty, but at least my living room stayed dry.
That’s basically my story too—except I tried that black roof cement in a caulk tube first, and it just made a mess. Ended up using the flashing tape over the top and it actually held through a couple more storms. My house is older, so I’m always nervous about water sneaking in somewhere new. Has anyone tried those roof patch kits that come in a bucket? Wondering if they’re any better for bigger spots or if it’s just more mess.
I’ve used those bucket patch kits a couple times—honestly, they’re a mixed bag. For a bigger spot, they do cover more area than the caulk tubes, but they can get messy if you’re not careful. The stuff is super thick and sticky, and if you don’t prep the surface well (clean, dry, maybe even rough it up a bit), it won’t stick right. I’ve had better luck with them on flat or low-slope roofs than steep ones. Still, nothing beats a proper repair when you get the chance... but sometimes you just need to keep the rain out for now.
You nailed it about surface prep—if there’s even a hint of dust or damp, those bucket patches just peel right off after the first rain. Had a memorable one last spring: patched a low spot on my old shed roof in a hurry, didn’t bother roughing up the tar paper, and sure enough, water found its way under the patch within a week. On steep slopes, gravity just works against you—patch slides or sags unless you really work it in. I’ve sometimes used a tarp and some 2x4s as a “quick and dirty” fix until I could get proper shingles down. Not pretty, but it kept the tools dry when it mattered.
