Summer – the perfect time for roof maintenance

Believe it or not, as we approach the Summer months and hopefully the warmer, dryer weather, now is the perfect time to start thinking about your roof!

The high winds, heavy rains, and icy conditions that the Country has experienced over the last few years are unfortunately forecast to be a continuing feature of our winters.

These weather trends take their toll on the roofs of our homes and businesses. A summer check-up could catch that unseen damage to your roofs, chimneys, fascias, and guttering before it becomes an expensive problem.

Getting a problem fixed in the Summer months is easier than in the winter when roofing contractors tend to be booked weeks in advance, especially after a spell of bad weather!

In poor conditions, a roofing contractor often can’t get safe access to repair an issue, meaning delays and possible further problems. During the Summer, the weather doesn’t slow down work as much so less time and inconvenience for you.

Check your roof regularly

It’s easy to forget about your roof, it’s just there and unless something happens, we tend to assume everything is fine.

Look up! Where possible, scan over your roof to see if there are any noticeable slipped or damaged tiles or slates. Are the ridge tiles seated properly or have they moved? How’s your chimney looking, can you see any vegetation or dislodged brick facings? Don’t forget your lead work, guttering, and any fascias you may have.

If you can, go into your loft space. If your roof has it, check the felt hasn’t slipped or become torn or worn. Can you see any daylight anywhere? This could be a sign of unseen problems.

If you can’t check your roof and loft space easily, consider getting a trained and qualified roofing contractor in to take a look. Or better yet, why not take out a regular maintenance plan for real peace of mind. After all, you get your heating serviced and your burglar alarm checked so why not the other major item that keeps you and your home or business safe?

Catching problems early can save you money and hassle so it is well worth doing!

About the lead work

Lead is most commonly used on a roof to seal the joints between two surfaces.
You’ve probably heard of ‘flashing’ but may not realise what it does. Lead flashing acts as a barrier between your roof and brickwork. Used correctly, it can prevent leaks, and keep your roof safe from changes in the weather. Lead flashing can be found in many areas throughout a house, from your walls and doors to your skylights, vents, and roof valleys.

Lead is very flexible and will adapt well to changes such as settling. However, if it starts to lift it can allow rainwater to seep into the joints that it is trying to protect. This can cause major damage, leading to costly repairs.

Although very long-lasting, it doesn’t last forever, so especially in older properties, it is worth getting it checked by a professional who knows what to look for.

Soffits, Fascias and Bargeboards

Roofs have three additional parts that help tie everything together. They finish the look of the building and help to protect the roof and the building. These are the Soffits, Fascias and Bargeboards.

Bargeboards are attached to the property gables, they help to cover any exposed materials and prevent damage from the elements. They also provide a finished look to many properties.

Fascias run along the roofline, they cover and protect the fittings underneath, keeping them watertight and away from weather damage. They also help secure the last line of roof tiles.

Soffits are attached to the underside of the fascias, boxing off the fittings and the joins and providing a better visual finish.

It is important to check and maintain these regularly to stop unwanted damage from happening beneath the surface, which can be difficult to spot. If you spot a problem, it is best to get a professional contractor to survey as they can check for signs of damage to the roof and building fabric.

Pay attention to your flat roofs

Many domestic properties tend to have flat roofs at lower levels, so they are easier to check as they provide easier safer access. Commercial and high-rise properties will often have access hatches or doors leading out. However, it is still worth getting a reliable roofing contractor to come and take a look.

The joins and seams on a flat roof are the main problem areas. Both hot and cold temperatures can cause them to lift and allow water in. If caught early enough, they can be a simple and affordable fix as it is often just the top layer of felt that has been affected.

Hidden damage may cause the roof to be unsafe for weight-bearing. Flat roofs can look OK on the surface, but there are tell-tale signs of underlying damage that an expert will be able to see and report on. A flat roof which forms puddles can mean that there is a major problem with the boarding underneath. This should be checked out immediately as it can lead to the roof needing to be replaced.

Getting your roof ready for Winter

It’s really important to make sure that your roof is ready for whatever our Winter throws at it.

Make sure you check your roof, chimney, lead work, guttering, and fascias.
Look at any cement work in valleys or on ridges for signs of cracking or breaking.
Don’t forget the loft space an internal check can reveal things an external look might not be able to see!

If you see any issues or think there might be, call a reputable roofing contractor straight away. It is far better to have a small repair done than a major roof replacement because you left it too long!

A business can incur major financial and reputational losses through a leaking roof which damages stock and affects customer service. Prevention, in this case, is far less costly than a cure.

Whatever shape, size or age your roof is, regular maintenance is vital to keeping it, and therefore your home or business, in the best possible state. Problems which start with the roof can often lead to deterioration of the fabric of the building itself. Resulting in big bills, a loss of income and a great deal of inconvenience.

A regular maintenance contract is the best way of keeping a roof over your head. But whatever you do, remember to look up regularly and don’t neglect an important part of your property