Why Full Roof Waterproofing After Adding Extra Rooms is a Brilliant Idea
- Hettie Schoeman
- Jun 18, 2024
- 3 min read

Adding new sections to your home can be like giving it a fabulous makeover, but sometimes those new additions come with their own set of quirks.
Building new rooms sometimes means new roof sections, which can create sneaky little spots where leaks love to hide.
And as we all know, sometimes that wet spot is not an indication of the precise location of the leak.

Sealing Shenanigans
The joins between old and new parts of the roof can be tricky. If the flashing (think of it as the roof's shiny belt) isn’t fitted just right, water might sneak through, causing a bit of a wet mess.

Valley Vagaries
Roof valleys are like the runways for rainwater, guiding it smoothly off the roof. But if the new addition creates a bump in the runway, you might end up with a water traffic jam, leading to leaks.

Expansion Adventures
New materials can expand and contract at different rates than the old and if they don’t move together perfectly, gaps can appear, inviting water in for an unwanted visit, irritating dripping and potential structural damage.
Using different materials for new additions can sometimes also be like mixing polka dots with stripes. Over time, this mismatch can create weak spots especially around chimneys, valleys and parapet walls, prime locations for leaks to pop up.

Design Dilemmas
If the new addition wasn’t meticulously planned, some unexpected water flow issues and even ponding may cause a few headaches. And if the roof of the new addition doesn't have a pitch, seriously consider full waterproofing for peace of mind. Flat roofs especially, should be waterproofed as a pre-emptive measure against leaks or ponding.

Another potential problem area is a parapet wall. Modern parapets are designed to resemble a sleek railing, adding a decorative finishing touch that's both chic and functional, giving a roofline a stylish flair!

But why do parapet walls leak? They like to move and groove! Parapets expand and contract more than the rest of the wall due to moisture and temperature changes, and the hidden flashing can create weak spots that are prone to cracking.
Flashing Follies
Even the best-installed flashing can wear out over time. If lower-quality materials were used to save a few bucks, this could happen sooner rather than later, leading to leaks and a soggy situation.
And don’t forget regular inspections—because even the best-dressed homes need a little maintenance to keep looking fabulous!

Full Roof Waterproofing: The Delightful Benefits!
Peace of Mind
Fully waterproofed up top, means you can relax, even during the heaviest rainstorms.
By blocking water from soaking into your roofing materials, you fend off mold, mildew, and rot. This means fewer repairs and replacements, which saves you money in the long run.
Longer Roof Life
Waterproofing isn’t just about keeping the rain out; it also helps your roof live a long, happy life and spraying the whole roof with waterproofing covers every nook and cranny, giving your home seamless protection from water.
Energy Efficiency Boost
A waterproofed roof helps keep your home’s temperature just right. By keeping moisture out, you also keep your insulation working at its best. This means staying cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, and who doesn’t love lower energy bills?
Added Home Value
A fully waterproofed roof can be a great selling point if you ever decide to move. Potential buyers will appreciate a home that’s well-protected from water damage, and this extra feature can help justify a higher price. Your investment pays off when it's time to sell.
Smart Maintenance
While the upfront cost of waterproofing might seem steep, it’s a smart maintenance move. Regular roof repairs can add up quickly. A full waterproofing treatment minimizes the need for frequent fixes and keeps your roof in top shape for years.
Roof Beauty
Waterproofing can also help your roof look fabulous. Our spray-on waterproofing solution includes UV protection, keeping your roofing materials from fading and breaking down.
This means your roof stays looking fresh and well-maintained, adding to your home’s curb appeal.

Conclusion
Adding new features to your home is super exciting and a fantastic way to enhance your living space. With thoughtful design, matching materials, and/or if not...at least proper waterproofing, you can keep things stylish and leak-free.
Having your entire roof sprayed with our rubber waterproofing is a brilliant investment that offers all-around protection, extends your roof’s lifespan, boosts energy efficiency, and provides peace of mind. Plus, it can even increase your home’s value and curb appeal.
If you're in the Hartbeespoort, Rustenburg, Pretoria/Johannesburg area, give Gerrie a call on 074 364 9092 for all your waterproofing headaches.
Comments