How the Wet Winter Could Affect Your Roof – and What to Do?
Adelaide and Melbourne have experienced some serious rainfall this winter. Often, it feels as though the rain comes all at once before easing off, leaving our roofs to bear the brunt of the weather. The good news is, with the right care, you can prevent costly repairs and protect your home.
The Hidden Problem with Moss and Lichen
At first glance, lichen and moss may look harmless—sometimes even adding a touch of charm to a home’s exterior. However, when left unchecked, they can create bigger issues. Moss and lichen thrive in damp conditions and can quickly spread across your tiles and often blocking your water channels in which can create issues with water entering your roofing cavity.
From Water Ingress to Structural Damage
If water makes its way under your roofing surface it can enter the roofing cavity. Over time, this leads to:
- Leaks inside your home – Stains on ceilings and walls are an early warning sign.
- Mould growth – Damp conditions allow mould to thrive, which not only damages your home but can also impact your family’s health.
- Structural damage – Prolonged water exposure can weaken timber beams and supports. Repairing structural issues is often far more costly than routine roof maintenance.
What begins as a small patch of moss can escalate if ignored and not monitored over time.
The Impact of Heavy Rainfall
During heavy downpours, blocked water channels become even more problematic. Unlike a slow drip in light rain or showers, storm-related leaks can cause immediate damage to ceilings, insulation, and even electrical wiring.
In regions like Adelaide and Melbourne, where Winters can bring consistent rainfall, the risk is higher. Roofs that aren’t well maintained simply aren’t prepared for the volume of water that comes with seasonal storms.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Roof
The good news is that most water-related roof issues are preventable with the right care. Here are some steps you can take:
- Schedule Regular Roof Inspections:
If your roof is 15-20 years old, contact Roof Seal® to inspect your roof. Our inspectors are excellent at spotting early signs of moss, lichen, or damage before it possibly could become serious. - Clear Moss and Lichen Promptly:
Don’t let growth build up. Roof Seal® will be able to restore your roof and ensure your water channels remain clear and your roofing tiles have all the possibilities of sufficient water flow and minimising the risk of leaks arising. - Check Your Gutters:
Blocked gutters contribute to water overflow. This is often very visible on the eave lining. Clearing out leaves and debris ensures rainwater flows correctly into a downpipe system and away from your foundations around your home. To keep your gutters clear, have our team at Roof Seal® install our Leafstopper® Gutter Guard, to help the water flow smoothly off your roof and throughout your guttering systems around your home. - Repair Leaks Quickly:
If you notice damp spots, stains, or dripping water inside your home, don’t delay repairs. Quick action can save you from expensive structural work possibly at a later date.
