Facts about tiled roofs and repair work

Information on repairing and maintaining tiled roofs

Leaks are usually confined to small areas and caused by one or more of the following problems

Cracked or broken cement mortar bedding to the ridge and hip capping

The capping should be rebedded or repointed.

Cracked or broken roof tiles

Affected tiles should be replaced.

Displaced roof tiles

Returning the tiles to their proper positions should be enough to fix the problem.

Blocked drainage channels under the 'sidelaps' of individual tiles

Any build-up of dirt or debris should be removed.

Flashings blocked, damaged or displaced

Look for and correct these as soon as possible.

Blocked gutters (including valley gutters) and downpipes

Check and clean these out regularly.

Caution: If your roof needs checking or if you have a roof leak, it's best to employ an expert tradesperson to undertake the work for you. Walking around on roofs can be dangerous (and may even cause further damage).

Some hints on what to do if you want your tiled roof repaired or renovated:

Always obtain more than one quote, in writing, for everything except the smallest or most urgent problem and take your time deciding who should do the job. Remember you are allowed to say "no".
Don't be taken in by special prices or promotional offers that require you to sign on the spot.
Be aware that the biggest or best advertisements don't always indicate the best roof restoration firms. Similarly, your local handy person may not necessarily be the best person for the job.
Don't deal with anyone who does not offer their full name and address or who provides only a mobile phone number. Check the White Pages for a listing and, if in doubt, check that the business is properly registered as a company or has a registered business name which can be used to identify the people behind it.
Be aware that a number of companies in the roof restoration industry change hands every few years, making some long term guarantees worthless.
Only employ registered painters for any work involving roof coating (except in areas outside of the jurisdiction of the Painters Registration Board). To ensure that the painter is registered, insist on seeing their current identification card or check with the Board.
Ask for names, addresses and telephone numbers of recent clients so you can obtain references to make sure they were satisfied with the work performed.
Ask for written information and technical data on the paint and sealers to be used.
Ensure the trader has insurance to cover any personal injury or any damage done to your property or your neighbours.
Remove any clause from the contract that suggests that the guarantee is not valid if the owner or any other person walks on the roof.
Never pay a large deposit - 10% is more than sufficient. If the work is to cost more than $7,500 an amount of 6.5% is the legal maximum.
Never pay cash unless you are very certain whom you are dealing with and never let the trader drive you to the bank to get your money.
Always obtain a detailed receipt.
Remember your legal rights or entitlements for 'door to door' sales.
If you do not understand a contract, ask family or friends to check it over with you, before you sign.