Regular maintenance is essential to get the best performance and lifespan from your roof, wall cladding, and rainwater systems, and to comply with any product warranties. Regardless of the material or system you’ve chosen, no roofing solution is truly maintenance free.
Like all parts of your building, these exterior elements require care to keep them functioning properly and looking their best.
General Roof & Cladding Maintenance
To understand the specific maintenance requirements for your roof or cladding system, always refer to the manufacturer or supplier’s guidelines. Regular inspections and upkeep will help prevent small issues from becoming big problems.
Be alert to signs of trouble, such as:
Leaks or water stains inside your home
Overflowing or leaking gutters
Unusual noises coming from the roof during high winds or storms
If you notice any of these, arrange an inspection and repairs as soon as possible. Blocked overflows, for example, can indicate urgent drainage issues that may lead to internal water damage if not cleared quickly.
Safety First
If you plan to carry out roof maintenance yourself, it’s critical to prioritise safety.
Ladders can be dangerous, always follow proper ladder safety procedures.
Only work at height if you are competent and confident doing so.
Professional roofers use safety controls like edge protection, scaffolding, or cherry pickers. These should also be used by anyone working at height for more than a few minutes.
If your roof is showing signs of wear, has surface damage, or is starting to look tired, roof restoration may be an option to consider.
Restoration is commonly carried out on concrete tile roofs, metal tile roofs, and pre-painted long-run steel roofing, and can involve cleaning, repairs, treatment of corrosion or damage, and recoating. In some cases, general maintenance and removal of organic growth may be all that is required to improve performance and appearance.
Not all roofs are suitable for restoration, and careful assessment is essential before any work is undertaken. To help homeowners make informed decisions, RANZ has produced a Roof Restoration Guide for Consumers, which outlines restoration and maintenance processes, key considerations before signing a contract, and practical consumer advisory tips. Engaging a specialist professional roofing company is critical to protecting your investment.
