Roof Repair in East Melbourne: Inside a Real Rebed and Repoint Job

Roof Repair in East Melbourne: Inside a Real Rebed and Repoint Job

A 40-year-old double storey home in East Melbourne. Cement tiles. A roof that was in desperate need of a rebed and repoint.

We caught up with Ryan from the Royce Roofing crew while the job was underway. Ryan has been roofing for 20 years and recently joined the Royce Roofing team. Here is what he had to say straight from the roof.

The Job: A 40-Year-Old Cement Tile Roof in East Melbourne

The property is a medium sized double storey home in East Melbourne with cement tiles, probably around 40 years old.

The scope of work for today was a rebed and repoint, valley iron replacement, and general roof maintenance.

Ryan summed up the condition of the roof straight away.

“This one was in desperate need of a rebed and repoint.” — Ryan, Royce Roofing crew member

Safety First: Setting Up on a Double Storey Roof

Before any work begins, the crew sets up all safety measures on site. On this job that included the temporary safety rail, working above signs, ladder guards, and safety checks with all permits in place.

“Obviously we complete all safety measures first.” — Ryan

One thing that stood out on this particular job was a skylight on the roof. The safety supervisor brought in specialist safety nets manufactured in Germany.

“Falling from height off the side of the roof is an obvious danger, but some people are not aware that skylights can be dangerous too. If you step on them and they’re old they can break and you can fall straight to the ground. Roofing work is definitely high risk.” — Ryan

What Sets Royce Roofing Apart?

Ryan has worked for other roofing companies over his 20 years in the trade. Asked what separates Royce Roofing, he did not hesitate.

“The safety, the brotherhood, the quality of work. When everyone works together and you get a good team, that results in good restorations for the customers.” — Ryan

What Is Rebed and Repoint?

Ryan walked us through the process from start to finish.

“We start off by removing all the ridge cappings, then removing all the old mortar, remix the mortar back down, and then we go over with a flexible pointing.” — Ryan

Over time the bedding material deteriorates and breaks down over decades. The goal is to restore the roof so it is completely watertight and looks presentable again.

“When it’s neglected, water begins to get through the bedding and then through to your ceiling and cause even more damage. Water finds a way.” — Ryan

What Happens If You Leave It Too Long?

Water getting through the bedding is just the start. Once it is in, the damage spreads quickly.

Beyond the ceiling itself, water can get into the insulation and damage electrical components inside the roof space.

“Water finds a way.” — Ryan

The longer a roof is left without maintenance, the more expensive the repair becomes.

How Do You Know If Your Roof Needs Work?

“It can be done by visual inspection. You can start to see surface cracks, dislodged ridge caps, things like that.” — Ryan

Most homeowners won’t get up on their roof themselves. Is there anything you can spot from the ground?

“Something can be noticed from the ground but it would take a roof tiler or someone with experience to notice these things. The best way is always an inspection from the roof.” — Ryan

If your roof is 30 years or older, or you are noticing small leaks, that is a good time to get someone up there for a proper look.

Do Certain Roof Types Age Faster?

East Melbourne is an exposed location with Melbourne’s full range of weather conditions. Does that affect how quickly a roof wears down?

“Every roof comes with its own unique challenge. Terracotta tiles installed close to the beach tend to wear down a little quicker than others. But in the right areas they last longer. It all depends on the tile, the location, the weather. Every house is different, every job is different.” — Ryan

What Should Homeowners Ask When Getting Quotes?

A smart homeowner getting a quote on roof work will look beyond the price. Ryan’s advice:

“Reputation, safety measures. Getting open and honest answers and information is probably a good way to ensure you will get a solid result when the roof eventually gets fixed.” — Ryan

Questions worth asking before accepting any quote:

• What does the quote include?
• What safety measures does the crew use on site?
• What warranties are included on materials and workmanship?
• Can they explain clearly what work needs to be done and why?

After the Restoration: What To Watch For

Once the roof is done, Ryan’s advice for keeping it in good condition:

“When getting other tradesmen to install things on your roof, like antenna people, just make sure they are cautious. Hire the right people to work on your roof and keep on top of your gutters.” — Ryan

Is Your Roof Due for an Inspection?

If your roof is getting on in years or you have noticed small leaks or displaced ridge caps, the right starting point is a proper inspection from someone who knows what they are looking at.

Royce Roofing provides an on-site roof inspections across Melbourne. We will give you a straight answer about what the roof needs — nothing more.

📞 Call us on 1300 992 911 to book your inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my roof needs a rebed and repoint?

Look for surface cracks on ridge caps, dislodged or loose ridge tiles, or chunks of old mortar appearing in your gutters. An inspection will confirm whether the bedding has deteriorated enough to need a rebed and repoint.

How long does a rebed and repoint last?

Done correctly with the right materials, a rebed and repoint should last 15 to 20 years. Using the wrong products or shortcuts significantly shortens that lifespan.

Is roofing work dangerous?

Yes. Working at height is high risk work and requires proper training, qualifications, and safety equipment. At Royce Roofing all crew members hold working at heights qualifications and safety measures are set up before any work begins.

What is the difference between a rebed and repoint and a full roof restoration?

A rebed and repoint focuses on the ridge caps and mortar. A full roof restoration is more comprehensive and includes cleaning, tile replacement, valley replacement, sealing and repainting across the entire roof. We will recommend the right option after an inspection.

How much does roof repair cost in Melbourne?

Cost depends on the size of the roof, the extent of the work required and access conditions. Royce Roofing provides on-site inspections and fixed-price quotes so you know exactly what the job will cost before any work begins. Call 1300 992 911 to arrange an inspection.

Do I need to be home for the inspection or the repair?

For the inspection it helps to be available so we can walk you through what we find. For the repair itself, as long as we have safe access to the roof our crew can complete the work while you are out.