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Ladder resting against a corrugated metal roof

Overview

Water damage to your home can be costly. Protecting it is a very simple job that can also extend the life of your roof. This guide offers some simple tips to help prepare your roof for the wet season.

Steps

1Clean the gutters

The first step to preparing your roof for the wet season is to clean the gutters. Remove all of the leaf litter from the gutters and check that the downpipes aren't blocked.

Person on a ladder clearing leaves out of a roof gutter

2Safety first

Safety is important when you're working on a roof. If you're standing on the roof to clean it, always start on one side and walk backwards away from where you have sprayed. That way you always walk onto a dry part of the roof. If you're working from a ladder, have someone on the ground holding it for you.

Ladder resting against a corrugated metal roof

3Remove the mould and mildew

Before you start this step, disconnect any water tanks from the gutters so chemicals don't run in to your water storage. Put on safety glasses, dust mask and rubber gloves. Following the instructions on the roof cleaner, spray it onto the roof. Scrub the roof with a brush. Hose the roof cleaner off with water. 

Person on a ladder wearing protective clothing spraying roof with a cleaning solution

4Check your screws

If you have a tin roof, check that all of the screws are securely fixed. Replace any that are damaged. If any of the seals around the screws are worn, use silicone to reseal them.

Person holding a caulking gun containing a tube of silicone
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.