A19 ROOF CERTIFICATION 

Building legislation requires that any new roofing structure has to be certified by a structural engineer before the building inspector will sign the project off as being completed. 

The Roof Engineer issues an A19 Structural Certificate which certifies that the structure has been installed to SABS standards or higher. 

The appointment of an engineer is usually done when the building plans are submitted to the council for scrutinization but, sometimes we find structures like pergolas, verandas, car-ports and even braai rooms being built without plans being submitted to Cape Town Building offices.

When problems do eventually occur on the roof covering, for example, if the sheets are rusted and need to be replaced, and the structure is found to be unstable in some way or another, we will recommend an engineer be consulted to make recommendations to upgrade the structure to a safe and insurable standard. Remember, if there is an incident related the roof, you as the homeowner, along with the contractor who did the work, will be jointly liable for damages/injuries. One of the first documents an insurance assessor will request during an investigation is are the building plans and A19 Certificate.    

A19 Certification is also required when making changes to the roof covering. For instance, if Roof sheeting is being changed out to roof tiles, then the structure will need to be modified to carry the additional weight of roof tiles. This modification will need to be approved by an engineer. Strictly speaking, plans should be submitted to the council but more importantly is that the structure is certified as safe. 

The reverse is also true when changes are made from a heavy roof covering to a lighter one. The flow of wind over a flat roof makes the roof covering act like a ‘wing’ which can create lift, so the structure needs to be properly secured, especially in windy areas like Camps Bay. 

 

 

The source isn’t always obvious when trying to find and repair roof leaks. While you might notice the signs inside your home such as mould and mildew or even water running down the ceiling, finding the source can be a bit of a challenge.

To make it easier, we’ve compiled a 3-step checklist you can use to help you find the source of the leak.

Step 1: Shed some light on it

While it might sound obvious, it’s best to look for a leak during the day. Additionally, grab a bright flashlight and make your way into the roof. Be careful and only step on the trusses.

Step 2: Trace it back

The only thing you know is where the water ended up. If you start there and work your way back by following the stains and discolorations, you’ll be able to trace the leak to its source. Most of the time, the leak isn’t directly above the spot in question.

Step 3: Add water

If you followed step 1 and 2 and you still haven’t found the source, do a water test once things have dried up. Either take a bucket or hose into the roof and systematically work your way across the whole area. Once you find the leak, mark it with chalk so you can easily find it again to do repairs.

Roof Advice: When to Call a Professional

While it’s completely possible to find a roof leak and fix it yourself, some cases call for expert advice:

• Your home is old and fragile
• Your home is more than one storey high
• Your roof is steep
• You don’t have the right tools
• You’ve don’t have any idea how to repair a roof properly

In short, if you haven’t repaired a roof before, it’s best to get the professionals to do it for you

Get in touch with Ross and Son for a free quote today!

 

No roof is invincible and over time it will start to decay. But this process will happen even faster if you don’t do regular repairs and maintenance. If you notice any problems with the shingles or gutter system, it’s time to talk to a roof specialist.

Your roof will spend its lifespan outdoors, which means it will be exposed to elements like rain and wind, as well as pests. Regular maintenance is vital if you want to extend the lifespan of your roof and make it last as long as possible.

Below are some common causes of roof damage:

1. The weather

Your roof takes on the external elements so you don’t have to. In return, all you have to do is repair it when it’s damaged. Rain and hail will take a toll on your roof and those who live in windy climates will have to pay even closer attention since the wind can be a real threat as well.

2. Birds and pests

Rodents can squeeze through smaller holes than you might imagine. As for ants and termites, they can go wherever they want to. The pests that are mostly responsible for roof damage are birds and rats. It is no challenge at all for them to make their way up your gutters or siding with the goal of creating a nest. They finally start to slowly burrow through your roof shingles until you have a pest problem in your home.

3. Neglecting regular repairs and maintenance

Even the most robust roofs need to be maintained or it will become more vulnerable to the constant wear and tear of the elements.

If your roof is in need of some TLC, or you need a roof repairs, get in touch with Ross and Son Roofing for an obligation-free quote today.

Water stains on your ceilings indicate a leakage of some sort and should be addressed immediately. It means that moisture is entering your home via your roof and can cause a multitude of problems ranging from weakening your home’s structure to affecting indoor air quality.

The longer you wait to fix roof leaks, the more susceptible you are to damp problems like mould growth. And while you’re busy fixing roof leaks, why not take the time to do some roof waterproofing to prevent future incidents.

Below are the reasons why it’s not advisable to ignore water stains and how it can affect you.

Water damage will allow mould growth

Mould is the stuff nightmares are made off because it is toxic and harmful to everyone inside your home. It can cause respiratory illness for yourself, family and pets or cause existing medical issues like allergies and asthma to worsen.

Mould spores multiply and spread quickly. Your home is receptive to extensive mould infestations once it’s damaged by water. You could have mould underneath wallpaper or behind walls without even realising it.

Water damage will weaken your roof structure

A damaged roof structure will allow animals and pests to get into your home. Pests like mice and rats only need a small hole to enter your roof. You’d be surprised at just how small!

Bigger gaps allow birds to make a nest in your roof. Besides the fact that they are a nuisance, bird droppings signify a big health risk to humans and pets. The sooner you get your roof repaired and waterproofed, the better protected you’ll be.

You don’t have to be a roofing expert to recognise the implications of a water stain on your ceiling but you might need one to take care of the problem. Get in touch with Ross & Son for all your roof repairs and roof waterproofing needs in Cape Town and surrounding areas.

Roof leaks can be a big pain. They can appear at the worst of times forcing you to run around in search of buckets or anything else that might be able to hold large amounts of water. It’s either that or your new laminate flooring will be completely ruined.

While it might be tempting to climb up into the roof to inspect the leak or even try to fix it, it might not be the best idea. You could end up doing more damage than good. It is best to hire a professional to assess the situation.

A professional roof leak repair contractor will know exactly where to look and what to search for. If there are any other issues you aren’t aware of such as mould, your roofing contractor will inform you straight away.

What causes roof leaks?

Your leak might be roof related but there are other causes that might be to blame, such as:

• Plumbing leaks
• Air conditioning leaks
• Pest infestation

If a proper leak investigation isn’t carried out, any repairs made to the roof might not be effective. Not only will time and money be wasted but it may lead to extensive damage to your home’s interior.

Where can I find a reputable and affordable roof leak repair contractor in Cape Town?

Finding a roofing contractor in Cape Town can be challenging since there are so many to choose from. Roof Repairs Cape Town has been operational for more than 15 years. They boast 99.9% customer satisfaction from this owner-run business and aim to ensure your project gets the attention it deserves.

For an obligation free quote for your roofing, waterproofing and painting needs, get in touch with the team from Roof Repairs Cape Town today.

 

So you think you need a new roof? While there are some obvious indications that a new roof is needed such as it catching fire, collapsing or being crushed by a tree, telltale signs aren’t always readily apparent. So we’ve combined a list of signs to help you determine if you need a roof replacement. If you’re still not sure, it’s best to call a roofing contractor like Roof Repairs Cape Town, to come and do an assessment.

1. It’s old

Tile roofs typically last 25 – 30 years. If your roof hasn’t been replaced in three decades, there’s a good chance it will need replacing soon.

2. There’s peeling, staining or bubbling paint

A roof that leaks can cause major damage to your homes exterior paint around the roofline. It can also leak into your home’s walls and leave stains on your inside walls and especially on ceilings. Watch out for any brown stains that may appear after rains.

3. Rising energy bills

Your roof functions as an insulator against cold and heat penetrating your home. It’s not doing its job if your utility bills keep increasing due to the air conditioner having to work harder to keep temperatures comfortable.

4. Sagging Roof

If your roof is sagging, it is generally a sign of a structural problem. There might be an issue with the supports in the foundation. This doesn’t mean you are in imminent danger, but it is the type of problem that is better taken care of when small than when it has advanced into something bigger.

Replacing your roof is an expensive investment so you’ll want to make sure you’re doing it right by hiring reputable roofing contractors to do the roof replacement for you. Don’t wait too long to replace your roof as you might incur costs due to damage caused by a deteriorated roof. Speak to the team at Roof Repairs Cape Town for an obligation free quote today.

Under normal circumstances, you should have your roof inspected by a professional at least once year and most definitley before purchasing a house. That said, not many people stick to these guidelines and end up having to do major repairs on their roofs. This can be a massive financial expense and if you select the wrong roofing contractor for the job, you might create bigger problems than you already have.

It’s crucial to be extra careful when hiring a roofing contractor for your project and you should keep these things in mind.

1. Get more than one quote

When faced with major roof repairs, the worst thing you can do is to go for the first quote that comes your way. Do your homework, and find reliable roofing contractors, then get at least three quotes so you can make an informed decision.

2. Get references from happy clients

Once you’ve settled on one or two roofing contractors, go online and get some feedback from happy clients. If you can’t find anything online, ask your potential roofing contractor for references from previous clients and get in touch with them. Don’t just blindly trust that they know what they are doing.

3. Don’t make your decision based on price

Never go for the cheapest roofing contractor! Unless you’ve done all the necessary research and you’ve come to the conclusion that they really are the best option. Chances are, they are spending less on materials which will affect the quality of the job they will do for you.

4. Never pay everything up front

If a roofing contractor requires a deposit, that’s fine when non fundable materials need to be purchased, but never make a full payment upfront. What leverage will you have if you aren’t happy with the outcome of the project?

5. Always check their insurance

You’ll want to hire a roofing contractor with proof of public liabillity or contractors indemnity insurance, should an accident happen on your premises.

For a reliable roofing contractor in Cape Town, speak to Ross and Son Roofing and Waterproofing. With more than 15 years experience in the roofing maintenance industry, you can trust that they will give your project the attention it deserves.