Roof warning signs are cheap to fix when you catch them early and expensive when you do not. These are the seven we see most on Brighton and Sussex roofs, what each one means, and what to do about it.
1. Slipped, cracked or missing tiles
Each gap lets rain onto the felt. One or two is a small repair. Tiles slipping every winter means the nails or battens have failed and a bigger job is coming.
2. A damp patch on a ceiling
The water got in somewhere else and ran along the felt or timbers. Find the entry point, not just the stain.
3. Daylight in the loft
If you can see light through the roof, so can the rain. The felt has torn or perished.
4. A dip or wave in the roof line
A sagging ridge or slope points to failing timbers or overloaded rafters. Get it surveyed before it gets worse.
5. Thick moss
Moss holds water against the tiles, cracks them in frost and blocks the gutters. Roof cleaning stops it.
6. Lead lifting at the chimney or valleys
Lifted or split lead is one of the most common leaks on older roofs and one of the quickest to fix.
7. Overflowing gutters
Water spilling over the gutter soaks the wall and rots the fascia. Clean them and check the joints.
Get a real price for your roof
Ranges are a guide. The real number comes from someone looking at your roof. Michael comes out, shows you what is needed and gives you a free written quote.
Questions
How often should a roof be checked?
Once a year, and after any big storm. Our survey is free.
Can I check my roof myself?
From the ground with binoculars and from the loft with a torch, yes. Stay off the roof.
Is a damp patch always the roof?
Not always. Gutters, chimneys and condensation cause damp too. We find the real cause.