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Most Common Roofing Mistakes To Avoid

Depending on how well it was built and other elements like weather, salinity, and upkeep, a metal roof should survive between 50 and 100 years.

Inadequate knowledge and expertise in roofing might result in several errors that endanger your roof. As a result, you might need to hire a  roofing contractor again to finish the task, which will cost you additional money. By disregarding the proper procedures when doing a roof repair or replacement, you run the additional danger of running afoul of the law or your insurance provider.

Lance Mathews

Lance Mathews

Lance Mathews, with 20 years of expertise in roofing and cladding, Lance was involved in the first architectural cladding business in Melbourne. Lance is a Director at Total Roofing and Cladding based in Melbourne, one of Melbourne's premier roofing and cladding companies. His extensive knowledge and experience have driven Total Roofing and Cladding to become one of Melbourne's elite roofing and cladding companies.
In This Article

Roofing Mistakes That Every Roofer Should Avoid

Unfortunately, many roofers need help installing your roof correctly or don’t care. If you observe your current roofer committing any of these faults, you should look for a new roofer. Naturally, it’s unlikely that you will be able to monitor everything your roofer does, so make sure to make enquiries. A roofer is more likely to take their time installing your roof correctly if they know you are an informed customer. Start with a roofer you can rely on if you want peace of mind.

Therefore, being aware of specific common roofing errors helps you avoid only spotting scams. It makes you into a knowledgeable customer who can interact with their roofer.

Incorrect flashing installation

Your roof’s ability to perform is dependent on the flashing. Flashing is typically constructed in valleys where two slopes meet and are composed of sheet metal. Additionally, it is put in place around a dormer or anywhere siding meets a roof slope. Flashing is also necessary for chimneys and other masonry structures. These sensitive regions won’t be protected if the flashing is incorrectly fitted. That may leak and harm your roof’s lower portions, including your attic.

Putting a New Roof Over an Old One

Most individuals frequently make the error of putting a new roof on top of an existing one. If overlaying occurs more than once, it may be considered criminal by some jurisdictions’ laws. Even if this behaviour might not be against the law where you live, you should nevertheless avoid it. Aside from that, covering up old shingles with new ones risks causing more harm to your walls and roof. This extra layer often adds weight, which might put pressure on your walls and roof.

Failure to use the proper shingles for hips and ridges

The portion of your house that weather abuses the most is the roof. Your roof’s hips and ridges endure the most wear and tear. They are constantly exposed to the elements and endure the highest wind speeds. To address this, roofing manufacturers provide more robust and resilient specialist shingles for hips and ridges than standard shingles. Your roof might leak sooner than usual if your roofer remembers to install them.

Insufficient Attic Ventilation

Inadequate attic ventilation is a typical roofing problem, yet it’s essential for maintaining the condition of your roof. Too much heat or moisture in an attic can harm the underside of your roof. Unfortunately, inadequate ventilation was used in the construction of many older dwellings. Inquire about ventilation before having your roof repaired or replaced. Intake and exhaust venting should take up an equal amount of the entire vent area. A skilled roofer should know that your ventilation should be adequate. Improving excellent ventilation might prevent your roof from deteriorating too quickly.

Inappropriate Nail Use

It would help if you also refrained from using too many nails. Use enough to put these fasteners in the proper places and angles. Consequently, lock your slates, shingles, or other materials firmly into place.

On the other hand, short nails need to be able to pierce the roof’s underlayment adequately. As a result, they will need to secure the slate or shingles adequately. 

Over time, these nails will begin to burst, allowing rainwater to enter the roof and perhaps causing leaks.

Failure to install a drip edge or leak barrier

Not building a drip edge or leak barrier is another error homeowners make when fixing or replacing their roofs. Even if you could be trying to save some money, it’s best to stay away from this mistake.
Because a drip edge and leak barrier will help you avoid water damage to your home, it’s essential to keep this in mind.

Not getting a roofing permit

Most local governments want a permit before installing a new roof. The person responsible for failing to get a permit is the structure’s owner or the piece of property.
Without a permit, installing a roof may incur fines, insurance coverage denials, or even the total removal of the new roof.

Incorrect installation of the starter course

The initial row of shingles around the perimeter of your roof is known as the starting course. Your roof’s edge is where leaks are more likely to occur. A starting course should be double-layered to prevent water from infiltrating. To assist in keeping water out, the shingles should be spaced apart. An incorrectly placed starter course increases the danger of water leakage, just like most other roofing errors do.

How Long Do Gutter Last-ELR Plumbing

Signs Your Roofer is Doing a Great Job

Your roof appears to be level and uniform.

Take a close, honest look at your roof after maintenance or installation. After a renovation, most homeowners still need a complete visual check of their roofs. When a roofing project is finished, your roof should have a uniform appearance. An uneven look is a clear sign that poor roofing work was done to your home. Your roofing will only seem uniform if the asphalt shingles are all the same colour or if they droop. Your roof should also be constructed using the same materials from start to finish.

Your roofing contractor removed old layers.

The old layers of the roof must be removed before starting a new job. When doing a visual assessment, roofing layers might be identified. The number of shingle layers that will be installed will be disclosed when the roofer provides you with a pricing estimate. When the project is finished, if your roof has more layers than initially estimated, you’ll know the roofer still needs to remove the previous layers.

They leave the work area precisely as they find it.

Outstanding roofers never leave behind construction waste, unopened packages, worn-out shingles, or surplus materials. Many even carry their construction dumpsters with them to help keep the job site clean while they work. A corporation must do an excellent job if it forces you to collect and discard these materials.

Your roofing contractor has a registration and license.

Outstanding roofers never leave behind constrLack of licensure is the first warning sign of an unethical contractor. A licence from the Department of Professional Regulation is necessary for roofers.

The local council will evaluate your property when a roofing project is finished to ensure your contractor complies with all construction regulations and for the neighbourhood’s safety.

A licence establishes authority and releases you, the homeowner, from responsibility if something goes wrong.uction waste, unopened packages, worn-out shingles, or surplus materials. Many even carry their construction dumpsters with them to help keep the job site clean while they work. A corporation must do an excellent job if it forces you to collect and discard these materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fall and late summer are the perfect seasons for roofers. Late winter or early spring roofing replacement appointments may result in cheaper costs or off-season savings.

The strip will cause the shingles to stay down and join together when heated by the sun. A new roof frequently seems a little wavey before this permanent seal is made. This usually isn’t a concern unless you have windy circumstances that may catch the shingles.

Call a roofing company to check the damage to ensure a complete and accurate examination. To identify water and other underlying issues, roofing specialists dig more profound than the surface of a structure. The roof condition only worsens since insurance adjusters frequently overlook underlying problems.

Your roof’s ridges are areas where the upper margins of two roof slopes converge. Experts in roof repair view ridges as weak places since shingles can’t completely cover the region. Flashing strips or ridge tiles protect ridges, although they are susceptible to sealant breakdown over time.

Key Takeaways

Knowing what may go wrong is better before you begin your renovation job. You can prevent any unpleasant and expensive effects in this way. You may prevent costly surprises and early roof collapse by being aware of the indicators of a poor roofing installation and contractor. You are allowing too many opportunities for errors to occur during your new roof installation if you need to know what to look out for. These errors might lead to significant property damage and the failure or loss of your new roof.

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The Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing

Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering buying a house with one or installing one.

It may be time to consider a metal roof if your present roof costs you a lot of money in maintenance. When it comes to roof replacement or new construction, many homeowners prefer metal roofing. Metal roofing materials are available in metals, including galvanised steel, copper, aluminum, and tin, and can be installed using methods. A metal roof has several benefits, but it also has a few drawbacks to consider. We’ll go through each in this post.

Pros

​​Metal roofing has rapidly grown in popularity with the numerous advantages it provides that roofing materials just cannot match. These are some. 

Long-Lasting and Resilient

The extended lifespan of metal roofing is at the top of our list of advantages. It usually lasts the same amount of time as the house. It can keep water out, withstand strong winds, is non-corrosive (perfect for those houses by Melbourne beaches) and rapidly shed snow. Metal roofs are also fire, rot, insect, and mildew resistant. It’s an investment that, with proper maintenance, can keep your roof looking fantastic and safeguard your belongings for up to 70 years. A metal roof also comes with a 50-year warranty, whereas traditional roofing materials only have a 20-year warranty. 

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For comparison, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), asphalt shingles for 20 years, modified bitumen roofing for 20 years, fiber cement shingles for 25 years, tar and gravel (flat roof) for 20–25 years, and wood shingles for 30 years are projected to survive. 

Metal Roofing Advantages

Lifespan of a metal roof

Depending on the environment, craftsmanship, metal roofs can last up to 50 years, approximately the same as the clay/concrete tile roofing with 50 years, simulated slate with 50 years, and real slate with 50 years or more.

Metal roofs can endure the weather in your location since the material is quite sturdy. You might be worried about rust, but modern metal roofing has a protective coating that prevents oxidation, which causes rust. 

Metal roofing, installed by Total Roofing and Cladding specialists, can help you stay in the same spot for a long time or pass down your home to the next generation. 

Lightweight

It puts less strain on building structures than other materials like tiles. It’s also tough, capable of supporting the weight of solar panels and thermosiphon hot water systems without breaking. 

Metal roofing can weigh anything from 1 to 3 pounds per square foot, depending on thickness and profile. It is one of the lightest roofing materials available. Because it is lightweight, you may save money on the supporting structure’s construction. Because of the low weight of metal roofing, you may frequently reduce the number of roof support components when building a new house or an extension.

Safe

During a wildfire or a lightning strike, metal roofs will not spark and flare into flames.They will not catch fire if they come into contact with flying sparks due to the noncombustibility of metal roofing materials.

Energy-efficient

Metal roofs reflect UV and infrared radiation from the sun which contribute to radiant heat on the roof surface, reducing heating and cooling costs by 10 to 25%. Due to the reflecting features of this type of roof, the cost of installing a metal roof can be recovered through monthly savings and reduced cooling costs. The Metal Roofing Alliance states that these reflect solar radiation heat, which may save up to 25% on cooling expenditures year-round, but notably during the long summer days. Furthermore, other metal roofing is treated with heat-reflective pigments to reduce heat input and keep people cool without turning on the air conditioner.

Environmentally friendly

Metal roofs are not only made up of 25-95 percent recycled material, depending on the type, but they are also 100 percent recyclable at the end of their useful life as a roof. The majority of shingle tear-off debris, on the other hand, winds up in the building-related waste stream, amounting to up to 20 billion pounds each year.

When compared to concrete tiles, this is a significant difference. Concrete is one of the most significant sources of CO2 emissions, accounting for 4–8% of global emissions. When a metal roof reaches the end of its useful life, the components may be recycled.

Low-cost maintenance

You’ll never have to spend a dollar on maintenance with metal roof sheets. Even if small repairs are required, they usually consist of simply brushing off the leaves or repainting after an initial coat of paint was done when your new roofing material was installed.

Metal Roofing Installation

Easy installation

Metal roofs are quick and simple to install when panels are used. Metal roof sheets are seven times lighter than traditional roof tiles! Considering a roof replacement from tile to tin is ideal for homes that appear to be at risk of being blown away in a storm. Metal roofing is an excellent choice for any home since it protects against all forms of weather while also boosting the value. Metal roofs range in width from 12 inches to 36 inches broad, depending on where you reside.

Customisable

Metal roofing may be customised in hues, making it a one-of-a-kind feature or enhancing the home’s appearance. There are almost unlimited alternatives that make metal roofing unique, including vivid color options, conventional copper, and tin aesthetics.

Cons

There aren’t many, but each roofing application and material choice has its own set of difficulties. Here are the top four disadvantages of metal roofing.

Prone to dents and leaky fasteners

Though they are designed to combat harsh weather that runs quickly down the metal slope rather than lingering and producing leaks, huge hail or falling branches can cause damage to certain metals. If these drawbacks appear to be deal-breakers, be assured that they may be completely avoided by choosing the right shingle. Some metals are just more corrosion resistant than others. Because aluminum and copper are softer than steel, they are more susceptible to damage.

Water may cause harm to a roof if it gathers anywhere on it as a result of faulty installation or repair. Low-grade metals are also likely to have a narrower gauge and be less durable. Some metals corrode more readily in specific regions or dent more easily during hail storms or installation than others, and the majority of exposed fastener systems do not meet the same engineering criteria as standing seam metal roofing. Rainwater can leak through the screw holes in a metal roof with exposed fasteners, which many expert roofers will not advise.

Expensive

Metal roofs can cost two to three times as much as other types of roofing. While a metal roof has a significantly longer lifespan, you should only invest in one if you intend to stay in your house long enough to reap the financial benefits.

A metal roof cost comes at a considerable price for the many years of service it offers. Based on Home Advisor’s Guide to Roofing Costs, the material may cost anywhere from $120 to $900 for 100 square feet. Then, not only are the materials expensive, but the labor to install them is also more expensive than other forms of roofing due to the training, skills, tools, and equipment required.

Noisy

During rainstorms or hailstorms, metal roofs may be rather noisy. It’s true that anything that falls on a metal roof makes a louder noise than something that falls on an asphalt shingle or wood shake roof. However, modern installation procedures can insulate against this noise to some extent, and metal roof owners seldom consider this to be a significant drawback over time.

Metal Roofing Australia

Difficult to repair or modify

Metal roofing is more difficult to repair than single shingles since it is put in huge panels. It might also be hard to find matching patches to fix a colored metal roof.

Conclusion

When choosing a new roof for your existing or new house, it’s critical to take your time and research the roofing materials, contractor, and installation options. If you have the budget to pay for metal roofing upfront and expect to stay in your house, it might be a wise investment. This is especially true if you reside in a storm-prone or wildfire-prone location and your home’s layout allows for metal roofing. Remember, metal roofing is a long-lasting, lightweight, and professional-installed option.

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Roof Replacements - A Guide To a Re Roof

Every roof has an end date. Replacing a roof on a house is a time-consuming but necessary task for most individuals. When the time comes to replace the roof, to ensure that the job is completed correctly, you must know what procedures to follow. Even if you hire a roofing contractor to do the project for you, you’ll want to know what they’ll be doing each step of the way so you know what to expect. Below is a guide to roof replacement.

The Basic Roofing Materials

Your options of roofing materials are influenced by your location and preferences. These are the most typical roofing systems.

Asphalt Composition Shingles

These are inexpensive and readily available, but their flat design makes them less appealing than alternative possibilities. It is the most common roofing material. Composition shingles are often built of either organic (consisting of a cellulose-fiber) base saturated with asphalt and coated with colored mineral granules) or fiberglass (consisting of a fiberglass mat, top-and-bottom layers of asphalt, and mineral granules). In as little as eight years, composition roofs will require maintenance or repair. High winds can readily destroy this material, causing the shingles to blow off. Curling, cracking, and streaking of the shingles can occur due to extreme heat, severe rains, and other weather conditions, reducing the appearance and effectiveness of your roof. Re roof is necessary several times throughout the lifetime of an ordinary home with composition shingles resulting in the trash that must be disposed of in the environment.

Clay and Concrete

These are inexpensive and readily available, but their flat design makes them less appealing than alternative possibilities. It is the most common roofing material. Composition shingles are often built of either organic (consisting of a cellulose-fiber) base saturated with asphalt and coated with colored mineral granules) or fiberglass (consisting of a fiberglass mat, top-and-bottom layers of asphalt, and mineral granules). In as little as eight years, composition roofs will require maintenance or repair. High winds can readily destroy this material, causing the shingles to blow off. Curling, cracking, and streaking of the shingles can occur due to extreme heat, severe rains, and other weather conditions, reducing the appearance and effectiveness of your roof. Throughout its lifetime, an ordinary home with composition shingles will need to be re-roofed several times resulting in the trash that must be disposed of in the environment.

composite slate roof

Composition Slate

These synthetic tiles are made of 95% recycled materials. They are similar to slate and other types of stone tile, but they are less prone to damage and lighter. Because all forms of synthetic slate may be recycled at the end of a roof’s useful life, this is considered a green building option. It has advanced UV inhibitors to protect against sun degradation and impact modifiers to help storm damage.

Metal Roofing

Metal is one of the most long-lasting roofing materials, often with a lifetime warranty. Metal roofs are available in bespoke shapes, designs, and materials, including Colorbond, aluminium, high-grade steel, and copper. These are pricey roofs that require specialized professionals to install because of their lengthy lifespan and cost-efficiency. Metal roofing systems come in styles, including raised-seam panels and items that appear like composite shingles.

Slate Roofing

Slate is one of the best types of roofing materials utilised in the business, and are a popular choice for roof replacement tasks. Slate is a natural, mined stone that weighs less than many other types of tiles and requires reinforced structure in most cases. Slate tiles can be pricey, but they can easily endure moisture, fire, and insect damage, with a typical lifespan of more than 100 years. It is a beautiful, high-end roofing alternative, but it is also expensive and heavy. Slate roofs are dangerous to walk on and difficult to restore if they are broken.

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Wood shakes

Wood Shakes or Shingles

These are made of cedar, redwood, southern pine, and others; wood shingles are machine sawn, whereas shakes are created by hand and have a rougher appearance. The shingles are costly, but they look great. These are tough, but they are not a smart choice in areas where there is a risk of fire.

A form of wood roofing material manufactured by splitting thin rectangles of wood off a log is known as wood shake. The two types of wood roofing materials are wood shingles and wood shakes. Wood shingles, as opposed to wood shakes, are sawn on both sides and thinner at the bottom. Wood shakes are thicker than shingles because they are sewn on one side and hand-split on the other. Both are wedge-shaped and fastened to a roofing deck independently. 

A wood shingle roof will have a much smoother and more consistent appearance. A roof made of wood shakes will appear more rustic and natural.

Understanding the Roofing Process

A reasonably sized and professionally-installed roofing job might be completed in as little as three or four days. The following is the general procedure followed by the roofing crew.

Setting Up for Your Roof Replacement

All existing shingles should be removed and thrown away in a roll-off dumpster. At this point, any damaged or old valley flashing or drip edging is also removed. During tear-off, a skilled crew will utilise tarps to protect foundation plantings and shrubs, and magnetic equipment to remove nails and metal objects from the lawn.

Clear Away Old Roofing Material

Install ice dam protection in areas where it is needed. The Ice Guard membrane is a synthetic waterproof barrier meant to keep melting ice from backing up under the shingles and seeping through the sheathing, causing serious damage.

Change Out Old Flashing and Put Down the Underlayment

Install asphalt roofing paper over the roof sheathing to form an inner barrier that prevents water from reaching the house. Rows of roofing paper are overlapped and tacked or stapled in place as they progress upward toward the apex. Apply metal drip edging to both the gable and eave sides of the roof’s edge. Over the roofing paper or ice guard, the metal drip edge is nailed in place. Install new valley flashing where necessary, especially where two roof planes meet: Valley flashing is normally affixed to the roofing deck and sealed with roofing caulk. With the tab shingles, begin at the eaves and work your way up to the peak. As the tiles progress toward the top, roof vents are placed where they are required. Apply the flashing to the chimney, skylights, stack vents, and any other areas where a leak could enter the house. Flashing installation may take place when the rows of shingles progress upward on the roof deck as part of the roofing procedure.

Installing the New Roof

Place the ridge vent in its proper location. This continuous vent runs the length of the roof’s peak, aiding air circulation in the attic space and maybe reducing ice dams in the winter. Although ridge vents may not be present on older roofs, they are a smart idea to include when a home is re-roofed. Other types of roof or gable vents should be created to allow air to circulate in the attic space if ridge vents aren’t a possibility.

Cleanup and Final Inspection

The crew will clear up any residual debris from the installation once the roofing materials have been completed, ensuring that the house is clean for the homeowner. The job is considered finished if the contractor is happy that the new roof fulfills its quality standards. The homeowner may rest easy knowing that they have a roof over their heads that will offer them all of the protection they require for a long time.

roof system components

Roof System Components

There are five main components to all steep-slope roof systems.

  1. Roofing materials include shingles, tile, slate, or metal, and underlayment to protect the sheathing from the elements. 
  2. The sheathing is a term used to describe boards or sheets of material that are secured to roof rafters to cover a home or structure. 
  3. The roof structure is made up of rafters and trusses that support the sheathing. 
  4. Flashing is sheet metal or other material that is put into the different joints and valleys of a roof system to prevent water seepage. 
  5. Drainage is the ability of a roof system’s architectural features, such as shape, slope, and arrangement, to shed water.

Ventilation and Insulation

Proper ventilation is one of the most important aspects of roof system durability. Heat and moisture build-up in an attic without it, causing decay in the rafters and sheathing, shingles to buckle, and insulation to lose effectiveness. It is critical not to close off roof ventilation sources like louvers, ridge vents, or soffit vents in the winter. Proper attic ventilation will assist to minimize moisture-related structural damage, extend the life of roofing materials, reduce energy consumption, and improve the comfort of the areas below the attic.

Insulation, in addition to the free movement of air, is critical for proper attic ventilation. 

Factors Affecting the Roof System Performance

The following information will assist you in making informed roof system purchasing decisions. 

Condensation

It is caused by the accumulation of relatively warm, moisture-laden air. Moisture in an attic with insufficient ventilation increases the degradation of wood sheathing and rafters, potentially compromising the roof structure. Installing larger or extra vents will provide adequate attic ventilation, which will help to alleviate difficulties by bringing the attic air temperature closer to that of the outside air.

Flashing Deterioration

Many purported roof leaks are flashing leaks. Water can enter a home or structure without adequate, tight flashings around chimneys, vents, skylights, and wall/roof junctions, causing damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and electrical systems. As part of a biannual roof inspection and gutter cleaning, flashings should be checked.

ice and snow

Ice and Snow

These obstruct adequate gutter drainage. Water accumulates beneath the shingles (or other roofing components) and penetrates the interior. Gutters and downspouts can be the first to fill with ice during the early phases of the thaw and be damaged beyond repair or even pulled off a house or building.

Missing or Torn Shingles

Complete protection is the key to a roof system’s success. A roof structure and the interior of a home or building are prone to water damage and rot when shingles are missing or torn off. Nearby shingles are also easily ripped or blown away, so the problem is likely to spread. Shingles that are missing or torn should be replaced as soon as feasible.

Rain

Water that gets below shingles, shakes, or other roofing materials can seep into the roof deck and damage the roof structure. Mildew and rot thrive in high-moisture environments, such as walls, ceilings, insulation, and electrical systems.

Shingle Deterioration

Curling, splitting, and loss of waterproofing effectiveness occur as shingles become old and worn out. Wind gusts can easily blow shingles off, tear them, or lift them. The end effect is structural decay and harm to the interior. A failing roof system will only get worse over time and should be replaced as soon as feasible.

Sun

Heat and ultraviolet light degrade roofing materials over time. On the sides facing west or south, deterioration can be more rapid. 

Trees and Leaves

When tree branches come into contact with a roof and are driven by the wind, they scratch and gouge the roofing materials. Overhanging tree branches can harm, if not pierce, shingles and other roofing components. Leaves on the surface of a roof system absorb moisture and promote damage; gutters obstruct drainage.

Winds

High winds can lift the edges of shingles (or other roofing materials), forcing water and debris beneath them. Strong winds can cause significant harm. 

moss and algae

Moss and Algae

Moss and algae thrive in damp wood shingles and shakes. Moss traps more moisture to the surface of a roof system as it develops and causes decay. Moss roots can potentially find their way through a wood deck or structure. Algae can also grow on wood or asphalt shingle roofs in wet, shady places. Algae can hold moisture, causing decay and deterioration, in addition to leaving a black-green stain. Trees and bushes should be trimmed away from homes and structures, and gutters should be kept clean to guarantee proper drainage to avoid wet, shadowed areas. 

Common Questions Regarding Roof Replacement

Although understanding the phases of roof replacement and roof restoration will help you prepare for the job, you may still have some concerns. Here are some of the most often asked questions by individuals in need of a new roof.

Is There a Best Time for a Roof job?

You might be asking when the best time is to replace your roof. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to scheduling your job. You should complete the task as quickly as feasible. It is because delaying a roof replacement could result in further damage to your home. You risk water damage and other difficulties if you wait too long to replace it. It is preferable to schedule your replacement as soon as possible.

How Long Does it Take to Complete the process?

There’s no way to know how long a roof replacement will take in advance, just as there’s no way to know how long any other house repair will take. The schedule is determined by several criteria, including the new roof’s material, the type of roof, and the crew’s experience.

A wood shakes roof typically takes three to four days to install. The synthetic slate may take a little longer. A concrete tile roof, on the other hand, takes roughly eight or nine days to install. Natural slate roofs take longer to install than typical materials due to their substantial weight. It typically takes six to seven days. Asphalt shingles are by far the easiest to install, taking only one or two days to complete. However, the size of your home has a direct impact on how long it takes to replace your roof.

Do I Need To Move Out Of My Home While My Roof Is Replaced?

Unusually, a new roof installation or re-roofing job will need you to evacuate your building entirely. Tarps and other barriers are used by professional roofing companies to protect your property and garden from harm. During this time, pay attention to when our skilled roofers identify areas of hazard that you should avoid while the job is being done, and stay away from them.

Is it Better to Tear Off or Add a Second Layer?

It used to be usual practice to lay a new shingle roof over the old one at least once, if not twice. Even if layering is permitted, laying a fresh layer of shingles over an existing one should be done with caution.

Telegraphing

Another issue with shingling over existing shingles is that you’re just reproducing some of the surface flaws that are already there. If you’re thinking about getting a new roof, there’s a strong possibility you’ll find bubbles, bumps, and waves that need to be addressed. Installing new shingles over existing faults can result in an unappealing new roof. Going through the existing roof and correcting as many flaws as possible before re-roofing is one strategy to reduce this problem. To fix irregularities, gaps, and protruding nails, all you need is a hammer, some roofing nails, and a handful of shingles.

Weight

The main argument against adding more layers of asphalt shingles is that the roofing materials can become too heavy for the roof framework. It can be a structural issue, particularly in older homes. A triple layer of asphalt shingles is compared to a single layer of slate shingles, which is a heavy material.

Work and Waste Reduction

The main benefit of layering is that it decreases the amount of effort required. More work is added to the process by removing the previous layer and then laying down a new one. 

What are the Cost Considerations in Roof Replacement?

The cost of a roof is determined by several factors, beginning with the roofing materials you select. Other elements that affect the cost include the roofing contractor you hire, the pitch, and the square footage of your roof.

  • Asphalt roof shingles are a robust yet lightweight roofing technology that resists salt, UV, and mildew and come in colors for outstanding curb appeal. It is worth investing in high-quality asphalt shingles with a 20-year algae-free warranty and a 15-year wind warranty that can be transferred to new owners if the house is sold. Asphalt roof shingles cost $55 per square metre on average.
  • Concrete and clay roof tiles come in colors and profiles to complement both conventional and contemporary home designs. Terracotta roof tiles retain their color even after years of exposure to the elements. Tiles are also long-lasting, performing well in high-wind zones and coastal areas. They won’t rust, distort, or corrode, prevent heat loss, and act as a sound barrier. Concrete and clay are not lightweight materials, trusses must be checked for strength. To keep moss and lichen from growing on your tiles, you may need to spray them now and then. Concrete costs $52 per square metre on average, while clay costs $104 per square metre.
  • Metal roof tiles have the appearance of traditional tiles and shingles, and the average price for metal roof tiles is $50 to $70 per square metre, thanks to UV protection technology and light-fast colors.
  • Slate will provide you with 100 years of service or more. It is resistant to UV rays, salt spray, acid rain, and snow and ice damage. However, slate is a heavyweight roofing material, weighing in at roughly 38 kilograms per square meter, so the structure beneath it needs to be strong enough to support it. Slate roofs cost an average of $280 per square metre.
  • They can be manipulated through all types of architectural curves and corners, giving renovators a vast range of design options. No two pieces are identical, resulting in a unique look each time, and can be manipulated through all types of architectural curves and corners, giving renovators a vast range of design options. Staining or painting wood is also an option. It is a renewable resource that can help insulate buildings more effectively than other materials, lowering energy expenses. Cedar shingles and timber shakes can endure up to ten years longer than other goods if location, climate, and home surroundings are considered. Wood roofs cost an average of $160 per square metre.

Roof replacement costs might vary. There is no typical price because each roof is unique. In Australia, however, the bulk of house re-roofing operations cost between $15,000 and $25,000.

What are the Factors Impacting the Cost of Roof Replacement?

Roofing materials and costs vary substantially. The final cost of a new roof will be influenced by its size and labor costs. Roof design, pitch, access, and environmental hazards are all factors that can increase your expenditures. Asbestos removal is the issue that can nearly quadruple the cost of a roof replacement.

Asbestos Cement Roof

The condition, amount, location, and accessibility of asbestos all play a role in its removal. If asbestos is present in your roofing materials, you should anticipate the cost of a new roof to rise. The asbestos-affected area must be removed by a professional removal company. Asbestos removal costs $250 for removing asbestos from the eaves of your roof to $5,500 for removing asbestos from the complete roof. Check to see if asbestos removal from your roof eaves was included in the original price.

Design of the Roof

If your roof design is sophisticated, roofing materials prices may be higher. You should inquire with your contractor about any particular requirements you have for your roof design that may be pushing up the price. If you aren’t trying to recreate a complex pattern, you may be able to get a lesser charge.

Difficult Site Access

If you live in a difficult-to-reach area or have an inaccessible roof, your roofing prices may rise. Accessing steep rooftops raises prices since your builder faces a greater danger of injury.

Environmental

There are energy-efficient roofing materials available that can help you save money on your cooling expenditures. Furthermore, if you live in a hot region, your roof may need to be composed of heat-resistant materials. For example, due to Australia’s intense sunlight, a synthetic slate tile has been known to break after ten years. 

Labour Costs

Unless you ask your contractor, you may not know the exact labor charges. Find out what the hourly labor rates are and get a final quote indicative of how much effort it may take.

Maintenance Requirements

In most cases, your roofing process will involve the removal of old tiles, but you should double-check that these services are included in the official price before signing. You should inspect the roof every two to five years to keep it in good shape. It’s most likely that the edges will deteriorate first.

Pitch or Angle of your Roof

The cost of a steep roof may be higher due to the labor involved. If the slope is particularly steep, further preparation and specialized safety equipment may be required. Your roof’s slope may necessitate a more sophisticated design.

Roofing Material

Concrete shingles and asphalt shingles are two common roofing materials today. Human-made things are usually the most affordable. The cost of corrugated metal roofing is low, but copper is substantially more expensive. Clay has a nice appearance and is less expensive than a new tile roof. A renovated version of an old timber roof is a fun choice if it fits with the architecture of your home. You can, on the other hand, use a new waterproof membrane roof system.

Size of the Roof

When getting a price, your builder will most likely inquire about the square footage of your roof. As you can assume, a larger roof requires more materials and, as a result, more labor costs.

Conclusion

Your roof not only covers about 40% of your exteriors, but it also functions as a critical structural component for maintaining safe and comfortable living conditions. Periodic maintenance is required to ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible. We can do a complete evaluation of your roofing to establish whether or not re-roofing is required. Our focus is on holistic roofing solutions rather than just patch repair work.

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Can you paint colorbond gutters?

Your gutters seem sad and sagging. Is it time for new gutters, or would a fresh coat of paint suffice? What should you do if your gutters have rusted or seem filthy and old?

Do your gutters detract from rather than contribute to the beauty of your home’s roofline? If you’ve been ignoring your gutters, the answer is often a resounding yes. Old gutters may be made to appear like new again.

The roof is an important part of the home. It binds all of the interior areas underneath it into a single property, protecting everything and everyone within from the outdoors. A roof may seem to be a massive structure “up there,” but it really has a plethora of components that enable it to function, particularly when it comes to water drainage.

The three components that keep moisture out and route it away from the home are gutters, fascia, and downpipes. They can all be constructed of Colorbond metal, but we’ve seen some intriguing variants, such as fascia made of wood.

In any event, depending on the local environment, they may be constantly in touch with water, causing them to rust and decay. By painting colorbond gutters and fascia, they will endure longer and look much nicer, increasing the resale value of the home.

In This Article
painted coorbond gutters - Woodland grey

So can you paint colorbond gutters?

Colorbond is often misunderstood as being unpaintable. This, however, is a myth. Colorbond may be readily repaired and repainted if the proper paint is used and the job is done by an expert.

Painting colorbond gutters and fascia need a specific technique and practice. A homeowner will not be able to complete this procedure on their own. Restoring Colorbond roofing is the responsibility of a certified roofing contractor, and it is essential to search for someone with expertise and understanding in Colorbond roofing.

Colorbond roofing necessitates the use of a metal roofing expert as well as specialized supplies developed especially for painting gutters and fascia. Hiring an inexperienced painter to paint a Colorbond roof will only result in poor-quality work that will cost you money in the long term. Painting gutters and fascia, effort, expertise, and professional Colorbond metal roofing knowledge – don’t take any chances with sloppy work.

Although Colorbond has a ten-year manufacturer’s guarantee, there may be times when you need to repaint it. This could be because of one of the following factors:

  • Over time, there will be fading and discoloration.
  • You’ve had a change of heart because you’re sick of the colour of your fence.
  • Damage from oxidation and chalking – this is uncommon, but it may occur in coastal regions if your fence is not cleaned on a regular basis.
  • Neighbors – You and your neighbor may choose a different colour for your separating fence. Colorbond, however, does not provide a fence with a different colour on each side – as a result, painting gutters and fascia may be the best choice for you.

How do you prepare for painting gutters?

prereparing colorbond guttering for paint, sanding colorbond guttering

Painting colorbond gutters and fascia is not as easy as it sounds. Once you’ve gotten up there, check for indications of peeling, wear, and rust and treat those areas in particular. The aim is to clean the gutters and fascia so that as much of the fresh paint as possible adheres to them. It is necessary to use a few chemicals mixed with sugar soap to remove dirt and sanding to remove rust, as well as power washing.

In severe cases, stripping may be needed to remove the previous coat, which will involve the use of different equipment and knives while ensuring that the metal is not damaged. Moving carefully while attempting to remove as much of the old paint as possible is essential. A variety of rags and chemicals are required, and a particular procedure is in place. As a consequence, the gutter surface is absolutely smooth to the touch.

Painting gutters

If the surface is fresh, some residual lubricants from the roll forming process may be present. These should be deleted as well, following the steps described above. If feasible, gently sand fresh surfaces to improve paint adherence. On older, worn COLORBOND® steel, this is not necessary.

After cleaning the surface, you may immediately overpaint it with two coats (ideally) of a high-quality water-based exterior acrylic. Please adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions. If the steel is being used to collect drinking water, ensure that the paint is appropriate for this purpose by checking with the manufacturer.

It should be noted that overpainting COLORBOND® steel would invalidate any warranties. Should overpainting be performed on behalf of and under the supervision of BlueScope Steel, a future warranty (if any) position will be discussed between the client and BlueScope Steel.

What if you have rusty gutters?

rusted roof guttering in Melbourne

If your gutters have a lot of rust on them, it may be time to replace them. This is particularly true if your gutters are rusting through in many locations and don’t seem to be very sturdy. If your gutters have mild rust, you may use a wire brush to remove the loose rust and then paint the area with rust converter paint to neutralize the rust. 

This may be used as a primer or base coat. Apply roof cement to the rusted area and push some aluminum foil or metal flashing into it. On top, apply another coat of roof cement. This may be a workaround for the time being.

Avoiding Gutter Problems

clogged guttering - leaf filled gutters in Melbourne

Gutter clogging is a common cause of gutters drooping and becoming clogged with debris. You can avoid a lot of gutter issues by preventing them from clogging in the first place, and you won’t have to worry about gutter painting or gutter replacement. To avoid debris accumulation, it’s essential to clear your gutters on a seasonal basis. This accumulation of material may block gutters, causing them to droop under the weight of the sticks and leaves in the gutter. They may also flex outward, causing water to flow onto the siding and the ground.

Clogged gutters may also develop algae and become difficult to clear over time as material adheres to the gutter’s sides. Rust occurs when water pools in a gutter and flows over the edge on a frequent basis.

You may either clean your gutters annually or install a gutter cover to troubleshoot your gutters. A gutter cover is a simple construction that sits on top of your gutters. Gutter coverings that are effective enable water to flow into the gutters while trash falls to the ground below. By avoiding the issue of collecting gutter debris, avoids gutter sagging and discoloration.

Final Thoughts

painting colorbond guttering

So, the answer to the question “can you paint colorbond gutters?” is yes, you can paint colorbond gutters yourself, but it is usually recommended that this hard task be left to the experts.

Roofing is an industry full of cowboys and rogue operators that want to do the job, grab the money, and go, leaving you to repair their poor work. You may either learn painting gutters and fascia yourself or hire professionals with an established track record.

We think that openness is the greatest solution for such a situation and that having more options always leads to greater pleasure. As a result, we try to share knowledge of our painting colorbond gutters and fascia knowledge with you in order to raise the quality of roof care. The quality of our roof care is plain to see—up it’s there.

We are here to get the best out of roofs large and small, from inspection to repair and all in between. Participate in your building’s roof care and make modest, everyday efforts to make your roof positively shine. Begin by contacting us and asking a roof care question; we’ll take it from there.

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