1. How do I know if my roof needs resurfacing
The main signs that show your roof needs resurfacing depend on its age and condition. Roof resurfacing is commonly needed as roofs approach 20–25 years in age. Each roof type has different signs showing it may be time to invest in this type of project.
Concrete tiles can become weathered and porous forming pin holes and holding moisture as their surface breaks down.
Metal tiles and steel roofs can become patchy as UV and rain breakdown their current coating. It is common for coatings on these types of roofs to wear thin. This can be seen in the water channels on steel roofs as the coating can become discoloured (lighter in colour). These roof types also show signs of rust. If you live near a beach, you may also notice larger amounts of rust, as corrosion can occur faster in coastal areas. Another common sign observed on Decramastic roofs is loose chip appearing in your gutters.
2. Can I resurface my roof if it is rusty?
Surface rust can usually be treated during preparation; however, widespread or deep rust can only be remedied by replacing the affected sheets or the entire roof area. It’s also important to know, that while most surface rust can be treated, it can sometimes be stubborn and reappear. This will cause the new rust spots to bleed and show through the new paint coating. If this occurs, the recommended solution is to replace the affected roofing materials.
3. Does roof resurfacing help with leaks?
Roof resurfacing can help improve water flow by restoring a smooth, protective surface that allows rainwater to run off more efficiently. This can reduce water pooling and help prevent some surface-level moisture issues. During the repair stage, we will seal or replace any damaged roofing materials, re-screw where fixings are missing, and address any other issues identified. This will help minimise the risk of leaks.
However, resurfacing alone won’t resolve leaks caused by structural problems. If roof valleys are unable to handle heavy rainfall, or if your existing spouting system isn’t sufficient at draining water, water may still back up and find its way inside. In these cases, additional repairs or upgrades would be needed alongside resurfacing to effectively address leaks.
4. How many times can I resurface my roof?
This depends on the age of your current roofing materials, condition of your roof and the quality of previous work.
In general, most roofs can be resurfaced a few of times over their lifespan. With good cleaning, preparation, application and quality paint, you can expect this type of project to provide 10 to 15 years of surface protection.
However, if your roof is nearing the end of its life, it’s important to consider whether it’s worth investing money into resurfacing your roof or whether a roof replacement project is more suitable for long term investment, protection and peace of mind.
5. How long does the resurfacing process take?
Roof resurfacing is a four-step process and is usually completed over several weeks, allowing each stage to be done thoroughly and at the right time for best results.
The first two stages involve cleaning. Stage one is the application of a moss and mould treatment to kill any organic growth and loosen dirt and grime on the roofs surface. This treatment typically takes 30 minutes to an hour to apply, and we generally leave it on the roof for a minimum of three weeks before returning for the next step. Stage two is pressure cleaning, which removes dirt, dead growth, and residue, and usually takes a few hours to complete.
Stage three involves any necessary repairs, which are generally completed within one day to two days, depending on the condition and roof type. The final stage is painting/coating/sealing, which can be completed in one day or over a couple of days, depending on the time of year and weather conditions. This staged approach ensures the roof is properly prepared and the new coating performs as intended.
6. How disruptive is the process?
Roof resurfacing is designed to be a minimally disruptive process, with most of the work carried out externally and with little interruption to your daily routine.
During the cleaning stage, access to an external tap is required. During the painting stage, access to power is needed; however, at Accredited, if power isn’t available, we can use generators to ensure your project continues without issue. If all access points are outside, there is no need for us to enter your home at any stage of the process.
Our team works efficiently and respectfully to keep disruption to a minimum while ensuring the job is completed to a high standard.
7. What maintenance is required after resurfacing?
After roof resurfacing, maintenance is generally minimal, but regular care will help extend the life of the new coating. We recommend applying a moss, mould, and lichen treatment every 2–3 years to help prevent organic growth from breaking down the coating over time. Keeping gutters and valleys clear of debris is also important to ensure proper water flow and prevent unnecessary water buildup.
When you book a resurfacing project with us, you also become part of our maintenance program. We use specialised tracking systems to ensure your roof is continuously monitored and well maintained. This allows us to notify you whenever your roof is due for a treatment or inspection, helping to protect your investment and keep your roof performing at its best for years to come.
8. Will darker paint colours make my home hot?
When choosing a roof colour from our variety of options, you may have concerns about heat absorption or light reflectivity. These factors differ depending on colour.
Darker colours tend to hold more warmth because they don’t reflect the heat the same as lighter colours. Lighter colours reflect more sunlight, which keeps the roofs’ surface slightly cooler, resulting in a slightly cooler home.
If this is a concern, our team can assist you in selecting the most suitable colour for your home and requirements.
9. Should I resurface or replace my roof?
Resurfacing can be a good option to extend the lifespan of your roof, if it’s in good structural condition. It’s a great solution for adding a new protective coating to your roof while also increasing curb appeal.
However, if your roof is showing signs of significant wear or is nearing the end of its lifespan, a roof replacement is the better long-term solution for reliability and durability.
Complete the checklist below to see what project is most suitable for your roof.
Checklist to resurface my roof:
- Is it under 45 years of age?
- Has it been resurfaced less than three times?
- Have I only got only minimal surface rust appearing?
If you answered ‘yes’ to all questions, roof resurfacing is a suitable option for your roof.
10. Is resurfacing cheaper than a full roof replacement?
Yes, roof resurfacing is generally much cheaper than a full roof replacement. In most cases, resurfacing costs around one-third of the price of replacing the entire roof. This makes it a cost-effective option when your roof is still structurally sound, and the existing surface is suitable for restoration. While resurfacing won’t fix major structural issues, it can extend the life of your roofs surface at a fraction of the cost of a full replacement.
Looking for more answers? Visit https://accreditedroofing.co.nz/residential/roof-painting-and-coating/ to explore our frequently asked questions.