Replacing vs refurbishing flat metal roofs, Building roofing maintenance advice, Property life span

Replacing vs Refurbishing Flat Metal Roofs For Longevity

18 August 2025

Traditionally flat roofs haven’t had much popularity in this country for various reasons. The climate, with its unpredictable nature, heavy rainfall and strong winds means that flat roofs are prone to damage.

Flat roofs are attractive and give your building a sleek, minimalist look. The main issue with them is that they don’t provide adequate drainage. This means rain water and snow-melt tend to pool on the roof, eventually damaging the structure, causing leaks and growth of algae and mold. Though in real terms flat roofs are slightly pitched to provide drainage, this doesn’t always work and building owners have to spend extra money to install proper roof drainage.

Accumulation of water can damage the flashings and other roofing accessories, leading to leaks, cracks and damage, leading to a safety risk to life and property. During the hot season, temperature control inside the building is more difficult with a flat roof rather than a sloping roof. Building owners must combat this by applying heat and UV resistant paint or coatings, making this inexpensive option.

Flat roofs tend to become a breeding ground for pests and vegetation. Dirt and debris, falling branches, leaves and twigs stay on a flat roof more easily, and this means that the roof must be swept and cleaned regularly. These roofs are often coated with asphalt or bitumen which can soften and melt in the hot Australian summers.

Flat roofs are usually fitted with a waterproof membrane. This helps to protect the structure and the interiors of the building. The membrane can deteriorate due to harsh heat and UV exposure and it has to be replaced regularly. This is one of the reasons why flat roofing can cause recurring expenditure.

Another major issue with flat roofs is that they need to be installed correctly to ensure that they have a gentle slope that helps to drain away water. Many owners may have purchased an older building with a flat roof that hasn’t been well installed or well cared for.

Your Flat Roof: Do You Need To Replace or Refurbish?

If yours is an older flat roof, and it’s showing signs of aging, it’s wise to take a detailed look at it. Have it inspected by a trained, experienced professional who has worked on flat roofs like yours. They can give you an accurate picture of the condition of the structure and give you the right advice. Get in touch with first class roofing in Melbourne as they do this type of work and can replace your metal roof.

Some possible areas that could indicate that you need to take action are rust, water damage, cracks and leaks. You may also find that the fastenings, gutters and accessories are damaged.

It’s also important to evaluate whether you’ve previously repaired the roof several times. In such a case, it’s not worth undertaking short term repairs any longer. You can save much more in the long term by replacing the roof completely.

This is a decision that finally depends on your personal financial situation, preferences and the urgent need for repairs. If the damage is severe, and mere cosmetic repairs will not solve the problem, it’s best to avoid a temporary fix.

Roofing is one of the big-ticket investments that you as a building owner will have to make at some point in the life of the building. Safety of occupants is top priority as falling materials can seriously injure them. Leaks will damage the structure itself, as well as the contents of the building.

The inspection report will give you a fair idea of the condition of your roof. The roofing professional will report on the location, nature and extent of damage. Apart from the roof itself, damage has to be assessed to the rest of the structure and the insulation too. The experts will recommend certain solutions and give you various options that include both long and short term actions to be taken.

The next plan of action for you is to analyze your own unique requirements. If you plan to sell or rent the building you will have to invest in ensuring that you get a good value. You have to protect your legal liability in such cases, so if there is serious damage, it is wiser to opt for a complete replacement even though the costs may be higher.

Short term solutions such as repairs are needed when the damage is minimal or it is in the initial stages. Here your roofing contractor can replace the membrane, re-apply the sealants or coatings and replace rusty fasteners. They can also identify the reason for the problem and take steps to correct it. Perhaps the slope has to be altered or dips and troughs in the design have to be filled in.

If you are certain that you will continue to live or work in this building for a long time, the better option would be to replace rather than repair. This gives you peace of mind and keeps you compliant with building codes and insurance regulations.

Refurbishment is an option that you may choose when you want a more aesthetically appealing roof, or you want to install modern features such as smart roofing, metal panels or give your building a whole new look. Older asphalt flat roofs appear dated and may not be in sync with your present style, so replacing them with modern metal roofing panels is the right approach.

Comments on this guide to replacing vs refurbishing flat metal roofs – property roofing maintenance for longevity article are welcome.