Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about roof restorations, replacements, repairs and everything in between across Canberra.
Should I restore or replace my Canberra roof?
It comes down to the condition of the tiles or sheets. If they're structurally sound and just worn, a restoration renews the weatherproofing for a fraction of a re-roof and adds 10–15 years. If the tiles are porous or hail-shattered, or a metal roof is badly rusted, replacement is the better long-term value. We inspect first and give you an honest verdict — restoration where it stacks up, replacement only when it's genuinely needed.
What does roof work cost in Canberra?
It depends on the roof's size, pitch, access and condition, so there's no single number — but a restoration is consistently a fraction of the cost of a full replacement. Rather than guess, we inspect your roof and give you a fixed written quote up front; the price we quote is the price you pay unless the scope changes.
Why do Canberra roofs crack and leak so often?
Canberra's frost is the main culprit. The freeze-thaw cycle works on old, rigid ridge pointing until it cracks and lets water in, and summer hail does the rest on brittle tiles. Add the leaf litter from Canberra's tree canopy blocking valleys and gutters, and you have the three causes behind most of the leaks we repair.
How long does the work take?
A roof restoration is usually a few days, weather permitting. A full replacement runs from a few days to a couple of weeks depending on size, structure and whether you're converting tile to metal. We confirm the timeframe in your quote and keep you updated on site each day.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes — we're ACT-licensed roof plumbers (Licence 242220C), fully insured, and our coating system carries a 15-year warranty* (conditions apply, see our terms). We're a local Canberra business based in Giralang, trading as ReACT Roofing.
What roofs and areas do you cover?
We work on concrete tile, terracotta tile, Colorbond and other metal roofs, plus tile-to-metal conversions — restoration, repairs, painting, cleaning, gutters and full replacements. We cover all of Canberra, from Belconnen and Gungahlin to Tuggeranong, Woden, Weston Creek, the Inner North and South, and across to Queanbeyan.
Do I need council approval to replace my roof?
Like-for-like replacements are generally exempt development in ACT. Changing materials (e.g. tile to metal) is usually still exempt for most homes, but heritage areas and some zones have rules — we confirm what applies to your property as part of the quote.
Can you work around solar panels?
Yes — we coordinate panel removal and reinstallation with accredited solar installers when a roof needs work underneath, and we'll factor it into the quote so there are no surprises.
Is a roof restoration safe for my drinking-water tanks?
Yes, when done properly — we use potable-water-safe coating systems and manage first-flush diversion after the job. Tell us you're on tank water and we'll specify accordingly.
What happens if it rains during my roof job?
Your home stays weatherproof — we never open more roof than we can close, and coatings are scheduled around weather windows. Rain may shift the timeline a day or two; it never risks your home.
Do you give fixed quotes or estimates?
Fixed written quotes, after a real inspection. The price we quote is the price you pay unless you change the scope.
Are you licensed and insured?
Fully — ACT Roof Plumber Licence 242220C, with public liability insurance. We're happy to show certificates with any quote.
How soon can you start?
Urgent leak repairs are prioritised — usually within days. Restorations and replacements are typically scheduled within a few weeks depending on season and weather.
Do you handle insurance claims for storm damage?
We provide detailed photo reports and quotes in the format insurers need, and we're experienced working alongside assessors after major weather events.