Steven Huntingford from Accredited Roofing has worked on hundreds of Kiwi homes since the late 1990s. He’s seen the difference the right prep and product can make. “I remember roofs I painted back in the late 90s… and they’re still looking really good”.

So, how do you know which option is right for your roof?

Signs you might not need a new roof

A roof can look weathered without being structurally damaged. If there’s no major rust, sagging or leaking, a surface restoration might be all it needs. In fact, coating a sound roof can give it a whole new lease on life and a fresh look to match.

The trick is knowing what’s just cosmetic and what’s cause for concern. Look for:

• Colour fading or patchiness
• Loss of protective coating
• Moss, mould or lichen
• Minor rust around fixings
• Small leaks from blocked flashings or valleys

A simple inspection can help you sort maintenance issues from structural ones. Steven recommends getting your roof checked every two to three years, especially after major weather events.

Why prep matters more than paint

Recoating isn’t just about throwing on a new colour. The most important part is what happens before the brush comes out.

Steven says preparation is everything. He compares it to trying to stick tape to a table covered in sugar. The tape doesn’t bond to the table, it sticks to the sugar. It’s the same with a roof. If it’s not cleaned properly first, the paint will stick to the dirt, not the surface. And that means it won’t last.

That’s why a good roof coating system starts with a thorough clean, moss and mould treatment, and in some cases, a sterilisation step. Once the surface is ready, it’s primed, sealed, and coated using a system designed to protect for the long haul.

When it’s time to replace

Some roofs are simply past their lifespan. If the roof has widespread rust, sagging framing, missing tiles or other structural issues, replacement is usually the safer option. It’s also worth considering how long you plan to stay in the home. For long-term owners, a full replacement with a long-life roofing system can be a smarter investment than ongoing repairs or recoating.

Weight is another key factor. If your current roof is lightweight, you may not be able to switch to something heavier, like concrete tiles, without reinforcing the framing. A licensed roofing professional can assess what your home can handle and help you plan accordingly.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.