Louvre Roof Maintenance: How to Keep Your System Running Smoothly

Investing in a louvre roof for your pergola is not just about giving you a stylish new roof, it is a modern design that will shield you from the sun and protect you from the rain, provided you with regular maintenance it serves you well.

Whilst keeping your new louvre roof looking good may be important for the aesthetics of your property, it is not the only reason to perform regular maintenance. It will also ensure that the louvres open and close without jamming, it will help increase the lifespan and prevent corrosion and wear, and it will ensure that no parts have loosened or fallen over time, keeping you and your family safe from any unwanted accidents.

Regular maintenance of your louvre roof will keep it free from dirt, mould and rust, and help you detect any mechanical issues early on, increasing the lifespan and durability of your pergola from Outdoor InDesign.

The Idea of a Louvre is to Move!

A louvre roof is designed to create a fully functional, all-weather covered outdoor space, upgrading traditional pergolas into modern and functional areas. The louvre, or tilting slat, is operated through a motorised system which usually rotates the louvres up to 150 or 180 degrees so they can fully or partially open to let in sunlight and shut completely to keep out rain.

They are usually constructed using high-quality aluminium or marine-grade steel because these materials are lightweight, durable and rust resistant, and they are designed to withstand the harsh Australian climate, but although they are marketed as low-maintenance, they do require a little help to keep moving freely!

Being constantly exposed to strong sun, wind, rain, and salt spray in coastal areas, these structures can suffer from damaged mechanisms, leaks and a reduced lifespan. Some manufacturers may require proof of maintenance to maintain the warranty on powder coatings and motors.

Step-By-Step Guide to Maintaining Your Louvre Roof

It is recommended to maintain louvre roofs every 3 months in coastal areas, or every 6 months in other clean, standard environments. It is always worth doing a post-storm inspection to immediately clear any debris caused by severe weather, to prevent any blockages. It is worth performing a deep clean in spring to remove any accumulated pollen and check for any winter damage.

• Start by clearing the area by removing any outdoor furniture, decor or plants from under the roof and gather the materials you will need: a soft-bristled broom, a bucket of warm, soapy water (avoid harsh cleaners, mild detergents like dish soap are fine), and a soft sponge or microfibre cloth.
• First remove all surface dirt from the roof using a soft broom or brush. Sweep leaves, twigs and dust off the roof so it doesn't turn into mud.
• Open the louvres and clean between them to remove any debris trapped between the blades, and gently scrub them individually with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Rinse gently with a garden hose.
• Next, clean the frame and gutters, removing any visible debris and use a narrow hose to flush any small clogs.
• Rinse with a low-pressure garden hose and make sure all detergent residue is washed away and allow to air dry or use a microfibre cloth to prevent streaks.
• Now check and lubricate the moving parts. Use a silicone-based spray lubricant like CRC or WD 40 Specialist Silicone to spray pivot points, joints and hinges, and motor housing.
• Tighten any loose screws or caps, then operate the roof fully open and closed a few times to spread the lubricant.