Timber shingles/shakes – rotten shingles

Cause

Roof remains continuously damp due to insufficient cleaning or accumulation of debris such as leaves from overhanging branches 

Repair

  • remove debris and moss regularly by sweeping with a stiff bristle broom
  • cut back overhanging branches that are shading the roof, and remove debris
  • if the roof does not receive sunlight for periods of the year and may therefore not dry out fully, options include: replacing existing shingles with H4-treated pinus radiata shingles or cedar shingles; using stainless steel or silicone bronze nails to fasten cedar shingles; replacing shingles with an alternative roofing material
  • if more than 10% of the shingles need replacing, the whole roof should be replaced. If the old shingle roof has met minimum Building Code durability provisions (it has lasted at least 15 years) a building consent is not required; if not, a consent must be obtained before reroofing. Reroofing with a different cladding type will require a consent.

Cause

Roof at the end of its serviceable life

Repair

  • if more than 10% of the shingles need replacing, the whole roof should be replaced. If the old shingle roof has met minimum Building Code durability provisions (it has lasted at least 15 years) a building consent is not required; if not, a consent must be obtained before reroofing. Reroofing with a different cladding type will require a consent.