Roof Tips
Cleaning fungus and mould
The fungal and mould growth is always more pronounced on the southern facing sections. An solution of chlorine (HTH) and water (250ml HTH to 5litres of water) scrubbed into the surface cleans this very effectively and economically. Once applied, leave for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse the roof thoroughly with clean water all the while scrubbing it with a stiff haired grass broom.
Roof painting tips from the pros
In summer, start early and stop at 11 o’ clock to avoid the midday sun. Only resume painting at 14H00 and carry on till late. Even with doing this the temperature of the roof surface may still be too hot and we recommend cooling the surface by spraying water on it. As soon as the water has started evaporating, resume painting. A good test is to touch the surface with the back of your hand. If it is uncomfortable for you, the paint won’t like it either!
MFFT
In winter one needs to look out for “frost bite”. Most paints has a MFFT (minimum film formation temperature). Close to this (or below) this temperature will result in a complete paint failure. For this reason o not start painting before 9 and keep to the sunny side of the roof. Also, stop applying paint at 15H30 as the paint needs at least 2 hours to cure sufficiently and the temperature drops quickly from 16H00 onwards.
Fiberite
On tiled roofs it is always a good idea to spend some time and ULTIMATE FIBERITE on the ridge capping before painting. This remarkable product binds any loose and/or broken filler between the ridge tiles making for a 100% sound and waterproof capping.
Waterproofing your Roof
Step 1: Clean the roof surface and leave to dry. Remove all dirt, grime and grease. Ensure any loose or flaking paint has been removed. Once the surface has been cleaned and dried move onto the next step.
Step 2: Apply a quote of Midek Roofseal or Fiberite to the roof surface over the area that needs to be waterproofed. Do not thin the Roofseal or Fiberite.
Step 3: Immediately place a waterproofing membrane into the wet coat of Midek Roofseal or Fiberite and apply another coat of roofseal or fiberite over the waterproofing membrane.
Step 4: The Roofsealer or Fiberite will take up to 48 hours to dry (weather permitting). When dry you will be able to paint over the area using our range of Midek roof paints.
*Remember when working at heights to always put your safety first.