When do I need a roof renovation?

Roof renovation for pitched roofs

Do you have concrete roof tiles or sheets on your pitched roof? These generally last a maximum of 30 years until they really need replacement.

• Concrete roof tiles that have been long-term moist due to shadows also wear out faster than roof tiles that are regularly in the sun.

• The presence of trees (leaf debris and shadows) and the level of maintenance also determine the lifespan of a concrete roof tile.

To extend the lifespan a bit, it's best to have your concrete roof tiles cleaned regularly. Unfortunately, after a certain time, they become too old and need to be replaced anyway.

Are your roof tiles made of clay? Then they last 50 to 100 years.

That is also the main reason why clay roof tiles have become so popular in recent years. Until a few years ago, concrete tiles were significantly cheaper and available in many more colors than clay tiles. However, the price difference between the two types of tiles is no longer as pronounced, and the lifespan of clay tiles or ceramic roof tiles is greater than that of concrete tiles. Therefore, ceramic roof tiles are more than worth the slightly higher investment cost in the long term.

Our tip: In terms of price-quality, clay tiles are the most interesting solution. At Dural Bouwgroep, we work exclusively with clay tiles, artificial slates, and natural slates and not with concrete tiles or roof sheets because this quality does not meet our standards.

Contact us for free and non-binding tailored advice.

Over time, clay roof tiles also become dated due to wear and aging.

• There is a good chance that the tiles will become porous. When that happens, their water-repellent power disappears, and serious leaks can occur on your roof.

• Additionally, porous roof tiles absorb a lot of water and retain it. A disadvantage of this is that moss and algae get the chance to grow on the roof tiles.

• Furthermore, porous roof tiles can sometimes crack in cold temperatures and frost. Your roof is obviously also due for replacement when multiple roof tiles are damaged.

Do you have a roof covered with natural slates or artificial slates? Just like concrete roof tiles, artificial slates have a lifespan of about 30 years. After that, it is advisable to have your roof checked by an expert who renovates your roof and replaces the roof covering. Natural slates, on the other hand, have the longest lifespan and last more than 100 years. After this period, your roof is, of course, already quite old and will also need replacement.

Roof renovation for flat roofs

A flat roof generally lasts for decades, but maintenance is eventually needed here too to avoid a complete replacement of the roof and the roof structure.

When a flat roof is not well insulated, it is possible for the roof covering to expand or contract due to temperature fluctuations. This can cause cracks in the material. When that happens, it is necessary to have your flat roof properly insulated and to install a new roof covering like roofing.

Furthermore, the roof covering of flat roofs, just like with pitched roofs, can age, leading to leaks. You should have leaks repaired as soon as possible to prevent the structure of your roof from being affected.

Another reason to have your flat roof renovated is a poor installation of the current roof covering. Does the EPDM or roofing on your roof not fit well onto your roof decking or roof insulation? Is the roof covering coming loose at the edges? This can severely damage your roof, causing you to go from one repair to another. In that case, it is best to opt for a complete replacement of the roof covering.

Roof renovation due to asbestos

Finally, it is also highly recommended to have your roof renovated when it contains asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos is the collective name for a type of rock that contains minerals with tough, non-flammable fibers.

In the past, asbestos (mainly asbestos sheets) was widely used as a building material because it is fire-resistant and provides good insulation. Unfortunately, there is also a major disadvantage associated with asbestos. Certain asbestos fibers incorporated in the material are very dangerous to health when inhaled. Especially when the asbestos-containing material is loose or damaged, it is advisable to have it removed by a professional team and replaced with new roof covering.

Since 2022, an asbestos certificate is mandatory when selling homes built before 2001. By 2032, it will also be mandatory for every homeowner of a house built before 2001.

Also read: Everything you need to know about the asbestos certificate.

Your roof deserves sustainable craftsmanship

We ensure maximum savings on your roof renovation thanks to our sustainable energy solutions.

At Dural Bouwgroep, you are in good hands:

• More than 25 years of craftsmanship and experience

• Clear communication and continuous follow-up of all your projects

• Sustainable energy solutions that are not only good for the environment but also for your wallet.

• Your satisfaction is our top priority, with a special focus on customer experience. Feel free to check our +225 Google reviews.

• We stand confidently behind our work: enjoy 15 years warranty on all our projects.

• Don't miss out on premiums! Our special premium service guides you through the process. Together, we ensure you don't leave money on the table.

Do you have questions about your roof renovation or are you curious about the costs of roofing works? Contact us for expert advice and a non-binding quote.