Many of us have a habit of neglecting home repair. Roof leaks are one of the most common repair problems homeowners face. But putting a bucket under a leak in your roof and moving on with your life may not be a smart idea. If you don’t call in the roof repair specialists to fix the problem, it can lead to many other issues and quickly get out of hand. Read on to learn about the consequences of not fixing a leaky roof.

Structural Damage
Water can cause your home's frame to rot, bow, and splinter, which is incredibly unsafe. When neglected, continuous water leaks from the roof can damage the entire structure and interior of your home, which can be extremely expensive to fix.

Mould
With moisture comes mould and mildew. If mould and mildew develop from a leak in your roof, your home's entire structure could be affected. Mould can multiply rapidly in your home and invade the vents. Eventually, mould and mildew may be present on your rugs, furniture, and personal belongings. Getting rid of mould and mildew isn't easy and can be very expensive.

Pests
A hole in your roof provides the perfect entry point for some unwelcome visitors, such as spiders, cockroaches, or rodents. Pests can cause a lot of damage to your home, and once they're in, it can be a huge hassle to get rid of them. No one wants to share their home with bugs and rodents, so it's best to get that leak fixed ASAP!

Health Issues
As well as causing damage to your home, leaks can have a detrimental effect on your health. Mould spores, a cold space, dampness, and pests are likely to compromise your immune system, which leads to sickness. Toxic mould can cause health hazards like lasting nasal congestion and asthma. Contact a roofing expert at the first sign of mould or mildew, so your air quality isn't compromised.

Creates a Fire Hazard
If you have lights or fans on your ceiling, they may develop issues with time because of the leaking water. Serious leaks can also short out electrical wiring in ceilings and walls, which becomes a fire hazard. If you detect a leak in your roof near the ceiling or wall wiring, turn off the electricity in these areas until an electrician can examine the affected wires.

More Expensive Power Bills
Insulation fills the open spaces in the walls and ceiling to prevent heat from transferring out or in. If you leave a leak in your ceiling, the water that comes through will permeate the insulation in these spaces. Energy will escape from your house, making it difficult to maintain the temperature indoors. To keep it warm, you will have to use more energy, which will increase your bills significantly.

Got a leak?
If you think you may have a leak, Ascent Roofing can get it fixed ASAP. Ascent Roofing is a leading roofing company in Auckland, providing cost-effective solutions for a wide range of roofing needs. One small drip can symbolise a larger, potentially latent roofing issue, and we all know that roofing issues mean an investment of time and money. Get in touch with us today for all your repair and roof maintenance in Auckland.
 

The styles and quality of New Zealand buildings are changing rapidly, and roofing is changing with it! Like interior and exterior design, roofing design also goes through different trends, which can help make your home appear more modern, fresh, and stylish. If you are looking to install a new roof in Auckland, here are a few of the biggest roofing trends in 2022. 
 
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is a trend that is firmly set to continue into 2022. Metal roofs have skyrocketed in popularity thanks to their wide range of impressive benefits, which include longevity, durability, weather resistance, availability in a range of colour options, and a bold, modern visual impact. Metal is a great material for roofs in the New Zealand climate, where weather can be wild and unpredictable.
 
With that said, this sort of roof does tend to be more expensive than other options. They do last longer, though, so you’ll likely be spending less over the years, and there is very little annual maintenance needed.
 
Contrasting Colours
Long gone are the days when all roofs were simply brown, black, or grey. Blues and reds are making a fast comeback as everyone moves away from the monochromatic colours that took over the early 2000s. In 2022, roofs will include an even greater variety of colour options, with an increasing number of property owners choosing a bold roof in a contrasting colour. 
 
Using contrasting colours is a great option when picking a roof design. For instance, if most of your home is light-coloured, then you should aim for a darker-looking roof. The roof should not simply fade into the background; it should be a serious part of the design style of the home.
 
Eco-friendly Roofing
In recent years, eco-consciousness has shaped all sectors and industries. As we all try to do our bit to become more environmentally friendly, eco-conscious roofing options are becoming an even bigger trend in 2022. With so many people being mindful of the footprint they are leaving behind, it makes perfect sense to apply this kind of conscious thinking to your roofing choice. It can still look elegant, classic, and trendy while being a greener choice.
 
Popular eco-friendly roofs use synthetic materials (made of recycled materials) to create a stylish roof with a low carbon footprint. Environmentally friendly roofing doesn’t just decrease your carbon footprint, but it can also lower your utility bills. For many people, this is a win-win situation.

Asphalt Shingles
Many homes today are still using asphalt shingles. This trend has been with us for decades and is probably not going anywhere soon. If you want a trend that you know will last, get asphalt shingles. If you want to choose asphalt shingles but give them a trendy look, try experimenting with the colour, texture, and finish. Unique options are available to homeowners nowadays, so there is no reason to stick with the same as all your neighbours.
 
Ascent Roofing can help with your roofing needs! 
We are a roofing company with more than 25 years of combined team experience and are supported by our client services unit who are highly trained in project management, business operations, and customer service. From the initial point of contact until completion, you will know the difference of our operations from your "usual" tradies. We offer a no-obligation free service quote. Our project manager will visit you at an agreed time to discuss your needs on-site and provide you with the best solutions for your roofing needs. Let's schedule your free inspection and quote!

Why is My Roof Leaking?

A leaky roof doesn’t just happen. It’s usually the result of poor roof maintenance or severe weather. The answer to the question, “Why is my roof leaking?” is not always straightforward.
 
Many factors and events can contribute to a roof leak, and knowing the possible causes will help you identify the symptoms. This blog post explores the most common causes of leaks in your metal roof.
 
Consider also that regular roofing maintenance can help prevent roof leaks. Our professional contractors are trained to spot warning signs that might eventually turn into leaks. We can then prevent the damage before it happens.
 
The Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks
One small drip can symbolise a larger roofing issue, and we all know that roofing issues mean an investment of time and money. Spotting a problem early can mean the difference between a quick repair or a major remodel. The most common causes of leaks in roofs are as follows:
 
Pipe boot failure
One of the most common causes of roof leaks is when a boot around a pipe fails. The boot is a type of roof flashing that goes around the base of the pipes coming out of your roof and waterproofs them.
 
Improperly driven nails
Another common cause of leaks is when a roofing nail backs out of an iron roof. Whether it’s air-nailed or hand-nailed, the head of the nail may work its way back up if it isn’t driven in deep or straight enough.
 
Your valleys aren’t properly sealed
This is an area where two roof planes come together. Rainwater can get inside if they are joined improperly. You can detect a problem by searching for wet spots that run along the seams of your roof.
 
Debris in gutters that stop above a roof-line under a valley
The problem is with the fascia, which runs along the lower edge of the roof carrying the gutters. Leaks are more common when no flashing is applied to the fascia board.
 
There’s condensation in your attic
If your attic space shows signs of mould or mildew, this can be a sign that water has got inside. Condensation forms and moisture will follow.
 
Preventative Measures: Maintenance Increases the Lifespan of Your Roof

It is a fact that roof maintenance saves you money. The tricky thing about roof leaks is that water and gravity can combine to make them appear far from where they originate on the roof itself. Regular inspections and maintenance can locate problems that may not have begun to appear inside your house.
 
This is where Ascent Roofing Maintenance & Services comes in! We can perform routine inspections for you to keep disastrous roof leaks at bay. There may be several reasons why your roof is leaking, but poor maintenance is a common cause. The roof is the most vulnerable part of your home. Neglect can shorten its lifespan dramatically.
 
Roof maintenance can mean the difference between a repair and replacement when there is a problem, minimising future or unexpected costs. As roof repair specialists we are here to help. Contact us today for a no-obligation quote and we’ll be in touch shortly to arrange the roof inspection you need.

 Considering a Roof Replacement?

When was the last time the roof of your home was replaced? How long does a roof last? How do you know when to re-roof? At Ascent Roofing, we have the answers to all these questions and more. Read more and find out if it is time for you to book a roof replacement in Auckland below.
 
Your Existing Roof is Over 20 Years old 
Roofs are made to last a long time, but the effects of the environment can shorten the life of a roof. When was your roof last replaced? If you’ve never had it replaced, or it has been over 20 years, now might be a good time to get it examined by a professional. The material of the roof will be a factor in when you should consider replacing it; however, as a general rule, replacing a roof around every 20 years is a safe bet.

There is Visible Wear and Tear
There are a variety of factors that can lead to your roof deteriorating sooner than its lifespan warrants, including storm damage, extreme weather, mould, moss, and algae. If you can see that your roof is losing its colour, or there is noticeable corrosion, rust, leaks, or mould, it is a good indicator that it is time to replace it. Not doing so risks more serious trouble down the road like rotted roof framing or severe leaking that may damage your home and belongings.
 
You Want to Add Value to Your Home
If you plan on selling your home within the next few years, replacing your home’s roof is one of the best ways to boost your home’s resale value. Building inspection reports take the roof and roof space into account when assessing the condition of a house, and appraisals are done using the results from a BIR. Therefore, if your roof isn’t in good condition when the time comes to sell, the value of your home will be downgraded. A new roof shows potential buyers that you’ve been keeping up with the maintenance and may help you receive a higher asking price. Potential buyers will appreciate the fact that they won’t need to worry about replacing the home’s roof for decades.

You Want a New Look 
Old roofs can look messy and unappealing, making the whole exterior of your home look less inviting. Roofing trends have changed over time, and re-roofing gives you a chance to keep your home looking modern and up to date. You can choose a brand-new material, colour, and style to suit the design you want to show to the world. You can feel proud of the home you live in.
 
Your House Is Too Cold
Hot air is more buoyant than cool air and rises. If your ceiling isn’t properly insulated or your roof is deteriorating, that hot air will escape through it, and you’ll find your house feeling a lot cooler than you might like. If you’ve noticed the energy bill getting higher and higher as you try to keep your home warm, it might be time for a re-roof. A roof that can keep warmth inside and the cold air outside can help to lower your energy bill significantly.
 
Ready to Re-Roof?
If you are looking to get a new roof in Auckland, Ascent Roofing can help you out.
With our tailor-fit solutions customised to your roofing needs, our team of highly qualified roofing technicians and project managers will make sure that we deliver our commitment to bring you the peace of mind you deserve with a good roof over your head that will last for years to come.

​Get in touch with us today to find out more.

Regular roof inspections are necessary to avoid expensive leaks and other issues, but navigating any roof requires the utmost care and caution. We’ve provided some tips on how to safely inspect and maintain your roof, so you can ensure it is in tip-top condition without putting yourself in danger. 
 
Identify hazards before an inspection
Before you even set foot on your roof, it is important that you are aware of any potential hazards you may encounter and have a plan on how to deal with them. First things first, you need to identify the hazard and then assess it. Can the job be done without exposing people to the hazard? If serious harm could result, then it’s a significant hazard. The next step is to control hazards, either by eliminating, isolating, or minimising them. One of the most common hazards when working on a roof is the possibility of a fall. When working at heights, you should always watch out for fall hazards. Basic questions to ask yourself should be: how badly harmed would someone be if they fell and how likely is a fall?  Is the structure strong enough to support the weight? Are there holes to watch out for? Are ladders properly placed and not defective? Use an inspection checklist to ask the right questions and assess fall hazards when working from heights.
 
Be wary of weakened surfaces
If your roof is under five years old, hasn’t been subjected to significant weather since its last inspection, or has shown evidence of interior leakage, chances are there won’t be too much change since your last inspection. However, if your roof doesn’t meet these criteria, it is a good idea to proceed with caution. As time passes, the roofing material will deteriorate and can lose some of its structural integrity. Make sure you are certain that the roof can hold your weight before you get up there. Inspect the roof from inside the building first, as this will often give you an indication of any weak spots that you need to watch out for.
 
Look for hazards beyond the roof
As well as any hazards you may encounter on the roof itself, you also need to consider other hazards that may be in the surrounding environment, such as power lines. If there are powerlines in the vicinity of the roof, it is a good idea to appoint a safety observer who can alert you to any hazards you are getting close to. The weather is another external factor that needs to be considered when you are inspecting or maintaining your roof. Check the suitability of weather conditions to make sure that it won’t be too hot, windy, or wet to perform the tasks that you need to.
 
Be Cautious
If you don’t feel comfortable that you can get up on your roof safely, then don’t! There are plenty of great professionals who can help with roof inspections and roof repair in Auckland. Here at Ascent Roofing, we thoroughly inspect roofs and do site measurements properly. Our free job quotes contain site reports and professional recommendations to help you maximise the value of your dollars. We carefully consider all aspects of your roofing project to ensure that each roofing solution is what you need for your home. Whether that's for a roof replacement, roof repair, or general roof maintenance services — we're here to help sort that out for you. Get in touch with us today to organise your roof inspection, or for some roof maintenance tips.

There is no doubt that a proper, fully functional roof is key to protecting buildings from the elements such as sunlight, extreme weather conditions and helps to regulate temperature and keep moisture away from the building or home. A key part of the roofing system that is sometimes misunderstood but integral to its functionality is the flashing.

At its most basic function, a roof flashing serves its purpose by ensuring that water does not pool or build up on the roof. Flashings are made up of thin sheets of material that prevent water from flowing and entering the building or home. They serve as a weather-proofed protection system, diverting water and other elements from penetrating different areas of the roof where water can find their way in such as, chimneys, vent pipes, walls, windows. 

Roof flashings are made out of a host of materials but typically made out of various metals such as copper, stainless steel, aluminium, bitumen and zinc alloy, to name a few. Installation of flashings always take into account changes in temperatures and seasons and as such make use of expansion joints to allow for expansion and contraction. 

There are many kinds of flashings but the most common ones found in homes can be broken down into three main types. All are equally important and ensuring these flashings do not fail or wear out will help make for a secure, watertight and dry home. 

1. Apron Flashing

The most common type of roof flashing that is used in roofing applications is apron flashing. This type of flashing is popular since it can be used on almost all sides. Apron flashings help make for a water tight seal and is usually located at the juncture of the top of an inclined roof and a wall, chimney or steeper-sloped roof. Thanks to its versatile nature makes it effective in covering almost all sides and types of roof.

2. Step Flashing

Step flashing is installed in steps with layers in between and is usually used  in situations where a lower height roof runs into a wall, a part of the roof meets with a chimney, or simply when a wall meets with a part of the roof structure. This type of flashing is very easy to identify as it oftentimes resembles the steps of a staircase. This pattern helps divert water away from the walls and towards the gutter.

3. Dektite Flashing

Sometimes known as a pipe boot or boot flashing, it is a rubber cone with an aluminium backed  strip that attaches to the roof and is used to properly seal and secure penetration points around a roof such as a pipe.

If you suspect a leak in your home, it is quite possible that a flashing has failed or is nearing the end of its life. In most cases, repair work can resolve the issue of water ingress however, there are times when wear and tear would call for a flashing to be replaced altogether.  

Always have an expert inspect and investigate your flashings to determine its true state and look into options for you. Never attempt to conduct DIY repair or replacement work as such key areas of the roof can often lead to bigger problems if done incorrectly or poorly.

Get in touch with our team of experts so we can sort our your roof repair, maintenance or replacement concerns.

• Picking a roofing contractor can be stressful! You might be dealing with a leaking or damaged roof, and on top of that, you have to sort through all of the available roofing contractors in your area to find one who will get the job done right, while still being affordable.
  
  
• Understandably, you might not be sure about what makes a roofing contractor good or reliable, especially if you are a new homeowner or have never needed one before.
  
  
• So we've put together this handy free guide that includes 10 excellent questions to ask potential roofing contractors—before you sign on the dotted line. Plus some budget considerations, as we know a roof replacement is a big financial commitment.
  

Click the Download Free Guide button below 👇

Need help now? 👇
Get in touch for a free no obligation quote
Email: info@ascentroofing.co.nz
Call 09 218 50 46

Today's Inspection 🧐 Tomorrow's Protection 😊

Perhaps one of the earliest inventions of our ancestors, once they ventured out of caves, was a roof over their heads. Roofers sure had it easy in that bygone era of thatched huts! These days, roofing is a complex job requiring skill, endurance, and a strong stomach for heights.

Even the best quality roofing products could fail if installed incorrectly. Water will find its way into any flaw and eventually create leaks if the installation is not done to professional standard. That's why a company's roofing crew is its most important asset. In an industry that usually has high turnover, Ascent Roofing takes pride in the longevity and experience of our crew members! That's really is something to be proud of, when you consider the tough job they tackle every day.

A Day in the Life of a Roofer
As you may have guessed, a roofing professional spends the workday laying or repairing roofs. Their day might be spent on new construction, remodeling projects, or repairing damage from a storm.

Prior to any installation, they will inspect the roof to see where problems lie then determine the best material and course of action based on the type of roof. Between tear-down and clean-up, they spend most of the day covering the top of a building with layers of roofing materials such as felt, wood, asphalt, tar, tiles, steel and so on.

Most residential roofs are covered with tiles. To apply them, roofers lay and tack strips of roofing felt followed by overlapping rows of tiles. Prior to that, roofers measure and cut everything precisely to fit, with special care around openings like vent pipes and chimneys. Wherever two roof surfaces intersect or where tiles reach an opening, roofers install flashing-strips of metal or shingle over the joints to make them watertight. Finally, the workers cover exposed nail heads with roofing cement or caulking to keep water from seeping in.

Other responsibilities might include applying layers of insulation, sealing off openings, and finishing off the roof by applying glaze. Routine duties include tool maintenance, ordering materials, cleaning up debris from their work, and ensuring the roof is waterproof.

A Few Good Men...and Women!
Roofers must have no fear of height, have a good sense of balance and have concern for their own safety and that of their co-workers. Working in a dangerous environment, you really find out who your friends are! These are workers who enjoy physical outdoor labor, and who willingly endure occasional unpleasant weather. Good roofers do all of this with a sense of duty to the homeowner, ensuring that the project is completed on time, within the budget, and completed with the quality of workmanship expected of them.

Thankfully, today's roofers have access to modern equipment that lessens the physical exertion that used to be the norm. But the modern roofer still works hard, in sometimes difficult conditions. This brief description doesn't do justice to the scope of the knowledge a roofing crew must have, but we hope the reader appreciates the skill involved. Next time you look up at your roof, take a moment to silently thank the talented crew of workers that installed it. Or if a new roof or repair job is in your future, be sure to contact the experienced and skilled professionals at Ascent Roofing in Auckland for a free estimate!

A new roof can benefit your property in a variety of ways. From a new pitched roof that insulates your home to flat roofing that provides long-lasting protection from the elements, it’s vital you choose a material which meets your needs.

To help you narrow down the vast number of roof materials on offer, follow these useful tips.

Weatherproofing
Roof replacements are often necessary after many years of wear and tear, so you want to know the material you choose for any new roofing is going to last. The best way to do this is to look at the most weather-resistant options available. Have a chat to us and we'll talk you through the options best for your home and requirements.

Insulation
Energy efficient roofing is becoming more popular than ever as many homeowners strive to reduce their impact on the planet. It can also have cost saving benefits for property owners too. After all, there’s no point in having high-performance windows and doors if you’re going to lose air and heat through your roof. Speak to us about the insulation available with any new products you like.

Value for Money
When considering your budget, always weigh up the cost of multiple repairs vs a new roof. Most property owners dread the costs when it comes to roofing work, but choosing quality doesn’t always mean going for the most expensive option. A well-planned installation by an experienced company and regular maintenance are key.

Attractive Roofing Materials
While functionality is always high on the list for anyone investing in a new roof, you can also think about using the upgrade as a way to add some more kerb appeal to your home. Many roofing components come in a variety of colours and shapes. It’s possible to find the perfect look, whether you live in a traditional or modern property.

Do you need a new roof?
Today's Inspection 🧐 Tomorrow's Protection 😊 Get in touch for a free no obligation quote 👇
email: info@ascentroofing.co.nz or call 09 218 50 46