Roof Flashings – What Are They and What’s Their Purpose

roof flashings

When it’s not your profession getting to grips with some of the roofing terminologies can be difficult. Take ‘roof flashings’ for example. You may have heard mention of them but what exactly are they and what’s the point of them? We thought we’d base this article around roof flashings since they are an extremely important part of your roof and it certainly won’t hurt to know more about them. So, let’s dive in and take a closer look.

What exactly are roof flashings?

Roof flashings are a type of structural metal fitting that used to prevent leaks occurring in your roof and sometimes they’re also used to strengthen and repair vulnerable areas. Flashings can be hard to spot on polycarbonate or metal roofing although you can sometimes spot new fittings even on a modern roof

Roof flashings – the bottom line

When you stop to consider the consequences of a leaking roof, the importance of roof flashings is easier to understand. A leaking roof can cause unbelievable damage to the inside of your property. A single leak can wreak havoc with your electrics and could even cause a fire. It can also rot the timbers supporting your roof and promote the growth of mould and fungi which can spread rapidly.

You’ll probably be astounded by the cost of repairing this type of damage – and not in a good way! Add to that the cost of significant repairs to your roof and the overall cost of fixing the problems caused by leaks can be astronomical.

Roof flashings and guttering are your arsenal in the battle against water leaks and form the frontline defence. Fortunately, an experienced roofer can detect and fix roof flashing problems quickly – and even better, it doesn’t cost a fortune. Spending a few dollars on roof flashings can save thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in potential damage.

Do your roof flashings need repair?

You don’t have to be a roofer to notice possible signs that your roof is deteriorating. If you have an older property, then it’s more than likely that some of the flashings are looking worn down.

Here are some signs to look out for:

  • Misaligned roof tiles or panels – A classic sign that your roof has suffered an element of deterioration is roof tiles or panels that don’t look properly aligned. While this is a fairly minor problem, it does need fixing. The Roofman can check your roof for any structural issues and carry out a thorough repair.
  • Ceilings or interior walls are discoloured – A fairly common sign of a leak is when you spot what looks like a stain on your ceiling or internal walls. If you see discolouration then you do have a leak and it’s important to call us right away to get it fixed. A leak that is well established can cause serious trouble especially when there is torrential rain.
  • Smells of mould – Mould only grows where there is water. It’s a sure sign that water is getting into your property from somewhere – and usually, it’s entering through the roof. Even if you can’t see where it’s coming from, a roofer will be able to locate it and fix the problem. The sooner you get this issue sorted, the better. Mould can cause a health risk, particularly to people suffering from respiratory issues such as asthma. Young children and elderly people are also at risk.

Do you need help with your roof?

Hopefully, you’ve found this information about roof flashings to be useful. If you’d like some professional assistance with your roof in Brisbane then The Roofman provides FREE high-quality roof inspections. We’ll give you a comprehensive report together with a no-obligation report for any necessary repairs and a projected timeline. This service helps extend the lifespan of your roof and we’ll also give you some simple maintenance tips you can do yourself too. Contact The Roofman today and help your roof last longer.

DIY Roof Restoration – When Can I Perform DIY Repairs?

DIY roof restoration

When can I perform DIY roof restoration?

Your roof has an important job to do, protecting your house from the elements, saving energy, helping to avoid leaks, not to mention adding curb appeal and value. So it makes sense to keep it in tip top condition.  

Over time your roof starts to lose its glare, which means it’s time to consider restoring it and getting it back to its former glory. You will also need to consider restoration if you suspect that elements of your roof need fixing.

When it comes to roof restoration there are two options to consider: DIY roof restoration or working with a roof repair company. Below are some of the situations where you may find yourself considering DIY roof restoration or repairs.

Minor Restoration

On occasions there may be a need for minor restorations on your roof. Such small jobs barely justify hiring a professional roofer to do the job for you and you may decide to do the job yourself. One minor DIY roof restoration you may consider is filling small leaks. However, you should only ever consider repairs, however minor, if you have the skills to do them yourself.

Have roof restoration training

If you have previous training in roof restoration then provided you have the time, it makes sense to do it yourself and save money.

It’s always advisable that homeowner learn skills that enable them to do minor jobs around the house. But before deciding to any sort of repair work on your roof by yourself, make sure you have the relevant knowledge and can handle all that’s involved in the job before going ahead.

If it seems more complicated than you first thought then please don’t attempt it. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could do more damage than good, injure yourself in the process, and find that it costs you more in the long run.

When your budget is tight

It may be that your roof requires restoration, but you don’t have the budget to call in an expert. If you’re reasonably handy then you can always find a video that shows you just how to repair your own roof but ultimately it boils down to whether or not you should. If you have a straightforward roof and take all the necessary safety precautions it might be okay to fix your own roof, but we would never recommend a homeowner climbs on their roof, let alone mends it.

The bottom line

If you have common sense and the right tools, you may do a decent repair job on a simple item like replacing a couple of shingles. But ultimately, you should be asking yourself why am I missing shingles? Is there more extensive damage that perhaps I can’t see? If your spot any problems with your roof, getting advice from an expert is always the first step you should take.

For all roofing problems big or small, give The Roofman a call on 0410 452 234. We provide a FREE roof inspection and will give you a comprehensive report on its condition, an obligation-free quote, and how long it is likely to take.

How to Save Money with an Energy-Efficient Roof

energy efficient roof

Your home is undoubtedly one of your most expensive purchases but are you ignoring the real costs of owning it? Heating and cooling our homes uses a lot of energy and much of this is wasted by not having an energy-efficient roof.

Brisbane is known for its extreme weather conditions and with winter edging closer we’re likely to be facing more unpredictable days. We’re going to be sharing a few simple tips to help you achieve an energy efficient roof and lower your energy bills. So let’s dive in and take a closer look.

5 Simple Tweaks For a More Energy Efficient Roof

  1. Change your roof colour – According to a recent article on ABC News dark roof cladding can cost you half a star in energy rating. Dark coloured roofs tend to absorb heat and light and direct it inward whereas a light-coloured roof will reflect the heat and lower your AC bill.
  2. Insulation – Having your house properly insulated is a game-changer. If your roof is poorly insulated then adding new insulation to the lining will be of benefit. You might want to consider cellulose insulation which is extremely efficient because it fills cavities completely to prevent any gaps. It’s also an environmentally friendly insulation option since it’s made from recycled paper.
  3. Cool roof coating – Another way of gaining a more energy-efficient roof is to consider one of the many cool roof coatings that are available on the market. These work by reflecting the sun’s heat before it can heat up your roof and can keep the surface of your roof cooler by 20 to 30%. This, in turn, can keep the rooms below cooler by 6 to 10%.
  4. Ventilation – Homes that are properly ventilated also help to create a more energy-efficient roof. A lack of ventilation in cool weather can cause moisture to build up by trapping cold air and this can result in mildew, mould, and damage to your roof and gutters.
  5. Consider other roof materials – Metal roofing is a great option because it’s energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, lightweight, strong, and long-lasting. It’s an ideal option for new builds but can also be installed over an existing roof and not only does it withstand extreme weather conditions but you can expect it to last for up to 50 years in some cases.

Here at The Roofman, we can discuss ways of helping you gain an energy-efficient roof as well as assist with all of your roofing needs from installations to inspections and repairs. With our FREE roof inspection service and obligation free quote, you’ve got nothing to lose. Give The Roofman a call today on 0410 452 234 to book your inspection.

Cleaning a Roof – Top Tips

cleaning a roof

Cleaning a roof may sound like a boring task for the weekend, but it’s something that needs to be done regularly to help maintain it. If you’re not sure where to start, then here are a few tips that can help you.

How to Get Started Cleaning Your House Roof

Do your research

If this is your first time at cleaning a roof then we recommend you do some research. Having a proper understanding and the correct information is key to getting the job done right. You might first want to consider if you actually want to clean your roof yourself. If you don’t, then you can hire a roofing company to do it for you.

Have the right tools and equipment

If you decide to clean your roof yourself, then you’re going to need the proper tools and equipment. Again, do some research and look at all the facts. Find out all you can and do an online search for a store that sells the materials you need. Remember, using the right products and tools can prevent unnecessary damage to your roof and save you money in the long term.

Which method should you use?

There are 2 methods of cleaning a roof. One method uses natural products or chemicals to give what is called ‘a soft wash’. The other method uses high pressure washing cleaning.

As a rule of thumb, soft washing is recommended for most roofs because high pressure washing doesn’t always remove the dirt and can damage the roof. A professional roofing company knows how much pressure a roof can withstand and how to use the pressure washer so that it doesn’t cause damage.  

If you do have moss or algae on your roof then it’s important to get it removed. Algae can feed on organic material in the shingles which could lead to wood rot. It can also spread, getting into the timber and underneath the roof.

The advantages of using a professional roof cleaning service

If all of this sounds like hard work to you, then why not ask a roof cleaner to do the job for you. Often they will use ammonia or bleach to kill algae whereas others may use vinegar and water, which is more friendly for the environment. Whatever solution they use, a good roof cleaner should protect your plants beneath from any excess solution which spills out from the gutters and could kill your plants.

Roof cleaners don’t just clean roofs, however. They also check for places that may need repairing. For instance your roof may need repointing, re-bedding or even re-capping. A good roof cleaner can point out these repairs and even give you a quote to get them fixed.

Often roof cleaners will clear the gutters at the same time. This is often necessary after the roof has been cleaned because algae, leaves, dirt, and moss are likely to collect in the gutters once the job has been done.

Each of these services is likely to have a separate cost but it is still cheaper than getting each job done by a different company.

Cleaning a roof and maintaining it can be dangerous to attempt yourself especially if you don’t have the right tools, experience, and knowledge. Fortunately, The Roofman has over 25 years of experience and can clean your roof efficiently and thoroughly in relation to its condition.

If you’re not sure if your roof needs cleaning then why not book a free roof inspection or of you prefer, simply organise your roof pressure cleaning service today by calling us on 0410 452 234.  

Leaking Roofs – What Causes This Problem?

leaking roofs

If you constantly have to fetch out buckets to catch leaks from your roof when it rains then you know how annoying this problem is. But, were you aware that leaking roofs can also be dangerous, especially if they’re left for a long time untreated?

Understanding where the leak is coming from can be quite tricky since the water can travel from the point where it is leaking, but there are several reasons why this may already be happening or could happen in the next day or two.

Age

Age is the most common cause of leaking roofs since the roof surface deteriorates with age, so it becomes less effective. Constant fluctuations in temperature and changes in the weather also cause roofing materials to become dry and to crack over time. Furthermore, the tar also starts to melt when it’s exposed to the sun for long periods, which is why a roof generally need replacing when it becomes old.

Cracked flashing

Flashing is the name for the thin strips of metal which are installed beneath the shingles and their role is to create a water-resistant barrier on the roof. Broken flashing can be detrimental to your roof and can also be the cause of leaking roofs.

The flashing is often held in place by tar and when this starts to deteriorate, it leaves the flashing exposed and open to natural elements such as rain and wind which can cause it to crack. This issue is best fixed by a roofing contractor so be sure to contact The Roofman if this is a problem you’re facing.

Broken shingles

Shingles form the exterior surface of the roof and are vulnerable to damage. Sometimes they can get distorted and moved out of place by heavy rain or strong gusts of wind. Other times the roof clips which hold the roof tiles in place are broken or have become clogged with debris, causing the roof to leak. Signs that you need new tile clips are water stains, black patches of mould, and holes in the ceiling.

Clogged gutters

Gutters are intended to help drain water away from the roof but at times they can get clogged, particularly when trees are dropping their leaves. Dropped leaves and other debris can cause a blockage which means there is nowhere for the water to travel. Instead, it accumulates in the area of the blockage and eventually seeps through any cracks. It’s important to clean out your gutters on an annual basis and always keep your roof surface clean too.

Whenever you see the signs of water leakage don’t delay. Matters will only get worse. Instead phone The Roofman. We offer a free no-obligation Brisbane roof inspection and can tell you right away if there are any problems with your roof that need fixing. Having an annual roof inspection will help spot minor issues before they become major issues and keep your roof healthier for longer.

Call The Roofman today on 0410 452234 or contact us by email. If you want to speak to a professional tradesman and leaking roofs, then look no further.

Does your Roof Pointing Need Replacing?

pointing

When was the last time you looked at your roof? While most of us regularly check the paintwork and clean the windows, it’s easy to forget about the roof that’s over our heads. If you have an older property in particular, then it’s worth getting a roofer to examine the pointing on your roof for signs of deterioration.

Older houses are likely to have cement mortar used for the roof pointing which is the same material that’s typically used for the bedding which holds the roof tiles in place. Both of these components are exposed to damaging natural elements such as UV rays, rain, wind, and dirt which over time break down the cement mortar.

This causes the tiles to loosen or slip and leaves them vulnerable to elements such as the wind and the rain. As a result, your roof may leak when it rains and there is a distinct possibility that your tiles could be lifted off in a strong wind and could cause damage to people passing by or vehicles parked near your home.

Re-bedding and re-pointing

When your roof needs re-bedding, we will replace the cement mortar and cover that with a layer of flexible pointing compound which strengthens the mortar’s hold on the tiles and provides a hardwearing protective layer which lengthens the life of the bedding.

Cement mortar was replaced in 1995 with a flexible compound for pointing and unlike cement, this won’t crack with the natural expansion and contraction of the roof.

The benefits of re-pointing

Re-pointing and re-bedding your roof can stop mould growing and water damage. Damaged mortar allows water or excess moisture to penetrate the inside of your property which not only promotes the growth of mould but can lead to additional problems.

Health risks from mould

Mould spreads quickly and can even enter your ductwork, posing a health risk for you and your family. It’s particularly serious for those who suffer from asthma, respiratory issues or allergies. Furthermore, removing mould takes time and is costly.

Wood rot

Excess moisture can also cause wood to rot and as this happens it becomes weaker until it cracks or breaks. Should supporting beams or joists rot, it could increase the risk of ceilings or floors collapsing.

Flooding

Damaged pointing or bedding also increases the risk of flooding. Damage to cement mortar can allow rainwater into your property which could pool in the ceilings or even run down the walls and into a basement, should your property have one.

These issues can impact the structure of your property particularly if water enters your basement. Constant exposure to water can cause the foundations to weaken and crumble and when this happens your entire home can be at risk.

Re-pointing your roof tiles is recommended to replace old-style cement mortar used for pointing before 1995. As already mentioned, cement is prone to shifting or cracking. Flexible pointing overcomes this issue.

Your tiles may even need pointing if your roof was constructed after 1995 as natural wear and tear can cause pointing to deteriorate.

How do I know if my roof needs re-pointing?

There are several signs of roof damage that can point to the need to have your roof tiles re-pointed. These include:

  • Loose tiles
  • Leaks in the roof
  • Excess moisture
  • Missing roof tiles
  • Pieces of roof tile or granules in the gutter

If you notice any signs of roof damage then we urge you to let a professional roofer inspect your roof. Repointing can protect your property from further damage which could cost you far more in the long run.

Call The Roofman today on 0410 452 234 to arrange your FREE roof bedding and pointing inspection. We will provide you with a comprehensive report and a no-obligation quote for any work that needs to be done.

Top Tips to Help Extend the Life of Your Roof

extend the life of your roof

A new roof is a very expensive proposition and – depending on the type of materials and the experience of the roofer – could set you back tens of thousands of dollars. Once you’ve put your money into that investment, it makes sense to protect it.

Even if your roof is several years old, keeping it in good shape will prevent the need to replace it prematurely.

Tips to help extend the life of your roof

Here are some tips to help keep your roof in good shape for the longest time possible.

Clean the gutters

Clogged gutters can cause your roof to leak. Damage to the facia and edge of the roof are typical problems caused by blocked gutters, but did you know that an overflow of water can also go upwards?

When gutters are full of compressed leaves, and water has nowhere to go, it can find its way into the roof sheathing, which over time may cause rotting and damage to the roof rafters.

Fixing this kind of damage could cost thousands of dollars to repair but you can avoid that by regularly cleaning your gutters at least once a year, if not twice. If you’re comfortable working from a ladder, you can do this job yourself, otherwise, organise The Roofman to do it for you.

Trim overhanging branches

While trees provide much-needed shade, they can also cause the need to replace your roof prematurely. Piles of leaves can accumulate in areas such as roof valleys and near chimneys and if they’re not removed moisture is trapped and the leaves gradually decompose. Not only does this allow moisture to gather on your roof, but it also creates a perfect fertile environment for weeds to grow.

There is also a chance of large branches falling during a storm and causing damage to your roof. Any branch, whatever its size will scratch the surface of your roof when it comes into contact with it. While the damage may be barely noticeable at first, it will over time become more apparent. Trim your branches to help extend the life of your roof.

Ventilate your attic

Ventilation is necessary to allow humid air to escape and cool air to enter the attic. Excess moisture in your attic is likely to lead to mould, which as well as damaging your insulation, could also damage your roof.

Proper ventilation can also save you money on your cooling costs. Trapped hot air in the attic not only makes your entire house warm but also overworks your air-con system.

For ventilation to work efficiently, you need soffit vents towards the lower part of your attic area and some sort of roof vent near the tallest part of your attic. This enables cool air to enter and hot air to escape.

Get a professional roof inspection each year

Having your roof inspected on regularly is key to preventive roof maintenance. Any roofer will tell you that if you have a problem, it needs to be addressed immediately to prevent it from developing into something more serious and more costly.

The Roofman offers FREE roof inspections and no-obligation quotes. We also provide a wide range of services to help maintain and keep your roof looking great, including concrete roof tiles repair, pointing, re clipping and pressure cleaning.

Replacing a roof prematurely is often unnecessary and expensive. Follow the tips above to extend the life of your roof and to ensure it protects your house. If you haven’t had your roof inspected recently, then make it a priority. Call The Roofman today on 0410 452 234 and keep the roof over your head for longer.

Concrete Tile Roof Repairs – 5 Mistakes to Avoid

concrete tile roof repairsConcrete tile roofs are beautiful. They’re also long-lasting and durable but just like any other roof they can develop problems. Spotting and carrying out concrete tile roof repairs early can help you keep your roof in good shape and save thousands of dollars on replacing it.

Homeowners are often tempted to perform small repairs themselves; although we don’t recommend this as there is always the danger of falling off the roof. However, if you feel that you have sufficient knowledge and the ability to carry out the necessary repairs, then take a moment to look at 5 common mistakes which homeowners often make, so that you can avoid them.

Not replacing like with like

In your rush to carry out concrete tile roof repairs, it’s quite easy not to give sufficient thought to the type of tile you’re replacing another with. Not only does it need to be the same type of concrete, but it also needs to be the same colour. Ignore either of these criteria, and your replacement tile will stand out like a sore thumb. Not only will it look awful, but the tile itself may not click into place with the others, which means your house is exposed.

Taking tiles from other areas of the roof

Some of the ‘quick fix’ tips you find on the internet may suggest you take a concrete tile from a place on your roof that’s hidden out of view and use that as a replacement tile. You should never do this under any circumstances, as not only is it lazy, but it’s likely to cost you more in the long run as this will leave another part of your roof exposed.

Top tip: Keep a supply of 8-10 roof tiles in your garage as spares. Should a roof tile break, all you have to do is remove the broken piece or pieces and slot a brand-new tile in its place.

Being too forceful

Getting a concrete roof tile of its place isn’t as easy as it sounds. You can use a tool like a crowbar to gently lever it out, but it’s important to take care when doing so. If you’re too forceful with the crowbar you could end up breaking another tile or even causing one or two tiles to go flying across your roof. Just apply the pressure you need to.

Not looking at the bigger picture

When carrying out concrete tile roof repairs, never assume that a damaged or broken tile is just a one-off. We know from experience that there is always a reason for a tile to get damaged. It could be due to inclement weather or there may be a fault with your roof itself. Always check the tiles closest to the damaged one, as this could alert you to a larger problem and save the need and expense of replacing more tiles in the near future.

Not watching your step

You may be so focused on replacing a single broken tile that you fail to take into account other factors relating to your roof. One of the biggest dangers is yourself. You can do a lot of damage when you aren’t watching where you’re placing your feet and thinking about the effect the weight of your body is having on your roof tiles. Try not to place your weight directly onto a tile as this can cause it to break while you’re replacing the broken one.

To be sure of avoiding all of these mistakes, why not contact a professional to carry out your concrete tile roof repairs. The Roofman has 25 years of experience, is fully licensed, and experienced in all aspects of roof repair. Call us today on 0410 452 234.