During a reroof in New Zealand, flashings are usually replaced because they need to suit the new roofing profile and are common leak points. Underlay is also commonly replaced if it is old, brittle or damaged. Spouting and ceiling insulation may be retained if they are still in good condition.
Your reroofing quote should clearly state which components are being replaced and which will remain.
When homeowners think about reroofing, they usually picture the old roof coming off and new roofing going on.
But the roofing system also includes flashings, spouting, underlay, roof penetrations and insulation. Some of these components may need replacing, while others can remain if they are still sound.
A typical reroof usually follows six main stages:
For many Auckland homes, the reroofing process takes around two weeks, depending on the roof size, weather conditions and any repairs identified once the old roof is removed.
The roof, structure and known problem areas are inspected and the scope of work is confirmed.
The existing roofing is removed. Additional controls may be required if asbestos-containing materials are suspected.
The roofing team can then inspect the framing, underlay, flashings, penetrations and other concealed areas.
Any agreed repairs to timber or other roofing components are completed before the new roof is installed.
New underlay, roofing, flashings and penetration seals are installed as required.
The completed roof is checked and the site is cleaned before handover.
Roof flashings are formed metal components used to weatherproof roof junctions, edges and penetrations where water is most likely to enter.
They are commonly installed around:
Their role is to direct water away from vulnerable areas and into the roof drainage system.
Usually, yes.
Flashings often need to be replaced because they must suit the profile, material and coating of the new roofing. Older flashings may also be corroded, poorly sealed or nearing the end of their useful life.
Sound flashings may occasionally be retained, but this should be clearly stated in the reroofing quote.
| Flashing type | Where it sits | Usually replaced? |
|---|---|---|
| Ridge | Along the roof peak | Yes |
| Valley | Where two roof slopes meet | Yes, as it carries concentrated water flow |
| Barge | Along sloping roof edges | Usually |
| Apron | Where the roof meets a wall | Usually |
| Penetration flashing | Around vents, flues and skylights | Resealed or replaced |
Flashings are installed in areas where water collects, changes direction or meets another part of the building.
A small gap, rusted section or failed seal can allow water to enter the roof system.
This is why a new roof can still develop leaks if the flashings are poorly installed or have deteriorated.
Valley flashings are particularly important because they can carry a large amount of water during heavy Auckland rain
Spouting (gutters) is inspected during a reroof and may be retained if it is sound, correctly angled and free from significant rust, cracks or leaks.
Older spouting may show:
If the spouting is nearing the end of its useful life, replacing it during the reroof can avoid having to disturb the new roof edge later.
Underlay is usually replaced during a reroof in NZ because it is difficult to access once the new roofing is installed, and older underlay may be brittle, torn or no longer performing effectively.
The roof underlay sits between the roofing and framing. It helps manage moisture, reduce condensation and provide additional protection to the roof structure.
New underlay should meet current NZ Building Code requirements.
Not usually.
Ceiling insulation generally sits within the roof space rather than directly beneath the roofing, so it is often left in place during a reroof if it remains in good condition.
A reroof can, however, be a useful time to inspect accessible insulation for issues such as:
Roof Repair Specialists does not install ceiling insulation, but visible roofing-related issues can be identified during the reroofing work. Insulation concerns can then be assessed by an appropriate specialist.
Any roof penetration requires careful attention during a reroof.
Common roof penetrations include:
These areas need to be properly integrated with the new roofing system.
If an existing penetration is damaged, poorly sealed or incorrectly detailed, reroofing provides an opportunity to address the issue before the new roof is completed.
During a full reroof, the existing roof covering is removed and disposed of appropriately.
Depending on the property, this may include:
Older roofing may require additional planning if asbestos-containing materials are suspected.
No.
A reroof does not necessarily mean every component connected to the roof needs to be replaced.
The condition of each component should be assessed individually.
For example, a property might need:
The right combination depends on the condition of the existing roofing system.
Before accepting a reroofing quote, check what is included:
This makes it much easier to compare quotes accurately.
For a long-run COLORSTEEL roof warranty, details should also be confirmed in writing.
Roof Repair Specialists provides a 5-year workmanship warranty, while COLORSTEEL roofing materials may carry a material warranty of up to 30 years, depending on the product and the property’s exposure and environment.
Two roofing quotes can look similar at first but include very different scopes of work.
Auckland roofs are exposed to a combination of:
Properties across the North Shore, West Auckland and other parts of the city can experience very different exposure depending on location.
A coastal property may face different conditions from a more sheltered inland home.
That is why reroofing should be assessed according to the individual property rather than treated as a standard replacement package.
Replacing a roof gives homeowners an opportunity to look beyond the roofing material itself.
The important question is not only:
“What roofing should I install?”
It is also:
“What condition is the entire roofing system in?”
That includes:
Addressing appropriate issues while the roof is already being worked on can help reduce unnecessary disruption later.
Usually, yes. Flashings need to suit the new roofing profile and material, and older flashings may already be corroded or poorly sealed. Sound flashings may occasionally be retained, so check what is included in your quote.
Not always. Sound, correctly angled spouting, can remain. Replacement may be worthwhile if the spouting is rusted, cracked, leaking at the joints or approaching the end of its useful life.
Usually, yes. Older underlay may be brittle, torn or no longer performing effectively, and it is difficult to access once the new roof is installed. New underlay should meet current NZ Building Code requirements.
Not usually. Ceiling insulation sits within the roof space and is often retained if it is still in good condition. If it is thin, damp, damaged or missing, it can be assessed by an appropriate insulation specialist while the roof work is underway.
Building consent may not be required for some like-for-like reroofing work, but requirements can vary depending on the roofing material, structural changes and the scope of the project. Check with your local council or a qualified building professional before work begins.
Most Auckland homes take around two weeks, depending on roof size, weather conditions and any repairs identified once the existing roof is removed.
A reroof involves more than removing old roofing and installing new sheets or tiles.
Spouting may be retained or replaced. Flashings often need renewal. Underlay is commonly replaced. Insulation can be assessed separately, while roof penetrations and drainage details also need careful attention.
The important thing is to establish what your particular Auckland home actually needs before the work begins.
Planning a reroof in Auckland? Roof Repair Specialists can assess your existing roof and explain what needs replacing, what can remain and which options suit your property.
