The old adage of Ensure you have a roof over your head! not only applies to our budgeting, but also to the maintenance needed on every property. With the extreme weather being experienced by practically every region in the world, it is literally a case of A stitch in time saves nine.

By this time in Namibia’s rainy season, we will have a clear picture of the state of our roofs and ceilings. May the sound of dripping water be the rain outside and not the rain off our ceilings and into every conceivable container. Yes, we are to save water, but not quite like that.



Checking the gutters for piled up debris is normally done in Spring before the first rain. While you are up there collecting stuff with a trowel and bucket (safety first!), check for corroded spots and loose bolts and screws. Ensure that the rainwater will be relayed to a safe area away from the building’s foundations.

Next do an inspection from inside the ceiling – again, safety first: No-one wants to come tumbling down into the building and look the fool. Dr Google and his precocious cousin AI will have lots of tips on this score.



Check for light coming through the roof, for where light is, rain will surely follow. Those spots need fixing. Are there mouldy beams which were damp last season? Become a leak-detective. By this time, you will be hot, sweaty and thirsty underneath that roof. Time for a quick swig of cold water!
Depending on the type of roof cover, you may need professional help unless you are a geeky DIY-er.

There are numerous aspects to consider: Rotten eaves and fascia boards, cracked tiles or slates, leaking metal valleys, corrugated iron sheets that have come unstuck, rotten battens or rafters.

Ensure the gutters and downpipes are fit for the job. Gutters that are too narrow may need to be replaced with larger ones. To determine the size needed, take into account the average mm per shower over an average year plus the roof catchment area.

Flat roofs are notorious for developing leaks as the felt lining is inclined to bubble and hold water. Such blisters need to be cut open, dried out and patched.
The joints, parapets, flashings, air extractors or chimneys are the weak spots on any roof. Waterproofing around these needs to be meticulously done and double-checked often.

Ceilings that have been damaged should be replaced as soon as possible, as mould is bad for the health.