Practical care and maintenance tips for extending your Melbourne roof's lifespan

Your roof is crucial for protecting your home and keeping it strong. After restoring your roof in Melbourne, it's important to take steps to keep it in good condition. With the right care, your roof can last for many years. In this blog, we'll share tips to help you maintain and extend the life of your restored roof.

Tips to extend your roof life

How often should you maintain your roof, and what are the best practices? Here are some simple tips:

• Regular roof inspections

Check your roof at least once a year or after severe weather conditions in Melbourne.

Start by examining the roof from the ground with binoculars to spot missing, cracked, or curling roofing material, as well as any signs of mould, algae, or moss. Inspect gutters and downspouts for debris and ensure they’re securely attached. Also, check your attic for any signs of leaks or water damage, such as stains or mould.

If you’re comfortable climbing a ladder, inspect the roof up close. Pay special attention to areas around chimneys, vents and skylights for damaged flashing. However, roof restoration Melbourne experts suggest not walking over the roof as it can damage the roofing material and can also risk your safety.

Regular inspections help you catch problems early, avoid expensive repairs, and keep your roof in good shape.

• Keep gutters clean

Regular gutter cleaning is essential for roof maintenance. If gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, water will stay on the roof, reducing its lifespan and causing leaks. Blocked gutters can also water pool around your home's foundation, causing damage.

Overflowing gutters attract pests like rodents and insects, creating a warm, inviting environment for them. Also, dirty, damp gutters are breeding grounds for mould, which can spread to your roof.

For a comprehensive guide,  check out our detailed blog on "How to clean your home's roof gutters efficiently."

• Keep your roof clean

Regularly cleaning your roof is essential for maintaining its condition. Leaves, twigs, and dirt can build up, leading to mould and mildew growth. This debris not only affects your roof’s appearance but also weakens its structure.

Cleaning your roof prevents blockages in gutters and downpipes, ensuring proper water drainage and reducing the risk of leaks. In humid climates, moss and algae can grow on a dirty roof, holding moisture and causing the materials to rot.

To extend your roof’s lifespan, clean it with a brush and gentle solution at least once a year, and remove debris and puddles as soon as you spot them. Standing water can cause roofing materials to deteriorate, leading to leaks and other serious damage.

It's best to hire a professional roof cleaner to clean roof using the latest roof cleaning techniques and effective results. 

• Trim trees and plants around your house regularly

Regularly trim any trees and plants near your house, especially branches that hang over your roof. Overhanging branches can scratch the roof and damage its protective layers, while leaves and twigs can clog gutters.

It's suggested to keep branches at least two meters away from the roofline and check for any growth that might block gutters or cause debris buildup during storms.

Use clean, sharp tools to make smooth cuts, and remove any dead or decaying limbs to prevent further damage. Trimming trees and plants regularly makes roof cleaning easier and helps maintain your roof's condition, reducing the need for costly repairs.

How do you choose the best roofing company in Melbourne for roof cleaning, roof restoration and roof repairs?

Whether you're buying a new property or checking the condition of your current one, choosing the right roofing contractors in Melbourne is important. Here's how to make the right choice:

Do your research

Start by researching reputable roofing companies in your area. Use online reviews, ratings, and social media to gather information about their services and customer experiences. Ask friends, family, or neighbours for recommendations.

Check credentials

Ensure the companies you're considering are licensed and insured. Proper credentials protect you and the workers during the roofing process.

Consider experience

Choose a company with a proven track record and experienced roofers who can accurately identify potential problems.

Ask about inspection methods

Enquire about the company's tools and techniques. A good company should use modern methods, like drones for aerial views or infrared imaging, to provide a thorough and accurate inspection followed by tailored roofing solutions. 

What causes roof damage?

Roofs are designed to last, but they need regular care to avoid damage from:

• Environmental elements like hail, wind, sun and rain
• Poor installation practices
• Changes in how the building is used
• Biological growth, like plant debris or algae
• Inconsistent repairs and maintenance

and more. 

What is the average roof lifespan?

Here’s a quick overview of how long different roofing materials typically last:

• Terracotta: 75 years
• Metal roofing: 50-75 years
• Clay and concrete tiles: 50+ years

These are general estimates. The actual lifespan depends on material quality, installation, maintenance, climate, sun exposure and tree coverage. 

Why should you choose Melbourne Quality Roofing for your roofing needs in Melbourne?

When you hire Melbourne Quality Roofing, you’re choosing high-quality service. Here’s why:

• Team of licensed and insured roofers
• Use industry-standard tools and techniques
• Safety rails installed before starting work to protect your home and our team
• Over 25 years of experience in the roofing industry
• Use high-quality roofing materials
• Up to 10 years of workmanship warranty
  

With extensive experience across Melbourne, we’ve provided expert roofing solutions in areas like Burwood, Knoxfield, Forest Hill, and more.

For more information about our roof restoration, repairs, or painting services, call us at 0466 885 133 or email [email protected].