Timber iQ August - September 2019 // Issue:45 | Page 10

ASSOCIATIONS
Maintaining your roof:
the importance of inspections
Although the importance of a roof structure as a component of a
building and its functioning cannot be overstated, it is possibly one of
the most neglected parts of a building.
By ITC-SA
ROOF EXTERIOR
When it comes to the roof’s exterior, be sure to check for any
cracked roof tiles, loose sheeting and loose roof screws. These
may cause leaks, which have the potential to cause damage to
the interior timber of the roof structure and prompt or
accelerate wood rot. At the same time, look for open areas
around newly installed antenna shafts and chimneys; while
waterproofing should be installed to prevent any leaks, the
condition of the waterproofing membranes must also be
inspected regularly. Crumbling chimney mortar could also
signal moisture penetration and will need to be reapplied.
Timber roof overhangs are most susceptible to the
elements and should be maintained regularly to prevent
fungal attack or rot from moisture. Loose fascia boards and
leaking gutters are the most common cause of leaks onto
roofing timber. On this note, be alert to any creeper plants
growing onto the overhanging roof timbers. Keep all gutters
free from debris and make sure the downpipes are draining
properly by water testing them.
If the roof exterior is beginning to collect moss or algae,
consider installing zinc or lead control strips to help control
the problem. These strips form harmless zinc oxide when
rainwater runs over them, in so doing, carrying with it a
coating preventing further moss or algae growth.
8
AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2019 //
W
hile some roof systems call for less maintenance
than others, all roofing systems should be checked
periodically and maintained accordingly. Here the
Institute for Timber Construction South Africa (ITC-SA)
weighs in.
As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure, and the
best preventative measure one can implement in the care of a
roof structure is to conduct regular inspections to help identify
and remedy problems as and when they occur. A roof
withstands more from the elements than any other component
of a building and the frequency of roof inspections and
maintenance is dependent on the geographical location of the
given building; if the structure is close to the sea or in
similarly harsh conditions, it will need greater care than a
structure inland, for example.
That said, preventative maintenance is pivotal in saving
money on a roof by providing a longer service life.
The following offers a guideline towards maintaining a
safe and secure roof structure for years to come:
It is important for all roofing systems to be checked periodically
and maintained accordingly.
Check all flashings, making sure they are not deteriorated and
be sure to secure or replace any loose shingles. Trim back any
overhanging tree branches and check any metal on the roof
for signs of rust. Pay attention to all caulking and sealants,
and scrape and remove any caulking that is weathered,
cracked or damaged and reapply. If the roof has gravel
surfacing, be alert to any bare spots, otherwise, check for
blisters in the roofing material.
Salt or dirt build-up can encourage rust on steel roofs and
moss and lichen growth on tiled roofs. Some manufacturers’
warranties advise regular washing, particularly in areas that
don’t receive frequent rain. Frequent washing and inspection
are advised to prevent salt and dirt build-up. Exposed timber
trusses must be treated for exposure to the elements.
ROOF INTERIOR
Cracked timber components in the roof structure are the first
warning signs that something within the roof structure is
deteriorating. Inspect all the components of the roof
structure after new services, like plumbing, electrical and/or
a fireplace are installed. Check the interior of the roof for any
leaks; these may be indicative of a leaking roof membrane.
If timber is beginning to show signs of rot, painting it will
only worsen the situation. In this case, it is advisable to
replace the affected timber. Painting and repainting should
only be done on healthy timber surfaces. Be sure to adhere to
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