Look up: Does your roof need renovating?

When was the last time you thought about your roof? If you’re like most home owners, you might clean your gutters once a year. However, you probably don’t look at your roof unless it looks so bad you can no longer ignore it or an obvious leak forces you to call a roof-repair service. Your roof is your first line of defence against the weather, so it deserves a closer look.

Signs of roof damage

The problem with overlooking minor roof problems is that they become compounded over the years. A small leak this year will be a bigger leak next year. Eventually, more than just your roof will need repairing.

These are some signs of roof damage you can look for on and around the roof:

• Rotting timber below the roof line may be an indication that water is getting through your roof and keeping the timber moist. Also look for bubbles or chips on painted surfaces. If they are localised, it may be because the timber is wet.
• Corrosion around the guttering is another sign of excess moisture.
• A discoloured area on your roof can be a sign of algae. Algae needs moisture to grow, so it’s time to have your roof inspected.
• Roof flashing is very important. If it’s loose, it needs replacing.
• If you have a tiled roof, look for areas where cement is coming loose on your ridge (or capping) tiles. Get it fixed and have your roof inspected at the same time.
• A sagging roof is a sure sign something is very wrong.

You can also have a look in your ceiling cavity. If you see streaks or brown spots, it’s a sign that water has found its way through your roof. If your ceiling insulation is damp, water coming through the roof is probably the culprit.

Repair, restore or replace?

If you see any signs that your roof is damaged, it’s time to call in the roofing specialists. But does your roof need repairing, restoring or replacing?

There are a few general rules of thumb:

• A single leak on a relatively new roof can usually be repaired.
• Multiple leaks call for a full inspection and possibly a roof restoration.
• If your roof is 20 years old, have it thoroughly inspected. You may need to have it restored or replaced.
• Roofs rarely last over 30 years. It’s probably wise to replace a very old roof rather than try to patch it.

Replacing your roof isn’t as exciting as, say, renovating your kitchen or living room, but if you value your home then it may be the wisest investment you can make. While you’re at it, choose a roofing material that has thermal and acoustic insulating properties and consider replacing your roof and ceiling insulation. Ceilings and roofs are responsible for a tremendous amount of heat transference. If they are well insulated, your home will be more comfortable and your energy bills lower.

Keeping an eye on your roof can save you headaches down the track and ensure your home is watertight. If a problem arises, make sure you get on top of it quickly.