• Rubberized membrane covers the entire surface of a flat roof.on roof image by cherry from Fotolia.com
  
  As a primary line of defense against the elements, the roof takes a beating from wind, rain, snow and sun. Weather deteriorates a roof covering's surface, infiltrates a home's interior, damages structural elements and leads to dangerous mold and mildew. Fortunately for the do-it-yourselfer, roof repair products are easy to use and readily available. Whether you're patching a flat roof, shingled roof or metal roof, learn about roof leak products and choose the right type for your job.
  
  

Roof Cement

• Roofing repair professionals use general purpose roof cement to cover cracks, patch holes and seal gaps surrounding flashings, vents and chimneys. This asphalt based product is available in 1-gallon can, 5-gallon bucket or caulking tube. To apply roof cement from a can or bucket, a roofer scoops the smooth, black paste from the container with a putty knife, or trowel, and spreads it across a roof's surface. To apply roof cement from a caulking tube, a roofer loads the tube into a caulking gun and pulls the gun's trigger to distribute a thin, even line of cement into corners or across thin cracks. Once cured, roof cement creates a leak-proof film across a roof's surface.
  
  

Wet Patch

• This modified version of general purpose roof cement contains ingredients which encourage curing under wet conditions. Like general purpose roof cement, wet patch is available in cans, buckets and caulking tubes and is applied with a putty knife or caulking gun. Wet patch cures and creates a waterproof seal on wet surfaces. These special characteristics allow the repair professional to perform immediate, emergency leak repairs during rainy weather.
  
  

Silicone Sealant

• The addition of silicone to traditional roof leak products improves performance and provides several distinct advantages. Typically more flexible than standard products, sealants with silicone additives easily expand and contract with roof movements. Flexibility reduces the chance of cracking and extends the sealant's life. Sealants with silicone additives often withstand a greater temperature range than standard roof cements. Typically available in a caulking tube, silicone sealant creates a weatherproof and waterproof seal around chimneys, vents and flashings.
  
  

Rubberized Membrane

• This thin, fluid-like product forms a weatherproof and waterproof membrane over an entire surface, particularly a flat roof. Roofers use rubberized membrane both during new construction, such as during the installation of a "built-up" roofing system, and renovations. Roofers spread rubberized membrane across a roof by mop or roller, allow the compound to cure and apply successive layers as needed.