Roofing

Roof inspections, leak tracing, tile and metal repairs, gutters, flashing, insulation, and replacement planning.

LeaksTilesMetalGuttersFlashing

Learn it properly

Roofing guides

3 published

01R

Roofing · 45–90 min inspection

How to find and fix a roof leak

Trace the water path, inspect the highest likely entry point, and repair the cause—not only the stain.

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02R

Roofing · 20–45 min diagnosis

Why is there a water stain on my ceiling after rain?

Use timing, location and weather clues to separate a roof leak from gutter overflow, plumbing trouble or roof-space condensation.

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03R

Roofing · 30–60 min diagnosis

Why are my gutters overflowing and how do I fix it?

Work out whether the restriction is in the gutter, outlet, downpipe or underground stormwater route before cleaning, altering or replacing anything.

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A sound starting point

What to check first

Roof faults are easiest to solve when you follow water uphill and inspect every change in plane or material. Safety and correct access come before diagnosis.

Start inside

Map stains, damp insulation and drip paths during or soon after rain, then inspect above and uphill outside.

Check the details

Flashing, valleys, ridges, penetrations, fasteners, laps and gutters cause more leaks than intact field material.

Avoid sealant-only repairs

Replace damaged components and reinstate the intended overlap or flashing detail before using compatible sealant.

South Africa · Australia · New Zealand

Regional context

Roof design and maintenance must reflect local wind, rainfall intensity, hail, salt, heat, frost, snow and bushfire or wildfire exposure. Product laps, fixings, underlays and flashings may differ by region, pitch and building height, so use current local requirements and manufacturer documentation.

Plan the work

A better project brief

Map drainage capacity

Follow each roof plane to valleys, gutters, sumps, outlets and legal discharge points. Overflow routes should avoid doors, walls and concealed cavities.

Catalogue penetrations

Record chimneys, vents, skylights, solar mounts, antennas and services with their flashing system, condition and access needs.

Plan lifecycle access

Future cleaning, coating, fastener replacement and inspection need safe access. A detail that cannot be maintained is likely to be neglected.

Common questions

Roofing quick answers

Why does a roof leak only in strong wind?+

Wind-driven rain can travel sideways or uphill beneath laps and flashings, exposing defects that calm vertical rain does not reach.

When is a roof unsafe for DIY inspection?+

Avoid steep, wet, brittle, high or unfamiliar roofs and any roof near overhead services. Use a qualified contractor with safe access.

How often should roof flashings be checked?+

Inspect at least annually and after severe weather, adjusting frequency for roof age, trees, coast, corrosion, previous leaks and the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.

Does a new roof need maintenance?+

Yes. Keep drainage clear, inspect penetrations and coatings, remove incompatible debris and follow warranty requirements from the beginning.

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