Colorbond roofing is a popular choice in Brisbane for new homes and renovations. Colorbond roofing is durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. That said, if not properly cared for, any roof (including Colorbond roofs) will begin to deteriorate over time. This may lead to serious damage to your roof and require roof repairs or a full roof restoration, not to mention your home or contents damaged by leaks, mould and more. If your roof isn’t properly maintained, it’s possible your home insurance may not cover these costs.
We’ve put together some tips for maintaining and cleaning your Brisbane Colorbond roof to ensure it’s always looking its best and protecting your home.
Inspect Your Colorbond Roof Regularly
Inspect your Colorbond roof regularly to identify any signs of damage, such as rust or corrosion, or loose or missing screws. Repair any damage as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your roof.While Colorbond roofs are generally durable and long-lasting, there are several potential issues that can arise over time. Here are some common problems we find during inspections of Colorbond roofs:
Corrosion on your roof: Colorbond roofs are susceptible to corrosion over time, especially if they are exposed to saltwater or other harsh environments. Corrosion can cause rust spots or holes in your roof, which can lead to leaks and further damage.
- Loose or missing fasteners: Colorbond roofs are attached to your home with screws or other fasteners, and over time, these fasteners can become loose or fall out, causing your roof to become unstable or develop leaks.
- Expansion and contraction: Colorbond roofs expand and contract with changes in temperature, which can cause the fasteners to become loose or the Colorbond panels to warp or buckle over time.
- Poor installation: If your Colorbond roof was not installed correctly, it may not be able to withstand extreme weather conditions or may develop leaks over time.
- Condensation: In humid climates, Colorbond roofs can develop condensation on the underside of the panels, which can lead to rust or corrosion over time.
- Damage from falling debris: Falling debris, such as tree limbs or other objects, can dent or puncture your Colorbond roof, causing leaks or other damage.
To prevent these problems, it’s important to have your Colorbond roof inspected regularly by a professional to identify any potential issues and make necessary repairs. If you notice any signs of damage or wear on your Colorbond roof, you should contact a roofing professional to address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your roof remains in good condition for years to come.
Clean Your Colorbond Roof Regularly
Cleaning a Colorbond roof requires particular equipment and techniques to ensure that you do not damage the roof surface or create any leaks. We recommend using a professional to clean your roof such as the team at Right Roofing but if you decide to DIY we recommend the following:
- Safety First: Always use appropriate safety gear such as gloves, goggles, and slip-resistant shoes when cleaning your Colorbond roof. You may also want to use a safety harness to avoid falling off the roof.
- Step Carefully: walking on a Colorbond roof without damaging it requires you to be careful. Be careful to stay close to seams, wear appropriate soft rubber soled shoes/boots (not hard work boots) and avoid stepping carefully on any debris as it will scratch away the metal’s special coating.
- Remove Debris: Remove any debris such as leaves, twigs, or branches from your Colorbond roof. Use a soft-bristle broom or a leaf blower to sweep away debris from the roof surface.
- Clean the Surface: Use a soft-bristled brush or a pressure washer to clean your roof, starting from the top and working your way down. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the Colorbond coating.
- Apply Cleaning Solution: Apply a cleaning solution to your Colorbond roof. You can either use a commercial cleaner or make a DIY solution of mild detergent and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, as they can damage the Colorbond roof.
- Scrub Gently: Use a soft-bristled brush or a sponge to scrub your Colorbond roof gently. Start from the top and work your way down to avoid streaks. Do not use abrasive materials such as steel wool or wire brushes, as they can scratch the Colorbond roof.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your Colorbond roof thoroughly with clean water to remove any cleaning solution residue. You can use a pressure washer or a garden hose to rinse the roof. Ensure that you do not use high pressure as it can damage the Colorbond roof.
- Dry the Roof: Allow your Colorbond roof to air-dry completely before walking on it. Do not use a towel or a cloth to dry the roof, as it can scratch the surface.
By following these steps, you can keep your Colorbond roof clean and in good condition for years to come.
Check Your Gutters And Downpipes
Clean your gutters regularly to prevent debris buildup that can cause water to back up and damage your roof. Check that your gutters are securely attached to your roof and that there are no visible signs of damage. Check that water is flowing freely along your gutter and through your downpipes by running a hose into your gutters.
Trim Overhanging Trees And Branches
Trimming trees overhanging a roof requires some caution and correct techniques to avoid damaging the roof or injuring yourself. Here are some best practices for trimming trees overhanging a roof:
- Assess the Tree: Evaluate the tree to determine which branches need trimming. You should consider the size, health, and location of the branches before deciding which ones to cut.
- Choose the Right Tools: Use the appropriate tools for the job. A handsaw, pruning shears, or a pole pruner can be used to trim small branches. For larger branches, use a pruning saw or a chainsaw.
- Trim Small Branches First: Start by trimming the small branches that are closest to the roof. Cut the branches at a 45-degree angle, about a quarter-inch above the bud. This will promote new growth and prevent the branch from leaving a stub.
- Trim Large Branches Carefully: When trimming larger branches, make three cuts. First, make a small undercut about 12 inches from the trunk. Second, make a top cut a few inches further out from the undercut. Finally, make a third cut to remove the remaining stub.
- Never Cut the Branch Collar: The branch collar is the swollen area at the base of the branch. Never cut into the branch collar, as this can damage the tree and promote decay.
- Use Caution: When trimming trees overhanging a roof, use caution and take necessary safety measures. Wear protective gear such as gloves, eye protection, and a hard hat. Work with a partner who can assist you with holding the ladder or handing you the tools.
- Hire a Professional: If you are unsure about trimming trees overhanging a roof or if the tree is too large to handle on your own, consider hiring a professional tree trimming service.
By following these best practices, you can safely and effectively trim trees overhanging a roof.
Hire A Professional To Maintain Your Roof
Maintaining a Colorbond roof is not a job that everyone can do easily and if you are unsure about whether it would be safe for you to do it yourself then it makes sense to organise a professional to do this job for you.
If you’re unsure about how to maintain or clean your Colorbond roof, or if you notice any signs of damage, it’s best to consult with a professional roofing company. A professional can provide you with advice on how to properly care for your Colorbond roof and make any necessary repairs.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Colorbond roof remains in good condition and protects your home for many years to come.
If you would like a quote for a Colorbond Roof Restoration {link to page] call our friendly team on 0431 962 819.
