Adelaide roofing made of concrete tiles, though long lasting, can require a little bit of maintenance to preserve their durability. This involves cleaning, repairing, repainting, and resealing the roof surface. Though the process can be fairly simple, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure it goes smoothly.
Failing To Properly Pressure Clean the Roof Before Starting Restoration
Concrete tiles, and terracotta tiles in particular, are prone to collecting debris, dirt, mildew, and algae. This organic waste is built up over years and years of exposure to the outer elements.
Therefore, before the roof restoration process can begin, the entire roof’s surface must undergo a water pressure cleaning.
For optimal cleaning, pressure washers can be set at anywhere from 1,200- 3,000 psi and fitted with a spray nozzle. Depending on the strength of the spray, cleaners must be careful not to hold the nozzle either too far away from the tiles, where a thorough clean won’t be a achieved, or too close, where tiles could be damaged.
Using Replacement Tiles of a Different Age or Model Than Previous Tiles
The older the roof, the more likely it is that certain tiles will need replacing. Ideally, spare tiles from the original installation of the roof would be used to replace any broken tiles. If these tiles are unavailable, the next best option is to find tiles of a similar model, material, and age. Not every tile is made alike.
To ensure a seamless seal and fit, any new tiles must be shaped in the same way as the older tiles. An improper fit can lead to leaking, heavy dirt build-up, and a higher likelihood of tile damage.
Using Tiles That Haven’t Been Properly Cured
Before a concrete tile can be used, it must be cured in order to avoid cracking or chipping. Curing is the process of strengthening the composition of the tile, making it sturdier and harder by applying heat. Concrete tiles, which are made of water, cement, and sand, require curing at an approximate temperature of 60 degrees Celsius.
The tiles spend a few days on wooden shelves curing in a dry, sealed environment at the optimal temperatures. The tiles must be kept off the ground and on a level surface to avoid warping. After a few days, the tiles are ready for transport and subsequent installation.
Concrete tiles continue curing over time, growing sturdier with age even after being laid. That said, these tiles are in the best condition to be laid after a year of curing in a controlled temperature environment.
Colour Coating Over Spray on Capping Tiles Along Roof Edges
When the time comes to apply a colour coating, a spraying system may be used to ensure an even coat is applied to the tiles. This pigmented waterproof coating not only provides a protective barrier against weathering, but also restores faded colouring. This coating is usually a heavy-duty acrylic paint, which means over spray can be a very messy consequence.
To avoid getting paint where it doesn’t belong (for instance, along brick walls or siding), you should paint the tiles along the edges of the roof by hand.
Tile Damage During Restoration
Though the restoration process is about ensuring and extending the longevity of the roof, tile roofs are susceptible to incurring damage during the inspection and restoration process.
Despite curing, tiles can be extremely fragile and intolerant to uneven distributions of weight. To reduce the likelihood of cracked and chipped tiles, those working directly on the surface of the roof must be aware of where and how they place their body weight.
Walking along edges or unprotected tile is risky and dangerous, which is why foam or sheets of plywood may be laid over the roof to facilitate time-consuming jobs like repairing and replacing broken tiles, re-pointing ridge capping, and applying coats of sealant and paint by hand.
Every once in a while it’s a good idea to check up on the state of your roof. Broken tiles must be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage such as leaking. If you inspect your roof regularly, when the time comes to do a more thorough restoration you’ll be able to make the most of it.
At around the 15-year mark it’s a good idea to look into doing a complete restoration to extend the life of your roof.
To determine what level of restoration your roof needs, contact your local Adelaide roofing service at (08) 8343 5988 to receive a free in-home assessment.
