Your roof plays an important role in protecting your home from weather exposure. Keeping it well maintained can help reduce the risk of issues such as leaks, water ingress and heat loss over time. Tasks such as repairing gutters, sealing small cracks, improving waterproofing or removing moss and algae can contribute to the overall condition of your roof when carried out correctly.
Using products that are suitable for the specific task and applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions can help support effective repairs and maintenance. This DIY Roof Guide is designed to help you address common roofing related challenges and select appropriate solutions for repairing, sealing, cleaning and protecting roof areas.
Select one of the questions below to explore Sika solutions that may be suitable for your particular roofing project.
How to repair gutters?
Sikaseal®-173 is a bitumen sealant designed to repair and seal leaking gutters. It helps stop water leaks at joints, seams and small cracks, restoring a watertight seal.
Open the seal on the top of the cartridge, fit the nozzle and cut it to the desired bead size. Insert the product into the application gun. Apply the sealant into the joint ensuring that it comes into full contact with the sides of the joint and avoiding any air entrapment. As soon as possible after application, tool the sealant firmly against the joint sides to ensure adequate adhesion and a smooth finish.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
Sikaflex®-11 FC Purform® is a versatile adhesive and joint sealant that provides a long-lasting, flexible seal for gutter joints and repairs. It accommodates movement caused by temperature changes while maintaining a strong waterproof bond, making it ideal for more permanent gutter repairs.
Apply masking tape where neat or exact joint lines are required. Prime the surface as recommended in substrate preparation section of the Product Data Sheet. Open the seal on the top of the cartridge or open the end of the foil pack, fit the nozzle and cut it to the desired bead size. Insert the product into the sealant gun. Apply the sealant into the joint ensuring that it comes into full contact with the sides of the joint and avoiding any air entrapment. As soon as possible after application, tool the sealant firmly against the joint sides to ensure adequate adhesion and a smooth finish.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
Sika® Stixall® is a hybrid adhesive and sealant that can be used to repair gutter joints, seal leaks and fix loose sections. It provides strong initial grab and can even be applied to damp surfaces, making it ideal for quick outdoor repairs. It is waterproof and weatherproof, helping to create a durable seal that withstands harsh conditions.
Cut the tip of the cartridge, fix the nozzle, cut it to the desired size and apply with a standard sealant gun.
For gluing lightweight items, apply the adhesive to back of the item in one or two continuous beads and press it immediately into place. For gluing heavy items, apply the adhesive all the way around the edge of the item 30-50 mm from the edge and cover the back with beads of adhesive at 300 mm intervals.
If using as a sealant, first apply masking tape to ensure a neat sealing line. Extrude the product into the joint ensuring that it comes into full contact with the sides of the joint and avoiding any air entrapment. Within 5 minutes of application, tool the sealant firmly against the joint sides to ensure adequate adhesion and a smooth finish. Remove the masking tape immediately after tooling.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to waterproof a roof?
SikaRoof® Liquid Membrane is a polyurethane roof membrane that creates a seamless waterproof membrane that protects roofs from rainwater penetration. It is suitable for flat and pitched roofs. It can be used on new projects or to refurbish an existing leaky roof.
Protect surfaces with tape and plastic wrap prior to application. Stir the product if it has settled or separated on opening, stir it gently to achieve a uniform colour taking care not to overmix. Apply the product with a soft bristle brush or a solvent resistant roller. Generally priming is not required, however for porous or irregular surfaces apply a priming coat of the product at a rate of 0.25-0.3 litres per square metre. Allow the first coat to dry before applying the second coat, refer to the Product Data Sheet for exact drying times according to weather conditions.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
Sika Evercryl® One Coat is a waterproof roof coating that creates an instant, seamless membrane on the roof with just one coat, making it ideal for fast and effective roof waterproofing.
Prepare the roof surface according to the instructions on the Product Data Sheet. Stir the product well before use. Apply the product with a brush in one coat at a rate of 1-2 litres per square metre.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to repair a leaking roof?
Sika® Evercryl® One Coat is a fibre-reinforced waterproof roof coating that is designed to instantly waterproof leaking roofs. It provides immediate protection against water with just one coat.
Prepare the roof surface according to the instructions on the Product Data Sheet. Stir the product well before use. Apply the product with a brush in one coat at a rate of 1-2 litres per square metre.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to remove green growth from a roof?
Sika® MouldBuster is a powerful solution for removing algae, mould and green growth from roof surfaces, helping to restore appearance and protect against regrowth.
Wear suitable protective clothing when diluting and applying e.g. gloves, eye protection and face protection. Do not use the product if rain is expected within 5-6 hours of application. Dilute 1 part Sika® MouldBuster with 4 parts water in a watering can or a low-pressure sprayer. Apply the diluted mix directly onto the affected surface ensuring the entire area is saturated. Leave the solution to dry. The product works over several weeks to kill and remove mould and algae, results will begin to be seen within days. Remove any stubborn growths by lightly brushing them away once dead.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to seal roof joints?
Sikaseal®-173 is a bitumen sealant with very good resistance to UV and weathering providing a durable, weatherproof seal for roof joints.
Open the seal on the top of the cartridge, fit the nozzle and cut it to the desired bead size. Insert the product into the application gun. Apply the sealant into the joint ensuring that it comes into full contact with the sides of the joint and avoiding any air entrapment. As soon as possible after application, tool the sealant firmly against the joint sides to ensure adequate adhesion and a smooth finish.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to seal cracks in a roof?
Sikaseal®-173 is a bitumen sealant that is suitable for sealing cracks in roofs, helping to prevent water penetration and further cracking and deterioration.
Open the seal on the top of the cartridge, fit the nozzle and cut it to the desired bead size. Insert the product into the application gun. Apply the sealant into the joint ensuring that it comes into full contact with the sides of the joint and avoiding any air entrapment. As soon as possible after application, tool the sealant firmly against the joint sides to ensure adequate adhesion and a smooth finish.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
Everbuild® Weather Mate® is a multi-use gap filler and adhesive that can be used to seal cracks in roofs, even in wet conditions. It provides a durable, weatherproof seal for roof cracks in roofing materials such as bitumen, asphalt, lead and tiles.
Cut the tip of the cartridge taking care not to damage the thread. Apply nozzle and cut cleanly at an angle of 45° with an opening slightly larger than the gap to be sealed. Apply using a standard sealant gun. When applying, keep an even pressure on the gun trigger and keep the gun at a constant angle to the surface being sealed. Tool down the product immediately following application using a spatula or piece of wood wetted with a soap and water solution. When applied to wet surfaces tooling down is essential to ensure a proper bond with the surface is formed. The product is tack free after 10-15 minutes, and should be allowed to cure for 24 hours before painting.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to fix holes in a roof?
Sika® Black Jack®-903 Bitumen Trowel Mastic is a fibre-reinforced bitumen mastic for repairing and filling holes on roof surfaces.
To fill small cracks and holes with the mastic, force the compound into the crack with a steel trowel or putty knife and finish with a 25 mm band at a 3 mm thickness running the length of the crack.
For large cracks and holes, apply the compound over the area and embed a closely woven glass fibre membrane into the compound overlapping the crack or hole by 50 mm. Allow the compound to dry and then apply a second coat to fully cover the reinforcing membrane.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to seal and protect roof lead?
EVERBUILD® Lead Mate® Sealant is a lead sealant that creates a durable, flexible seal around lead flashing.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet to determine correct joint design. For an improved joint appearance place masking tape along both sides of the joint to be sealed and remove within 5 minutes after application. Cut the tip of the cartridge, apply the nozzle and cut at a 45 degree angle with an opening slightly larger than the gap to be sealed. Apply using a standard sealant gun. Keep an even pressure on the trigger and keep the gun at a constant angle to the surface being sealed. To ensure a proper bond, smooth the sealant down with a spatula or piece of wood.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
EVERBUILD® Lead Mate® Patination Oil is a protective coating for lead that protects new lead surfaces from staining and corrosion.
Wear gloves while applying the product. Always apply the product as soon as possible after installation. Apply the oil evenly using a soft absorbent cloth, work horizontally starting at the top and always maintain a wet edge. Do not apply in a circular motion. Only one coat is required. Before clipping lead, apply it to the underside of the lead to approximately 50 mm from the edge. Apply the oil to all areas, including clips and trim, and coat between laps.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to bond roof felt?
Sika® Black Jack®-904 Bitumen Roof Felt Adhesive is a roof felt adhesive designed to securely bond roofing felt to metal, concrete and wood.
Stir the adhesive thoroughly before and during use. Apply the adhesive using a brush or mop. Leave it open for 15-30 minutes to develop its full tackiness for best performance. Place the felt onto the adhesive and firmly rub or roll each section of felt down to ensure maximum contact with the adhesive and that there is no air underneath. Weigh down the felt until it is fully bonded.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to reduce heat absorption on a roof?
Sika® Black Jack®-907 Solar Reflective Paint is a light and heat reflective paint that helps reduce heat absorption by reflecting sunlight away from the roof surface.
Stir the product before and during use. Apply the paint in 2 coats by brush or mohair roller. Apply the second coat as soon as the first coat is dry (in 1-2 hours). Avoid ponding of the product.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to apply flashing tape?
Sika® Black Jack®-902 Bitumen & Flashing Primer is a bitumen and flashing primer that prepares porous and difficult roof surfaces by improving adhesion for flashing tape.
Prepare the surface before application according to the specific instructions on the Product Data Sheet. Stir the product thoroughly before and during use. Apply it by brush or spray. The primer should be well scrubbed in by brush, ensuring a thin even coverage. Avoid ponding/pooling when applying by spray.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
Sika® Black Jack® Flashing Tape is a self-adhesive flashing tape that provides an instant waterproof seal for roof details, joints and flashing. It is ideal for quick repairs and sealing difficult roof junctions.
Cut the tape to the required length. Peel back approximately 50 mm of release back cover and place the tape into position. Continue removing the release back cover whilst firmly pressing the tape to ensure a watertight seal. Use a small roller to ensure that all edges and overlaps are sealed properly. Overlaps should be at least 25 mm.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
How to clean hands and tools from bitumen?
Sika® Wonder Wipes are multi-use cleaning wipes that are specially formulated to clean hands, tools and surfaces from bitumen, oil, sealant, adhesive, epoxies and more.
Pull out the required amount of wipes from the pack and ensure to close the lid to prevent the wipes from drying out. When using on spills, use immediately for the best results.
Refer to the Product Data Sheet for detailed application instructions.
