Clean the gutters at least once a year and before winter, have the roof inspected once a year and after severe weather, and re-point or repair the ridge when it cracks. Older roofs and roofs under trees benefit from more frequent checks.
A simple schedule
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| Every year, before winter | Clean the gutters and downpipes. Look at the roof from the ground. Book an inspection. |
| After a major storm or hail | Look for slipped tiles, loose caps and debris. Call if you see damage. |
| When pointing cracks | Re-point or re-bed the ridge. See ridge capping repairs. |
| When moss or lichen spreads | Wash the roof and treat it. See roof cleaning. |
| When paint fades or chalks | Plan a restoration. See restoration. |
| Before buying or selling | Inspect the roof and roof space. |
What you can check from the ground
- Tiles out of line, or missing.
- Gaps or cracks along the ridge line.
- Plants or moss growing in the gutter.
- Rust streaks below the gutter or fixings.
- Stains on ceilings and walls inside, especially after rain.
Do not climb the roof yourself. Take photos with a zoom lens and send them to us, and we will tell you what looks worth checking.
Trees and shade
Roofs under trees collect leaves and grow moss. Gutters need clearing more often, and the shaded side stays damp. Trim branches that touch the roof.
Why bother
A cracked tile costs little to replace. The same tile, left a few winters, soaks the batten and sarking and then the ceiling. Small and regular is cheaper than large and late. Book an inspection or call 0430 545 669.
A few more questions
Do new roofs need maintenance?
Yes, though less. Gutters still need clearing, and new ridge pointing can crack as the frame settles.
How much does maintenance cost?
A gutter clean and inspection cost far less than the repairs they prevent. Call for a price.
Can I do any of it myself?
Ground-level checks, yes. Roof work is dangerous, and walking on tiles breaks them.