Coastal Gold Coast roofs most often suffer corrosion of steel, fixings, flashings and gutters from salt; wind-driven rain and uplift at edges and ridges; storm leaks from cracked tiles and blocked valleys; lichen and mould from humidity; condensation in poorly ventilated roof spaces; and sand and leaf build-up in gutters. Most are fixed by targeted repairs if caught early.
1. Corrosion
Salt spray is the defining problem for coastal roofs. It attacks:
- Steel sheets, starting at laps, cut edges and around screws.
- Fixings, which can rust and loosen.
- Flashings and valley irons, especially at bends and cut ends.
- Gutters and downpipes, which hold water, salt and sand.
The areas not rinsed by rain corrode first, so the underside of overhangs and the backs of gutters are worth a close look.
Fix: early rust on sound sheets can sometimes be treated. Failed fixings can be replaced with compatible ones. Perforated sheets and gutters need replacing. When replacing, use products rated for the environment; see salt-resistant roofing.
2. Wind uplift and loose components
Strong onshore winds and storm downdraughts put the most pressure on edges, corners and ridges. Common problems:
- loose or missing screws on steel roofs;
- lifted sheets at the eaves and barges;
- loose ridge and hip caps on tile roofs;
- lifted flashings.
Fix: refix with the correct fixings at the correct spacing, re-bed and re-point ridge capping, and check tie-downs. On older homes a re-roof is the chance to bring fixings up to the house's wind classification.
3. Storm leaks
The Gold Coast's storm season brings intense bursts of rain. Leaks commonly come from:
- cracked or slipped tiles;
- ridge capping with cracked mortar;
- blocked valleys and gutters overflowing back into the roof;
- failed flashings at walls, chimneys and skylights;
- rain driven sideways under laps.
Fix: trace the source, which may be well uphill of the stain, and repair it. See roof repairs.
4. Lichen, moss and mould
High humidity and warm temperatures suit lichen and mould, especially on shaded faces and porous concrete tiles. Lichen is mostly cosmetic, but heavy growth can hold moisture and block water paths. Mould in the roof space is a ventilation problem.
Fix: gentle cleaning by someone who knows the roof; improved ventilation; trimming trees. Avoid high-pressure cleaning of old tiles, and never pressure clean asbestos cement.
5. Condensation in the roof space
Warm, humid air meets the underside of a roof that cools at night, and moisture condenses. Signs include water marks on timbers, rusty nails, mould and damp insulation, sometimes mistaken for leaks.
Fix: a blanket under steel roofs, reflective sarking under tiles, roof-space ventilation, and ducting exhaust fans outside.
6. Gutters full of sand and leaves
Coastal gardens drop leaves and palm fronds, and wind carries sand. Blocked gutters overflow into eaves and walls and corrode faster.
Fix: regular clearing, gutter guards where suitable, and properly sized downpipes.
7. Tired tile surfaces
Older concrete tiles lose their surface coating and become porous. In humid coastal conditions they grow lichen and absorb more water, which adds weight and speeds deterioration.
Fix: if tiles are sound, repairs and restoration may help. If porous and crumbling, replacement; see tile roof replacement.
8. Incompatible metals
Mixing metals can accelerate corrosion. Common culprits are copper pipes or runoff onto steel, lead flashings on some products, and trades leaving offcuts and screws on the roof.
Fix: use compatible materials and ask every trade to clean up.
9. Swarf stains
Tiny metal filings from cutting and drilling rust quickly in salt air and leave orange spots. Fix: sweep them off immediately after work; ask the installer to return if they were left.
10. Ageing asbestos cement
Older beachside cottages and sheds often have fibro roofs. Weathered or storm-damaged asbestos cement should be assessed, not cleaned or drilled. Fix: licensed removal and replacement; see asbestos roof replacement.
Who to call for what
Roofers handle the roof covering, flashings, gutters and ventilation. A carpenter may be needed for rotten rafters, an electrician for water near wiring or for solar removal, a licensed asbestos removalist for fibro, and a timber pest inspector if damp timber shows signs of termites. A good roofing contractor will tell you when something is outside their trade.
Prevention routine for coastal homes
- Rinse unwashed areas of steel roofs every few months.
- Clear gutters and valleys before and after storm season.
- Check from the ground after major storms.
- Keep trees trimmed back.
- Have a professional check every few years.
Our inspection checklist sets out what to look for.
When repairs stop making sense
If problems keep returning or are spread across the roof, read signs you need a roof replacement. Call 07 5241 1403 or use the form below for a free inspection.
General information about roofs on the Gold Coast, not advice about your roof. Rules, products and programs change; check with the body named (QBCC, City of Gold Coast, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland) before you act.