The summer months often showcase the most excellent parts of the Australian lifestyle, but these conditions can be brutal on your roof. With searing UV, materials can break down quickly, and vast temperature fluctuations can result in thermal shock and extreme bushfire risks. If you are considering a new roof or seeking better performance and safety from your existing roof, here is what you need to know.
Cooling Down
A new roof is an important decision. Careful consideration of the residents’ comfort in temperature and value for money is imperative, not just for the installation, but over the roof’s lifespan. New roof decisions such as material choice and colour can dramatically influence the solar heat gain of your roof. Recent studies show light coloured roofing materials “can lower the air temperature in the roof space by up to 9 degrees”. If maximising cooling properties are important for your building, the choice of roof tile materials will affect the temperature fluctuations and assist in increasing ventilation. In conjunction with material selection, appropriate ventilation is essential to keep your roof and building cool during the hot summer. Without adequate ventilation, heat can build up in your roof space, leading to various problems, including damage to the structure of your roof and increased energy costs, as your air conditioning works harder to compensate for the heat. To ensure proper ventilation, you can install vents along the ridge of your roof, allowing hot air to escape and cooler air to enter. Another effective way to improve ventilation in your roof space is to install whirly birds. These are spinning vents installed on your roof which use the wind to draw hot air out of your roof space. They are a cost-effective and easy way to improve ventilation to help keep your roof and building cool during summer.
Gutter maintenance
Keeping your gutters clean is the best way to ensure that your gutters perform efficiently and safely during the bushfire-prone summer months. It’s simple, but too often overlooked. As leaves and other debris build up throughout the year, your gutters and downpipes become clogged and prevent proper drainage. Clogged gutters cause water damage to your roof and building in heavy rains, and significantly increase the risk of localised fires or bushfires. To ensure any accumulated debris is removed appropriately and safely, it is vital to have the gutters on your property maintained and cleaned routinely, preferably by a professional. In addition, keeping combustible materials, such as firewood or leaf litter, away from your building and roof will help prevent catastrophes,
Each home has unique requirements, so always seek professional advice to ensure you achieve your desired outcome. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your roof is restored and stays in good condition throughout the summer and beyond, so you can safely enjoy everything the Australian summer offers.
