Most roofs give plenty of warning before they fail. Catching it early means a planned re-roof instead of an emergency call-out and water damage inside. Here are six signs worth acting on.
1. Age
Concrete tiles last around 40-60 years, natural slate 80-100+, and a felt flat roof 15-20. If yours is near the end of that range, start planning even if it still looks sound.
2. Slipped, cracked or missing tiles and slates
One or two is a repair. Widespread slipping usually means the fixing nails or timber battens are corroding or rotting – and that is a whole-roof problem.
3. Grit in the gutters or bald patches on a flat roof
Granules washing off felt shingles or a mineral flat roof, or shiny bald areas, mean the weatherproof layer is breaking down and UV is now attacking the base.
4. Daylight or damp in the loft
Go into the loft on a bright day. Pinpoints of daylight through the boards, or damp staining and black mould on the underside of the felt, mean water is getting in.
5. Stains or bulging on top-floor ceilings
Brown patches, peeling paint or sagging plaster on upstairs ceilings are often a roof leak that has been running for a while. Chimney and valley flashing is a common culprit.
6. A sagging or dipping roofline
Stand across the road and look along the ridge and eaves. A dip or wave can point to rotten timbers, undersized rafters or long-term water damage to the structure. Get this checked promptly.
Repair or replace?
- Repair if the damage is localised and the rest of the roof – covering, battens, flashing – is sound.
- Replace if the covering is at the end of its life, there are multiple leaks, or repair bills are mounting up. A re-roof also lets you upgrade the felt, insulation and ventilation.
Arkivon Group carries out roof repairs and full re-roofs across North West London – slate, tile, flat roof and leadwork. See our roofing services or book a free roof inspection and we will tell you honestly whether it needs a repair or a replacement.