• By Liam Ridings
• In Blog, Metal Roofing, Renovation

What Is Roof Sarking?

Want to know how to keep your roof in tip-top shape and make sure it stands the test of time? It’s time to learn about roof sarking.

Whether building a new house, restoring an old roof or repairing your current one, it is important to be aware of what makes your roof reliable, energy-efficient and safe. Knowing what is roof sarking and the benefit of roof sarking is something every homeowner should have knowledge of. At Vertec Roofing, we are committed to delivering premium roofing solutions that are not only affordable but will stand the test of time. We operate all over Sydney to cater to your roofing needs and ensure every job is completed to the highest professional standards.

As roof sarking insulation specialists and experts in all things roofing, Vertec offer exceptional services in roof repairs, roof leak repairs, roof maintenance, roof replacement and roof restoration. To learn more about roof sarking and sarking insulation, read on.

What Is Roof Sarking?

So, what is sarking on a roof, you ask? Most people understand what insulation is and its role in your roof however, many have not heard of sarking. Roof sarking is a flexible membrane installed underneath the exterior roofing material. Sarking is primarily used to reduce issues with condensation, moisture and water vapour, all of which can cause serious problems in your roof and roof cavity.

To put it simply, it’s generally the big green or blue sheet you see being installed on a roof underneath the exterior roofing material (e.g. tiles or metal). When installed correctly, roof sarking acts as a layer of protection against rain and other airborne contaminants leaking into or building up in your roof

What Is Roof Sarking Made Of? 

Roof sarking is usually made with a reflective foil and non-permeable material. This helps to reflect heat and provide insulation while also ensuring external moisture and contaminants do not get inside your roof.

How Do I Know If I Need to Replace My Roof Sarking?

When we come to inspect old or problematic roofs, there can sometimes be tears of openings in the sarking. If this is the case, it is important to replace the damaged sections of the sarking to maintain the integrity of your roof and keep moisture and mould out.

The Benefits of Roof Sarking

Reduces moisture build in your roof

A massive benefit of roof sarking is it prevents unwanted moisture, vapour, and mould build-up. Firstly, if there are any gaps or breaks on your roof, any moisture that gets through will hit the sarking and run down into your gutters. If there was no sarking, the water could potentially leak into your roof cavity, causing all kinds of moisture and mould problems.

Protects your roof from the elements

In a country of extreme weather conditions, sarking not only reduces water getting into your roof but also provides another layer against smoke, ash, hail and other flying debris. Additionally, it can also protect against dust and other contaminants coming in through your roof in an urban setting. Airborne dust can be particularly irritating and even cause respiratory or cardiovascular issues.

Sarking can help with fire protection

What is roof sarking going to do in a bushfire you ask? Well, it provides a secondary layer of protection against flying embers entering your roof in the case of a bushfire. If you are in a bushfire prone area, there are mandatory requirements for buildings to meet bushfire safety requirements. Check with your local council or fire service to check if you need sarking as part of your building’s safety requirements.

It helps at the beginning of a build

Roof sarking is relatively easy to install and helps to protect your property from the elements and keep it dry at the start of a build or while the roof is still being installed.

It can help with your building’s energy efficiency

All new Australian homes must meet minimum energy efficiency requirements, and sarking can definitely help. When you combine sarking and insulation correctly, it can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home. Sarking’s reflective sheeting helps reflect heat away and reduce heat flow through your roof. Combining this with a high-quality insulation solution will help reduce your emission and energy bills all year round.

Now That I Know What Is Roof Sarking – Who Can I Call?

Get in contact with us at Vertec Roofing! We have experience across commercial, residential and industrial sectors across a wide range of projects. With more than 15 years’ experience as Sydney’s most trusted roof repair, roof maintenance and roof restoration professionals, we value your time and business. We won’t play any games or present you with unforeseen expenses, just high-quality roofing solutions.

We offer services including re-roofing and roofing replacement, gutter & fascia replacement and roof leak repairs, among many others. If you have a question about anything roofing, get in touch with us today.