Southern Cross Roofing Blog

Bloody Hell February

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 03:08:00 GMT

25 days of rain out of 28!!!!

Yes thats right, that was the prediction from the Sydney weather forecast and for once it looks like they actually got it right!

Rain to a roofer has its pros and cons....

Its great because when the rain falls, this is when homeowners discover any leaks in the ceilings due to cracked or broken tiles, thus pick up the phone and call a roofer....

Roofers are then delighted, the phone calls are coming in....however, not all is well. Rain = slippery roof tiles which then prevents roofers from being able to get on the roof to locate the problem. This then causes a huge back log of work unable to be done, not only the new enquiries and jobs but of course the existing work already lined up....

Rain for roofers is a catch 22!!

This February, has been a great month for phone calls requesting quotes, and there has been many different issues and problems to overcome.

We visited a slate roof that had broken slates sitting in the valley, they had been painted and painted to try and keep some of the water out, eventually to no avail. Sometimes you have to bite the bullet and spend the money replacing the old valley. The trouble with trying to repair the old valley is that by the time you have had all the tradesmen up and down on the roof after various patch ups the slate is often very fragile and can break easily, leaving a hole and causing more problems than the rusted valley did in the first place.

We found a lot of quotes for roofs without sarking, these can be a common problem when torrential rain occurs as any small discrepancy is highlighted, as that extra layer of water proofing is missing.

Dog leg valleys are also a big problem in the wetter weather, these are valleys that change direction and are commonly known in the roofing industry asbastard valleys. These cause problems as unfortunately although the valley can change direction sometimes the weather doesn't, this then enables the rain to push straight over the valley edge and flow freely into the house.

We have also had some quotes for terracotta tiled houses. When terracotta tiles were first introduced to Australia from the UK on the ships, it was noticed that the nearer to the salt water the tiles were the easier they were to diminish or start fretting. So homes or properties nearer to coastal areas of the country tend to experience this problem, however, from the ground or just glancing at the roof this problem is not noticeable, it is not until you start removing the tiles (which can be quite tricky) that it is plain to see. Of course over the years protectors and varnishes have been developed to try and curb or reduce this problem, however, it does still occur occasionally.

If you are experiencing any leaking problems or would like a free quote for a check please call we are always happy to help.

Leaves in Tile Roofs are a problem

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 07:51:00 GMT

Leaves are a constant source of headache for roofers and a constant source of problem for all roofing types; especially for tiled roofs. Tile roofing seems to be the worst affected due to the access leaves have to valleys and gutters.

Have a look at the pictures below, this is a great example of a flat tiled roof having problems with leaves blowing up under the tiles.

The problem arises because once the rain has come and the leaves are blocking the gutters the water then has nowhere to go. The water builds up in the gutters and spills over into eave lines. The leaves turn into a thick mulch which also builds up causing dams and starts forcing the water into the roof cavity thus causing not only external damage like rotting gutters and down pipes and in some cases blocking drainage, but internal damage as well as shown in the last picture above.

This is a reminder how important it is to have checks and maintenance done on your roof regularly.

Roof maintenance is a MUST

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 01:51:00 GMT

Maintaining your roof is a very crucial part of looking after your assets. With a yearly check either by yourselves or a professionals like Southern Cross Roofing a lot of cost and stress can be avoided. Not only can you damage your roof but also extensive damage can occur to the inside of your property. Check out this picture, this could have all been avoided by paying a small cost for a roof check, however, this Sydney couple have left it until the ceiling of their house has fallen through and are now looking at a huge cost in house renovations.

Generally speaking at a minimum even to clean out the leaves from the gutters and eaves can help the maintenance of the roof. The pictures around tell the story. I know I would prefer to be paying a roofer a small sum once a year than to have to fork out a huge amount in having a whole re-roof done. This neglect brought the whole roof crashing down.

Thats why its is so important to clear the leaf debris on a regular basis. If you are thinking of getting a professional in once a year which is highly recommended then give Southern Cross Roofing a call they will insure they let you know when its time to invest in your roof with new gutters, tiles or eaves and when repairs are needed. We are the roofers you can trust if your maintaining your roof well enough and no repairs are needed we will tell you that also.

Remember, regular check up and roof maintenance is a must to ensure your roof lasts as long as it should and to avoid your property looking like this.....

Weather affected Roofs

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 00:22:00 GMT

Being a Sydney roofing company we understand the weather conditions around the area. The wet weather has been a real problem in recent weeks for home owners in Sydney and it is now, that people have realised that they need a new roof or urgent roof repairs.

As Southern Cross Roofing are Sydney Roofing specialists they have been inundated with calls from worried residents in regards to these problems. Re Roofs are another huge demand, however, can be extremely tricky to carry out this time of year in regards to our roofers safety due to the threat of rain storms.

Does your roof look like this???

Well if it does it may be an idea to give us a call.

A poor Sydney couple ignored minor leaks in their roof and didn't action the small roof repairs that were needed.

They ended up with losing their whole ceiling of their house due to the water damage built up over various weeks of rainstorms and bad weather.

Don't become one of those statistics and pay for more work in the end including a new roof when only minor roof repairs are needed.

Call Southern Cross Roofing now on 9477 7961 for a free quote.

Don't end up with a roof looking like this.

CSR Conference

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 23:49:00 GMT

Recently a CSR Conference was held at the Mean Fildders Greenway Room in Rouse Hill, for all CSR Roofing Specialists, being a Sydney Roofing Company, Southern Cross Roofing were invited to attend.

Many CSR employees were key speakers at the conference including Brian Doherty. Brian spoke about the down turn in the market and the likely predictions for the future which he enhanced by providing graphs.

Brians discussions were based around all things that relate to and effect the CSR Specialists, such as, New Roofs, Re Roofs, extensions and briefly touching on roof repairs.

Linda Kosl then delivered information on marketing and how best to promote the CSR Roofing Specialist. Suggestions included promoting on social networking sites such as twitter, Tv advertising on The Lifestyle channel on foxtel and general information on updating websites.

Work Safety representatives also made an appearance to reiterate on the importance of safety clothing, including roofing harnesses, correct safety shoes and eye protection.

A HIA representative continued on this track by talking about the new 'Working at safe heights code'. He informed us that all states will soon be in harminisation by coming together and using the same 'Working at safe heights code'.

Mark Webster the director of Southern Cross Roofing was then asked to speak about his new venture into the roofing supplies business. Mark has recently opened a new business called Sydney Roof and Building Supplies and provided information on the products available. He started by explaining that Sydney Roof and Building Supplies is a one stop shop in Mount Kuring-Gai that offers a full roofing product range from small but crucial tools like trowels and tape measures all the way to bedding racks and elevators. He explained that a free delivery service is available to your contractors or yourself straight to site.

Mark focused on 3 main things during the evening:

The first was the new 'Fusion' Nail gun and its capabilities touching briefly on the peg out guide that accompanies it.

The next was roofing clips and the speculation over the pointing code in recent weeks following the cyclone up in Queensland. Mark provided a clip board to highlight the expanse of clips available from Sydney Roof and Building Supplies including not only Fixing Caps, Starter clips and short course clips but a wide variety of head lap clips.

The Acry Flash lead range that is available was the last thing Mark concentrated on, giving a detailed description of what Acry Flash is and the many benefits Mark sees in using this flashing product. He explained that not only is it water tank friendly but it offers a more durable alternative to other flashing products and more importantly being the same cost as lead.

19th November 2011

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 22:49:00 GMT

As Southern Cross Roofing are New-Roof, Re-roof, roof extension and roof repairs specialists, we were recently one of very few roofing specialist companies to be invited along to to the exclusive CSR specialist conventions.

The convention was held in Port Stephens and was providing roofing companies with relevant information to the roofing industry. New roof tile products and colour products were highlighted. The CSR representatives discussed changes in the work code and the direction that not only CSR are heading in, but the direction that they want their specialists to head in. We were taught how to make the most of CSR and given information on how to update promotions and websites.

Southern Cross Roofing were invited along exclusively as we were promoting the Nullaboor tile. CSR were aware that Mark Webster, the director of Southern Cross Roofing, had used this tile on his own property and wanted to highlight the reason for him choosing this product. As roofing specialsits and property owner Mark choose the Nullaboor tile because of its quality.

12th November 2011

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:27:00 GMT

Due to the recent weather that Sydney has been exposed to, Southern Cross Roofing has been very busy working on lots of roof repairs and pending roof maintenance. New roofs and re-roofs are extremely difficult to conquer in this stormy weather due to the safety of the roofers and the amount of time that the bare roof would be exposed to the elements.

Southern Cross Roofing have found many difficult problems arising over the last few weeks that you may find could apply to your own roofs. Not only have we been finding leaf debris in gutters but also in valley lines, this in turn creates blockages causing water to penetrate into the roof area and leaking to occur not only in the outside of the home but in many cases the inside.

We have had many requests for roof repairs in the instances of broken tiles and the re-bedding and pointing of ridge caps which are common problems that we are happy to fix.

If you have experienced any of these problems or any similar problems relating to your roof, why not give Southern Cross Roofing a call on 02 9477 7961. We will be happy to come to your home a offer a free roofing quote.

Roof Specialists

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:37:00 GMT

CSR Roofing is one of Australia’s most experienced roof tile manafacturers with an extensive history of supplying roof tiles to the Sydney area. CSR products are backed by a 50 Year product and performance guarantee.

CSR roof tiles are used by roofers performing roof repairs or fitting new roofs on homes or during home renovations

Southern Cross Roofing have been invited to join CSR as one of their roofing specialists. Recognised for our Five Star quality of work, service and good old fashion ethics in Sydney’s new roof and re-roofing industry. We would be delighted to quote on your next roofing job or just give us a call if you are seeking friendly advice.

Visual Checks For Damaged Roofs

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:42:00 GMT

Visual checks should be carried out regularly to spot any potential developing problems to the roof which, if left unchecked could prove expensive to fix.

From the outside of the house visually study the roofs ridge capping, if you see signs of deterioration such as loose or missing ridge capping or cement loosening, it’s a sure sign you need to call in a professional roofing expert to further assess the problem and advise on the necessary roof repairs that are needed.

Also, try walking around the home checking underneath the roofs eaves. If under the eaves show any signs of water stains it could be an indication of blocked gutters or damaged roof tiles and should be investigated immediately to once again avoid expensive roof repairs that could develop if left unchecked.

In and around Sydney you are invited to call Southern Cross Roofing for friendly advice on how to approach any problems you may have detected with your roof.

The Roof Tile Choice

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:47:00 GMT

There are many reasons why cement roof tiles have become the roofing material of choice, tiles offer a diversity and come in an extensive range of profiles that will enhance a houses design.

Tiles offer flexibility of choice and offer designs to suit anyone’s architectural requirements and in the Sydney area are the most used roofing material.

Cement roof tiles will not rust, warp or corrode, provides thermal insulation and are impervious to frost and ice making them the ideal roofing for the Australian and Sydney climate.

Barrington Roof Tiles Suitable For Sydney Climate

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:48:00 GMT

Barrington Roof Tiles

Southern Cross Roofing supply and fit Barrington Slate Tiles which are a quality slate tile suitable for the Sydney climate, they are manufactured from Torbex, a high-strength, lightweight structural composite that has been tested by the CSIRO to the Australian Building Standards AS 4046–1992.

The CSIRO also conducted extensive environmental and performance testing on the tile which is supported by their CSIRO Technical Assessment 279.

Weighing only 800 grams and measuring 300 x 336mm each, the Barrington Slate Tile is capable of supporting over 120kg in weight, making it safe to walk on and easy to handle.

Quality Metal Roofing Materials

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:50:00 GMT

We only use quality products for roofs we erect or repair so we only use suppliers who provide quality roofing materials, such as roofing suppliers Zammit, one of Sydney's most reliable providers of metal roofing products.

Zammit provide Southern Cross Roofing with the following metal roofing materials.

Classic Copper Roofs

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:58:00 GMT

Add a classic touch to your house by installing copper roofs. Copper roofing has been famous mostly in European countries during the eighteenth century. It is also used in different heritage buildings around Australia. This particular type of roof is lightweight and durable for the most part. It can endure high winds and is very resistant against fire. It is easy to install and not a hassle to measure and paste. This is because the copper roof is capable of being installed right over the roof instead of step-by-step measuring and trimming, unlike other typical roof types.

The major downfall of the copper roof however, is that it is very expensive. Yes, this is not the roof for those who are not willing to spend much. However, do not be discouraged by just the roofing’s cost. Asphalt shingles are cheap and durable, why can’t I just use that? The answer is that a copper roof can last for more decades than other roofs, provided it is maintained simultaneously along with the house. Also, when this type of roof loses its luster and durability, fear not for it is reusable, recyclable, and can be turned into other things.

In short, copper roofs are right for monumental structures and could be used by home owners too, if they’re confident on their home’s lifespan as much as the roof so it wouldn’t go to waste. It can be salvaged and reused if the house it covers becomes obsolete, and don’t be afraid to pay for the price because copper roof’s benefits exceeds its cost. So, if you are looking for something that’s not a burden to install and something that will last, and provided you have extra cash on hand, then copper roof is just for you.

Glass Wool Insulation Batt

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:52:00 GMT

Southern Cross Roofing use AGI Insulation Big Batts which are a highly effective, lightweight, flexible and resilient glass wool insulation batt. Tested to Australian Standard 4859.1 AGI Insulation.

Big Batts are Building Code of Australia (BCA) compliant.

Manufactured from up to 100% recycled glass, they provide excellent thermal resistance whilst being easy to install.

AGI Insulation Big Batts are supplied to the Sydney area in both 430mm wide and 580mm wide to suit 450mm and 600mm ceiling joist centres.

They are also suited for use as under floor & wall insulation.

Clay Roof: Naturally Beautiful

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:55:00 GMT

Would you like your house to appear traditional? Do you prefer the beauty of old generation building art more than the contemporary design? Then, clay roof tiles might be the best roofing choice for you. Equipped with high-quality performance and visually-appealing style, clay roofs can satisfy the diverse requirements in the modern architecture industry.

Although the new era has come, some home owners still prefer using clay as their roof material rather than the concrete ones. Well, they cannot be blamed because a clay roof also has its fair share of benefits for houses and other buildings. Production of this roof type dates back to your ancestors’ generation and it has stood the test of time. That being said, a clay roof is very durable, strong and has a long-span of life, provided that it is properly take care of. There is also no doubt about its ability to cope with the natural climatic conditions of Southern Australia like rainstorms, hail, snow, and the sun’s extreme heat. There is a variety of clay roof profiles to choose from. It is very flexible and can fit different building styles from medieval times to futuristic designs. Aside from its obviously fine-looking appearance, it is also noted as an eco-friendly roof. Because of its natural elements, it does not bring harm to the environment unlike other roofing materials.

If you are willing to spend some cash for both roof materials and the installation labor costs, then go ahead and use clay roof tiles. It will give your home a superior quality inside and out.