Why Maintenance Varies by Roof Material
Your roof is the most exposed part of your home, taking the full force of Canberra's punishing climate - searing summers, freezing winters, hailstorms, strong winds, and intense UV. But not all roofing materials respond to these conditions in the same way, and the maintenance they need differs accordingly.
Understanding the specific maintenance needs of your roof material helps you catch problems early, extend your roof's lifespan, and avoid expensive emergency repairs.
Concrete Tile Roofs
Concrete tiles are the most common roof material across established Canberra suburbs like Kambah, Wanniassa, Kaleen, Florey, and Rivett. Most were installed between the 1960s and 1990s.
Key Maintenance Tasks
- Ridge cap re-pointing (every 10-15 years): The mortar holding ridge caps in place is the most vulnerable component on a concrete tile roof. Canberra's freeze-thaw cycles crack it faster than in warmer climates. Check annually for crumbling or separated pointing.
- Cracked tile replacement (as needed): Walk around your home and look up at the roof from different angles. Cracked, chipped, or missing tiles should be replaced promptly. Keep spare tiles in your garage if possible - matching older tile profiles can be difficult once discontinued.
- Moss and lichen removal (every 2-3 years): South-facing slopes and shaded areas accumulate moss that roots into the tile surface and makes them porous. A high-pressure clean prevents long-term degradation.
- Coating reapplication (every 15-20 years): When the factory coating fades and starts chalking, a professional restoration with primer and two-coat membrane restores the protective layer.
- Valley and flashing inspection (annually): Metal valleys and flashings under the tiles can corrode or shift over time.
Terracotta Tile Roofs
Terracotta tiles are found on many of Canberra's older and more prestigious homes, particularly in Forrest, Griffith, Red Hill, Yarralumla, and Deakin.
Key Maintenance Tasks
- Ridge cap maintenance (every 10-15 years): Same as concrete - the mortar bedding and pointing degrades and needs periodic renewal.
- Gentle cleaning only: Terracotta should be cleaned with low to medium pressure water, not high pressure. Aggressive pressure washing can damage the glazed surface.
- Replacement of broken tiles: Terracotta is more brittle than concrete and can crack from impact. Source replacements from specialist suppliers.
- Avoid unnecessary coatings: Unlike concrete tiles, terracotta does not necessarily need recoating. An uncoated terracotta roof in good condition can last 50 to 75 years without coating.
- Check clips and wire ties: Over decades, tile fixing clips can corrode. Have them checked if your home is 30 or more years old.
Colorbond and Metal Roofs
Metal roofing dominates newer suburbs like Gungahlin, Molonglo, Coombs, Denman Prospect, and Taylor.
Key Maintenance Tasks
- Screw and fixing check (every 3-5 years): Metal roofs are held down by self-drilling screws with neoprene rubber washers. Thermal movement can loosen screws, and rubber washers degrade in UV.
- Gutter maintenance: Metal roofs shed water faster than tile roofs. Keep gutters clear and ensure downpipes are adequately sized.
- Check for scratches: Any scratch through the Colorbond paint layer exposes bare steel to moisture. Touch up with colour-matched paint.
- Ventilation maintenance: Metal roofs are sealed, making adequate roof cavity ventilation especially important.
- Occasional wash down: A gentle wash with plain water once or twice a year keeps the surface clean.
Polycarbonate and Fibreglass Roofing
These translucent materials are commonly used on pergolas, carports, and garage additions across Canberra.
- Clean with mild soap and soft cloth only: Never use abrasive cleaners or high-pressure water on these materials.
- Check for yellowing: UV degrades polycarbonate over time. In Canberra's UV environment, sheets may need replacement every 10 to 15 years.
- Seal edges and fixings: Ensure fixings have proper washers and cut edges are sealed.
General Maintenance for All Roof Types
- Clean gutters at least twice a year
- Trim overhanging branches to at least 2 metres clearance
- Inspect the roof visually from the ground after every major storm
- Address small issues promptly before they become expensive problems
- Book a professional inspection at least every 2 years, or annually for roofs over 20 years old
- Keep records of all maintenance and repairs
Book a Maintenance Inspection
Not sure what condition your roof is in? Our $99 roof inspections provide a detailed assessment of every component, with prioritised recommendations tailored to your roof type. Call (02) 5133 5608 or book online. We cover all ACT suburbs, 7 days a week.
