How to patch strap on rooftop tiles?

Question

Hi, the black strap feels like hard rubber on each side of the rooftop tiles. It got glued down onto the tiles, probably. The strap in the red circle is broken. It looks like someone tried to seal it by white glue or something but it failed. Could anyone tell me what's the black material? Where can I get it? What sealant do I use to patch it? Thanks.

MitchellMc · Answer

Many thanks for the update, @victoriana.

Glad you got it sorted.

Mitchell

victoriana · Answer

Hi Mitchell,

Thanks for your advice. It was very helpful. I fixed it yesterday. Have a good day!

Fisher

MitchellMc · Answer

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @victoriana. It's wonderful to have you join us and many thanks for your question sealing a gap.

The black material you're referring to appears to be lead or aluminium flashing that has been dressed over the profile of the roof tiles to help prevent water ingress. It looks like the flashing has split or separated at a joint, and the white material appears to be a previous repair attempt that has unfortunately failed.

For a temporary repair, I'd suggest carefully pulling the flashing back slightly at the joint and applying a quality gutter and roof silicone underneath to re-adhere the area and seal any gaps. Once the silicone has cured, you could then paint over the repaired joint with a bitumen paint to provide additional weather protection.

One thing I'd like to mention is that I can't confirm from the photo alone, but those roof tiles appear to be an unusual profile and could potentially contain asbestos. Until you've verified otherwise, I'd recommend treating them as though they may contain asbestos. Avoid walking on the roof or disturbing the tiles unnecessarily, as damage can release fibres if they do contain asbestos.

If access to the area or the repair process requires disturbing the tiles, I'd recommend engaging a roofing professional to carry out the work safely and assess the condition of the flashing at the same time.

Please let us know if you have any further questions.

Mitchell