5 Common Roofing Problems and How We Fix Them Properly
Danie Reitsma • April 18, 2025

Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against the elements. From shielding you against heavy rains to keeping your family safe and warm, a solid, well-maintained roof is essential. But like anything exposed to the elements, roofs wear down over time. At Home Renovations and Repairs, we bring over 40 years of experience to every project, ensuring that roofing problems are not just patched – they’re properly repaired, using NHBRC-approved methods and materials.

In this blog, we’ll explore five common roofing issues and explain how we fix them the right way – no shortcuts, no temporary fixes, just high-quality craftsmanship that lasts.

common roofing problems

1.Leaking Roofs

One of the most common issues homeowners face is a leaking roof. Whether it's a slow drip or a full-blown waterfall during a storm, roof leaks can cause significant damage to your ceilings, insulation, and structural components if not repaired properly.


Our Solution:


At Home Renovations and Repairs, we begin with a thorough roof inspection to pinpoint the exact source of the leak – not just the symptoms. As specialists in roof leak detection, we understand that every leak has a cause. Unlike many companies who rely on short-term fixes like acrylic paint and membrane (“pap and lap”), we use NHBRC-compliant solutions such as steel flashing replacement, proper ridge tile re-bedding with dampcourse, and full material stripping and replacement where needed​.


steel flashing replacement

2.Structural Roof Problems


Sagging roofs, cracked beams, or misaligned trusses often stem from poor design, water damage, or improper alterations. These structural issues can be dangerous and often require more than just a cosmetic fix.


Our Solution:


We are specialists in structural roof repairs and new roof erection. Whether it's a roof sagging from poor truss design or inadequate bracing, we know how to correct it properly. We make use of Girder and lattice girder trusses to reinforce the structure and allow for safe alterations such as open plan living spaces​.


We can also issue an engineer’s certificate for all structural repairs, giving our clients peace of mind and helping with compliance during home alterations and municipal plan approvals.

structural roof repairs

3.Poor Waterproofing

Improper waterproofing is a hidden issue that often leads to significant damage over time. Many homes suffer from damp walls, peeling paint, or mould growth due to inadequate waterproofing systems.


Our Solution:


We offer both torch-on membrane waterproofing and liquid rubber waterproofing options depending on the specific application​. Torch-on membrane is ideal for concrete slabs, balconies, and retaining walls and is heat-fused to a primed surface with a protective aluminium paint finish. For versatile applications, our liquid rubber system provides excellent coverage across multiple surfaces including flat roofs.


As always, our work adheres to NHBRC standards, ensuring durability and long-term protection from moisture ingress.

waterproofing

4.Inadequate Flashings


Flashings are often overlooked during construction or repair but play a critical role in preventing leaks where the roof meets vertical structures like chimneys, parapets, and walls.


Our Solution:


Instead of using temporary paint-and-membrane fixes, we replace all worn or damaged flashings with steel flashings, which are the most durable and NHBRC-recommended method. This extra step may be more labour-intensive, but it ensures the longevity of the repair and eliminates the need for constant touch-ups.

Inadequate roof Flashings

5.Ageing Roofing Materials

Over time, roof tiles, sheeting, and timber trusses can simply wear out. Broken tiles, rusted metal sheeting, or weakened beams can all contribute to reduced performance and safety.


Our Solution:


With decades of experience, we’ve worked on everything from tiled roofs to metal and timber roofing systems. We carefully assess which roofing materials are failing and replace them with top-quality alternatives. Whether it’s replacing ridged tiles, restoring wooden trusses, or upgrading to a more suitable product, we always strive for a cost-effective, long-lasting roofing solution.

Ageing Roofing Materials

What Sets Us Apart?


At Home Renovations and Repairs, we don’t believe in doing a job halfway. Here’s what makes us the trusted name in roof repairs, roofing services, and structural renovations:


  • 44+ Years of Experience: We’ve built and repaired thousands of roofs – from small house extensions to entire commercial buildings.
  • NHBRC Registered: Every job complies strictly with the National Home Builders Registration Council’s specifications.
  • Holistic Services: We go beyond just roofing. If your repair needs brickwork, plastering, painting, or ceiling installation – we do it all. This means one contractor, full solution.
  • Permanent Fixes: We don’t believe in quick fixes. We remove the faulty materials, investigate the root problem, and rebuild using proper methods and materials.
  • Engineer Certificates: For structural work, we provide the necessary documentation to ensure compliance with building regulations.


experienced roofing contractor

Final Thoughts


Your home deserves the best. A strong, watertight, and properly constructed roof is essential for your comfort and safety. With Home Renovations and Repairs, you’re not just getting a roofer – you’re getting a construction expert who understands every facet of building, from foundations to roofing.

We don’t just fix roofing problems – we solve them permanently, using traditional building methods combined with modern waterproofing solutions. So whether it’s a leaky roof, sagging trusses, damaged flashing, or structural alterations, we’re ready to help.


If you’re experiencing roofing issues or need an expert’s eye on a tricky situation, contact Home Renovations and Repairs today. Let us bring our decades of experience, NHBRC-approved techniques, and dedication to excellence to your next project.


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roof leak repairs to structural improvements, we've got your home covered

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