ROOFTOP VIEWS

Whether you own or maintain a domestic, commercial or industrial property the cost of replacing your roof prematurely is always going to be more than maintaining it. The upkeep of roofs is important and in this article we will dispel some of the myths and discuss major dos and don’ts of roofs.

Inspect Your Roof

To maintain the longevity of your roof and address any problems before they cause more significant structural damage to your building, inspect your roof regularly. Look for anything unusual or irregular, mould, mildew, pooled water or visible damage. It is safer to do this with binoculars than to attempt climbing on your roof, not only is it dangerous but climbing on your roof can damage it.

Do Not Power Wash

A common roof cleaning misconception is that power washers are a good idea. Generally speaking power washers have the potential to cause more damage than they clean. They run at such pressure that they can strip microscopic and transparent protective layers and additionally they can drive water into crevices and fittings. While this might leave your roof looking great, using a pressure washer can create a pathway for future problems to develop.

If you do need to clean your roof, there are specialist roof cleaning products available but it is usually a better idea to hire a qualified professional to make sure the job is done right first time around. The added bonus of hiring a professional is that they can give you an appraisal of any other roofing issues that might need attention.

Remove Debris

Leaves, branches and other debris should be removed from your roof at your earliest convenience. Blocked guttering can cause a multitude of problems including pooling. Pooling in gutters creates excess weight that will wear down on the structural integrity of the roof over time. Additional organic and non-organic debris can accumulate moisture and lead to the propagation of mould. Be particularly wary of valleys in roofing between two joining slopes as debris here can lead to pooling during storms that increases the likelihood of water finding a way through your roof.

Fix Problems Early

The cost of reroofing is usually going to be greater than the cost of repairs unless you have several problems. It is worth considering reroofing if you do have an old roof with lots of problems but it is better to let an expert make this assessment. Some roofing problems can be fixed relatively cheaply, but all roofing problems run the risk of developing into more serious problems if they are not dealt with quickly and efficiently. 

Contact Ideal Roofing to Inspect, Maintain and Repair Your Roof

Learn more about our preventative maintenance program at idealroofing.com.au/roofpreventativemaintenance

​Ideal Roofing have more than 40 years of experience with roofs in Sydney. We are one of the largest companies in the industry and work with commercial, industrial and residential properties. We offer a complete range of roofing services and can give you a free quote today. Call us on (02) 9525 2066 or contact us online.

Metal Roofing – the Latest Australian Roofing Trend​

The Sydney roofing market has been dominated by a trend that is fast sweeping across the whole country; metal roofing. Metal roofing has been gaining immense popularity over the last several years for both practical and aesthetic reasons, resulting in a huge percentage of new roofs being constructed out of metal roof sheeting. This new shift towards the use of aluminium, steel and tin roofing has occurred due to a number of factors that we would like to discuss.

PERFECT FOR THE HARSH AUSTRALIAN CLIMATE

Australia's environmental and geographical diversity is what truly makes our country so special. In every corner of our country, there is a new world with distinctive characteristics and character. The lush rainforests of Far North Queensland, the sprawling metropolis of Melbourne, the harsh deserts of Central Australia; we truly have it all.
It is for this reason that Australian homes and businesses require roofing materials that can stand up against a diverse range of weather conditions. Metal roofing is the perfect solution to any and all of the challenging weather conditions that properties face throughout Australia, providing a safe, comfortable home all year round. Their weather resistant properties have led to a surge in popularity for all areas of the country.

Living in a hot, climate susceptible to bushfires? No problem at all; steel roofing is non-combustible and, therefore, fire resistant. Are you sick of those cold winter nights in the country? Simply install aluminium roofing for its heat conducting properties. Worried about hurricane level winds? Metal roofing will keep you safe with uplift ratings generally ranging between 180 – 260 km/h. Metal roofing sheets are also superior when it comes to protecting your dwelling from rain, hail or snow thanks to their moisture-shedding systems.

LIGHTWEIGHT

Unlike other traditional roofing sources, metal sheeting is an extremely lightweight material. This sleight yet sturdy material has proven to be a hit thanks to how easy it is to transport and install. For example, most varieties of sheeting are approximately one eighth of the weight of traditional concrete tiling used for roofing. This makes roof installation a breeze for contractors, saving you time and money. In most cases, you can even install steel sheeting directly over your old roofing instead of completely dismantling your old roof.

GET THAT INDUSTRIAL LOOK

Metal sheeting also provides aesthetic benefits for your home if used appropriately. Using roofing sheets throughout your home for different applications can transform bland living spaces into ultra-modern chic areas. This new and innovative usage of metal roofing is sure to increase the value of your home in no time at all.

In need of a new roof or extensive roofing repairs in Sydney? 

Contact Ideal Roofing to discuss your available options and to learn more about the finer points of metal roofing.

​Give Your Home an Industrial Makeover with Metal Roofing

Roofing sheets can be used in a number of ways to help give your home a more industrial look and feel.Adding an industrial look to your home is all about combining unpredictable and gritty urban elements into your home and breaking away from the traditional housing mould. By strategically fitting and placing metal sheets inside and outside your property, you can bring a modern chic element into otherwise clean and classic home designs.

The team at Ideal Roofing has compiled a list of great tips on how to turn your seemingly innocuous roofing sheets into the lynchpin of your new industrial property.

UPCYCLE OLD FURNITURE

Upcycling is the practice of repurposing old, unused things around your home into new and exciting household items. A great way to add an industrial feel to any home is by upcycling old furniture by adding metal roof sheets for that chrome urban aesthetic that you’re going for. Taking a more traditional, upmarket piece and transforming it into steampunk-esque home décor using metal roofing will give your pad the fresh, industrial look that you’re after.

ALTERNATIVE FUNCTIONS

Using materials in your home for functions that they are not originally intended can add a new element to any space. For instance, use metal sheeting to create utensil holders in your kitchen or use them to craft a magnetic frame board that gives off industrial vibes.

CAREFULLY PLAN YOUR DESIGN

One of the keys to maintaining an industrial look is to carefully plan and design your home while still maintaining a sense of listlessness. Carefully curate your home by choosing the right location for your metal sheeting. Make sure that your additions are in a place that will be seen while still not making it too obvious to the naked eye. Ensure that it doesn’t look like a centrepiece, while still not seeming like an afterthought.

USE ROOFING SHEETS AS A CONTRAST

By using metal roofing as an accent against more traditional furniture and décor, your home will get a fresh shakeup that guests will adore. Take areas of your home that are on the posh side and add a roofing sheet to give them the slight tinge of grunge that you desire.

BENEFITS OF METAL ROOFING

USING METAL ROOFING SHEETS ON YOUR ROOF IS THE ULTIMATE STATEMENT OF INDUSTRIAL DESIGN. AS WELL AS THIS, YOUR BRAND NEW ROOFING WILL BOAST A NUMBER OF GREAT BENEFITS.

• Long life
• Protection in any weather
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Greater thermal performance and energy efficiency

Looking to add an industrial look to your Sydney home? 

​Contact the experts at Ideal Roofing today to discuss your home makeover.

​
Dealing with Asbestos in Your Roof

If you suspect that you’ve found asbestos in your home or place of work, it is imperative that you act straight away to ensure the safe removal of the material. Exposure to asbestos can be potentially fatal through a raft of respiratory diseases, but this is only after prolonged periods of time. If you have found asbestos in your walls, tiles, garage or attic, it is essential to not panic and to follow a few simple steps we have put together.

At Ideal Roofing, we specialise in professional asbestos removal and roofing replacement, having dealt with numerous cases of asbestos. Through our professional experience, we have gained a unique insight into the proper procedures and methods of asbestos recognition and removal.
Here is our advice for what to do next.

DO NOT TOUCH IT

ASBESTOS THAT IS NOT DAMAGED OR FRACTURED IS NOT LIKELY TO CAUSE ANY IMMEDIATE THREAT TO YOU OR ANYONE ELSE IN ITS VICINITY. THE BEST COURSE OF ACTION IS TO NOT TOUCH THE AREA AND DEFINITELY DO NOT TRY TO REMOVE ANY OF THE SHEETING. SAWING OR CUTTING THE ASBESTOS WILL MAKE THE FIBRES AIRBORNE, LEADING TO A HAZARDOUS SITUATION.WHAT IF I ACCIDENTALLY BREAK ASBESTOS?

If you do accidentally shatter any of the asbestos, releasing fibres into the air, the safest way to deal with it is by wiping up any dust with a damp paper towel or cloth, place it in an isolated garbage bag and throw it in your bin. Please do not use a normal vacuum cleaner when cleaning up any debris.

CALL AN EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL

We do not advise anyone who has found asbestos to try to remove it themselves. This job should be left to a licensed professional who has experience in prudent asbestos removal practices. This is a point that we cannot stress enough.

Instead of attempting removal, call professional asbestos removalists. They will properly assess the area and devise a plan for removal and replacement.

Ideal Roofing has been dealing with roofing asbestos removal in Sydney for well over a decade, having successfully managed numerous clients through this difficult period. Our experienced team is always more than willing to guide you through every necessary step and provide the services you need.

ASBESTOS IN PUBLIC AREAS

If you have found asbestos in a public area, you have a civic responsibility to report your findings to the appropriate bodies. In New South Wales, it is commonplace to contact the necessary State and Local Government bodies to alert them to the problem. We suggest looking up the Environmental Health Officer of your council as a first port of call. If you have found asbestos in a workplace, the best course of action is to management and their work cover if nothing is done.

 Contact Ideal Roofing for further enquiries and assistance regarding asbestos removal in Sydney.

In this day and age it is both timely and necessary that everybody is aware of the environmental impact of the materials they use and surround themselves with. Naturally, this extends to roofing and interestingly the type of roof a structure has can play a significant role in determining how environmentally friendly that building is due to factors like energy efficiency and the greenhouse effect. In this article we will briefly explain and discuss some of these key points.

Solar Panels

If you are considering building a new roof or replacing an existing one, definitely consider having solar panels installed to reduce the environmental impact of the building. Producing your own electricity means you depend less on polluting fossil fuels.

The Greenhouse Effect

The Greenhouse Effect describes what happens when radiation from the sun becomes trapped in the Earth’s atmosphere. We are taught to think about this from the perspective of gases in the atmosphere that trap radiation but the effect is more nuanced than that. The Greenhouse Effect can also be used to describe how much solar radiation is absorbed or reflected by your roof. If it is absorbed it will cause the house to warm, which has the added impact of potentially requiring more cooling, demanding more energy usage.

Reflecting solar radiation back into space is therefore not only good for the planet but also good for your property and your electricity bill. Traditionally, this approach would imply that a white roof is a better choice than a black one, and there is some truth to this idea but the reality is that solar radiation covers a much broader spectrum than just visible light.

Thankfully, to make the task of reflecting solar radiation easy, some very clever scientists have invented roof coatings that are designed specifically to reflect a broad range of solar radiation. These coatings come standard with modern metal roofing although they can also be applied to almost any roofing material and are a very smart investment.

Recyclability

When roofs made of stone, terracotta or asphalt degrade there is little chance of recycling that material back into roofing material. Metal, on the other hand, is almost infinitely recyclable under the right conditions. Given enough time, however, every roof will need to be replaced so the question of what happens to that material afterwards and where it came from is worth considering.

Living Roofs

If you fancy yourself a complete devotee to the environmentally conscious movement, you should consider the possibility of a living roof. This could mean living partially underground in a home fit for a hobbit or actually growing a garden on your roof. Beware though, most existing houses and roofs are not designed to handle the extra weight or stress of having a garden retrofitted and therefore this idea should only be considered in close communication with an architect. 

Contact Ideal Roofing for Expert Advice on Roofing

​Environmentally conscious innovators are constantly redefining the market of what is possible in roofing and Ideal Roofing is one roofing company in Sydney that is staying on top of the ball. We are excited by innovation and keen to implement it so if you want to make your roof an environmentally friendly one we are keen to help. Call us today for a free quote on (02) 9525 2066 or contact us online.

​Deciding on your ideal roof might seem like a challenge. It is a big investment and it will be strikingly visible to the outside world. It’s easy to spend a lot of time debating fittings, cupboard handles and sink design but choosing the right roof is often a decision that gets left to the last minute. In this article we will discuss some key considerations for getting the perfect roof for your house.

Colour

In some respects, colour is a topic that is quite individual. It will depend upon the colour of your walls, your neighbourhood and how much you want your house to stand out, both from the street and from the air.

Despite that, some colour choices are definitely more environmentally friendly than others. A white roof will reflect more solar radiation back into the atmosphere and space than a black roof. This also means a white roof will heat up in the sun more slowly, and this is important for Sydney where it can get quite hot as a hot roof means the air conditioner will probably be running more in summer and that is going to cost you money.

MATERIAL     

There are plenty of different materials you could employ to build a roof, but for the sake of this article we will only discuss three of the most common. If you are interested in other options talk to a roofing specialist.

SLATE

Slate is a popular choice for roofing because it can last a very long time and is resistant to rot and mould. The main drawbacks of slate roofing are that it requires extra framing to support the extra weight and can be quite expensive.

Asphalt
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Asphalt shingles are the cheapest and most common roofing tile choice. They are relatively lightweight, come in a great variety of colours and are easy to install. However, due to their weight they are also liable to blow off in windy conditions.

Metal

Metal is extremely lightweight, recyclable and highly reliable. They are fire-safe, durable and require significantly less maintenance than roofs with tiles. They also have an extremely long life span and can be coated in a range of environmentally friendly radiation reflective coatings.

Durability

The lifespan of your roof is directly related to two key factors. Professional workmanship and choice of material. If your roof is installed by an amateur it probably won’t last as long as the material should.

Metal, cedar and slate roofs should last in excess of 50 years. Asphalt tiles might be cheaper but can only be expected to last in the vicinity of half of that time, so consider that you will be purchasing another one in the lifetime of the building.
Major weather events and falling objects can naturally significantly affect the lifespan of your roof. If you are worried about overhanging branches, contact an arborist. 

Professional Installation is Key

Once you have decided on the perfect roof for your home it is imperative to have it installed by a roofing professional. It is the only way to ensure safety and durability because roofing is very much a trade where you don’t know what you don’t know. Poor installation can damage materials, and greatly increases the risk of the roof failing and letting water into your home.

Additionally, choose a quality company that has a wide range of experience across the roofing sector. A company that installs commercial, industrial and domestic roofing products is good, and a company that also maintains and repairs all roofs is better.

Contact Ideal Roofing to get your Ideal Roof Today

If you would like an expert roof consultation from one of Sydney’s biggest roofing companies, look no further than Ideal Roofing. Not only can we build and install the finest metal roofs, but we also service, maintain and repair them to the highest standard. Contact us today and we will set up an appointment right away. Call us on (02) 9525 2066 or use our online form.

Roofs only have a limited lifespan. Even the best roof will only last a hundred years, and humans have been building houses for thousands so it is inevitable that roofs will need to be replaced eventually. It can be a considerably costly endeavour but choosing to do it at the right time, rather than paying for repair after repair, can save you money in the long run. In this article we will discuss some key points to consider when deciding on whether to replace or repair your roof. If you are in doubt, it is always better to have an inspection performed by a qualified roofing specialist.

When to Repair Your Roof

Every roof install should come with a warranty and an expected lifespan. If you are still within your warranty when you notice a problem with the roof, a repair should definitely be the first point of call. Most warranties will expire before the roof itself does, so if the roof is still in pretty good condition, get it repaired.
Spot damage, caused by mould or rot is not a cause to have your whole roof replaced. Similarly, chance encounters with falling objects like tree branches should not lead you to replace your roof unless the damage is so substantial a repair is basically a rebuild anyway.
Chances are good that the serviceman you employ to repair your roof will be able to provide a roofing inspection at the same time. Given that roofing troubles have a tendency to start small and get worse, even if you aren’t aware of a problem that needs repairing employing a quality roofer to perform an inspection is not a bad idea.

When to Replace Your Roof

A roof should be replaced when repairs are going to cost more or be required too frequently. If it feels like you are calling someone in to repair your roof every other week then it is time to get a new one.
Curled or cracked shingles are a good sign your roof needs to be replaced. As is a steady build-up of roofing materials in your gutters several years after their installation.

SAGGING ROOF

If your entire roof is sagging it is an extremely bad sign. This points to structural problems and this should be addressed immediately.

The Advantage of a Metal Roof Replacement

Replacing your roof with a metal roof can be a very wise decision because it can be mounted on top of your existing roof. It might sound strange, but it means that the existing thermal insulation properties of your heavier tiled roof can be preserved and less waste is generated.

Contact Ideal Roofing for a FREE consultation now.

Ideal Roofing are experts in the roofing industry with more than 40 years of experience across the commercial, industrial and residential sectors. We offer a full range of roofing services including consulting, installation, maintenance, service and repair. Crucially we are trained and accredited in removal of fibre concrete or asbestos laden roofing in a safe manner. Call us on (02) 9525 2066 or use our online form to book your appointment.

It is a simple fact of life that most people don’t spend a lot of time inspecting their roofs for problems. Even if you do spend a lot of time looking at your roof it’s difficult to see all of it considering so much is above eye level. If you have concerns regarding your roof it is best to have it inspected by a professional, even before a problem may become evident. In this article we will discuss some common types of roof damage and explain why it is important to get any problems addressed quickly.

Pooling water

Pooling water anywhere on your roof is a problem. It should be investigated as soon as possible to avoid the problem propagating to internal problems of water damage.

Punctures and Penetrations

Roofing involves several layers and they are all liable to be damaged by hail, wind and falling debris. Areas of roofing surrounding penetrations, such as air intakes, chimneys and sunlights are particularly prone to damage and should be inspected regularly.

Lack of Maintenance

Unfortunately roofing requires considerably more maintenance and upkeep than most building owners dedicate to the task. Even if you don’t have a problem now, if it has been years since you have performed any roof maintenance it is best to hire a professional to give you peace of mind.

GUTTERING

Gutters should be cleaned regularly for more than just aesthetic reasons. Clogged guttering can be a fire risk but more commonly, it creates undue stress on the edge of your roof. It causes the gutters to drain slowly, leads to contamination of water tanks with organic residues.

TREES

Overhanging trees can cause significant damage to roofs. Not only do limbs pose the problem of potentially falling and causing significant damage during a storm but continual rubbing can loosen roof components or destroy protective surface coatings. If you are concerned about any overhanging trees you should contact a qualified arborist to perform a thorough inspection.

PESTS

Birds, possums, rats, mice and termites can all cause significant damage to internal and external structures. If you are concerned about any of these pests talk to an expert about having them relocated or dealt with.

Don’t let Small Problems Grow

Roofing problems are not going to fix themselves. Indeed, they are one problem best considered by the age old adage of a stitch in time saves nine. Any small concern or visible damage should be investigated by a qualified professional before the problem snowballs. A small repair is always going to be cheaper than having a whole roof replaced.

Contact Ideal Roofing to Fix Your Roof

Ideal Roofing are roof maintenance professionals based in Sydney. With more than 40 years of experience working in industrial, commercial and domestic roofing and are experts at installing, servicing, fixing and maintaining roofs. Though we specialize in metal roofing we have plenty of experience servicing other materials too. If you need your roof fixed in Sydney call us today on (02) 9525 2066 or contact us online.

Is It Time to Repair or Replace My Roof?

Like all man made structures, roofing only has a limited lifespan. No matter how durable your roof is, it will eventually need to be repaired, upgraded or completely replaced. Understanding and recognizing the obvious signs that your roof has reached this point will ensure that your home or business stays safe in case of an unexpected emergency.

At Ideal Roofing, we are passionate about informing everyday Australians about the ins and outs of our industry; domestic and commercial roofing. Read through our latest post to learn about the signs of roof deterioration and how to best respond to it.

Signs of Roof Deterioration

WATER LEAKS

One of the most obvious signs of roofing deterioration is multiple leaks throughout your property. Look for yellowish stains and peeling paint on the top floors of your home or business to easily spot any leaks. Also inspect door and window frames for any stains that could indicate recent water damage.

SHINGLE DETERIORATION

Curled shingles are a sure sign that they have started to shrink and become severely weakened. After curling, it is only a matter of time until they become complete detached from your roof, leaving your property susceptible to water entry and subsequent damage. If you’ve noticed that your shingles are starting to curl, it is imperative that you act soon to fight off future problems.

MOSS GROWTH

Moss growth may give your roof a quaint, rustic look, but this seemingly innocuous growth can lead to major roofing problems. Widespread moss growth can damage your shingles and open your property up to potential water damage.
Questions to Ask Yourself

After noticing numerous signs of a damaged roof, you must decide whether to settle for roof repairs or to install an entirely new roof.

Here are 3 pertinent questions which should be considered.

HOW BIG OF AN AREA NEEDS REPLACEMENT?

Minor roof damage over a small surface area should be easily repairable at a low cost. However, widespread damage or multiple damaged areas should be treated differently. Having various different water leaks throughout your roof is a sure sign that your roof is past its used-by date and should be completely overhauled.

HOW OLD IS MY ROOF?

The lifespan of your roof will vary depending on the material used and the area you live in, from 10 up to 60 or more years. Consider how long your roof has been standing for, the materials that were used, and the era in which it was built in. If the decades are starting to pile up, it may be time to completely replace the roof over your head.

WHAT’S THE ADDITIONAL COST TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE ROOF?

It is crucial to look at this problem as a long-term venture. While repairing your roof may be the cheaper option, you may save money in the long run by simply replacing it now. If repairing your roof is not materially cheaper than a complete replacement, it would be a wise move to consider an entirely new roof installation.

 Have you been thinking that your property’s roofing needs to be repaired or replaced? 

Contact Sydney’s roofing specialist for a hassle-free assessment today.