Maintaining Your Roof in Singapore: Best Practices

A well-kept roof protects the rest of the building. Singapore's heavy rainfall and high humidity wear roofs down over time, so regular care is cheaper than major repairs.

Regular inspection

Inspect your roof at least twice a year, and after heavy storms. Look for cracks, loose or lifted sheets, rust, damaged flashing and stained ceilings below. Pay particular attention to where the roof meets walls, as these joints are prone to leaks. Catching a problem early is usually far cheaper than fixing water damage later.

Design for maintainability

If you are building or renovating, plan for upkeep. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) publishes guidance on designing buildings for maintainability. Features such as safe access, edge protection and easy-to-reach gutters make future maintenance simpler and safer.

Safety first

Working on a roof is dangerous. Falls from height are a leading cause of serious workplace injuries in Singapore, and roof work by workers is covered by the Work at Heights Regulations, which expect a fall prevention plan among other controls (see our guide to roofing safety standards). Homeowners should not climb onto roofs themselves, especially wet roofs or those with fragile sheets or skylights. Hire a contractor who follows safe work-at-height practices.

Regular cleaning

Leaves, twigs and dirt build up on roofs and clog drains and gutters, which leads to ponding and leaks. Cleaning also lets you spot damage early. Use a contractor who has the right equipment and safety arrangements.

Housekeeping

• Remove debris promptly.
• Keep gutters and downpipes clear so water does not overflow into the roof.
• Trim branches near the roof so they do not scrape the surface in strong winds.
• Check that rooftop items such as water tanks and antennas are secure.

Specific steps depend on your roof type, building design and use, so ask a qualified roofing contractor what suits your property.