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As winter finally leaves us, it’s time to start thinking about your roof. Months of cold temperatures, heavy rain, and (maybe) even snow can have a huge impact on the integrity of your roof.
Spotting these issues early on, and addressing them as soon as possible, is essential for protecting your roof.
In this article, we’re going to talk through common roofing issues you might notice in spring, and what you can do to fix them.
Your gutters are incredibly busy in autumn and winter, first with fallen leaves and then with rain and snow.
Blocked gutters can lead to water pooling on your roof, which increases your chances of leaks and interior damage like mould.
Fix: If you haven’t already done so over winter, spring is a great time to clean your gutters. You might be able to manage this yourself, as long as you have a tall enough ladder and the right tools. If not, most roofing contractors will offer a gutter cleaning service.
One of the most worrying springtime roofing issues is finding a leak! After clearing and cleaning your roof, you might find weak spots that have gone unnoticed over winter. Signs of leaks include mould growth, damp insulation/ceilings and marks on ceilings and walls.
If you suspect a leak, it’s important to act quickly and get in touch with roofing contractors. This is definitely not a problem that will go away on its own. The longer you leave it the worse it will get!
Fix: Call a roofing contractor ASAP. They’ll be able to find the route cause of the leak before recommending the best course of action.
Your roof can look like a cosy shelter for animals like birds and squirrels, especially in the winter when the trees are bare! As cute as these animals are, they’re a nightmare for your roof.
They’ll often nest in loose flashing, chimneys and attics, and if left unchecked, they can cause serious structural damage to your home. If you hear scratching sounds, or you notice animal poop, it’s time to call the professionals.
Fix: Call a pest control expert immediately. They’ll be able to remove/rehome any animal nests, leaving your roof free and clear.
If you’ve got concerns about your roof that we haven’t addressed on this list, get in touch. Our roofing contractors offer a range of roofing inspections and roofing repair services, including gutter repairs, roof surveys, moss removal and roof replacements.
It depends on the construction, but the minimum weight a flat roof must be capable of bearing is 300lbs. This refers to a concentrated weight where a load is positioned on just one area of the roof. So, for example, a commercial flat roof can approximately support a 300lb HVAC unit in a 2.5×2.5ft single space.
If you opt for a flat roof anywhere on your property, remember that it comes with a need for proper maintenance. Low-slope roofing London-wide should be checked every six months or so, or after spells of bad weather, to spot any signs of damage. No matter how small, these should be addressed before they escalate. Remove any debris (leaves, twigs and so on) regularly to avoid these blocking the gutters and allowing water to pool and stand on the roof.
If there are trees in the close vicinity, keep them cut back to reduce the amount of foliage that falls on your flat roof. And check internally for signs of moisture, dampness or water damage on a regular basis. Spotting problems early means resolving them will be cheaper in the long run.
Building a flat roof can be done in three ways. The simplest and most cost-effective choice for levelled roofing London-wide is to construct a warm roof where a roofing membrane is placed over the insulation that keeps the timber structure warm. Another option is to create a cold roof where insulation is positioned between the rafters under the ply roof covering. This is commonly applied to flat-roofed extensions.
The third method is the hybrid roof that contains diverse elements. Their designs require a gap of ventilation above a warm roof to prevent excess moisture within the roof structure.
If you’re looking for flat roofing local contractors, don’t just select the first firm you come across. Find a roofing company that’s been in business for a while and can demonstrate a good track record in installing, repairing, and replacing flat roofs specifically. Ask for recommendations from your own network or from a local trade association. If you need refurbishment work done to 50% or more of your roof, you’ll need a roofing contractor who can self-certify their work under the Competent Person Scheme. Otherwise, the Building Control department at your local authority will need to approve the job before it begins.
Ask whether they are covered by liability insurance and how long they’ll guarantee the work they will carry out. And never just opt for the cheapest quote unless you’re quite sure they’re the best company for the job. You can’t afford to compromise on your roof as the structural integrity of your property depends on it.
Ensuring your flat roof will comply with building regulations before installation can save property owners time, money and stress. First, the roof must have a slope of around 1:80, with water draining away to one or two roof edges. Waterproofing must be extended up to the adjacent walls with at least 150 mm from the surface of the roof.
Contractors must install ventilation in cold roofs. For warm roofs, the deck must be bonded with a VCL. The roof should have the capacity to withstand strong winds and be sturdy enough to take an individual’s weight. Finally, check whether planning permission is needed. Typically, this is only required if you live in a conservation area or a listed building, or are making significant changes to an existing roof.
If you’re looking for top roofing solutions at competitive rates, check out our range of roofing services at Environ Roofing Company London. To get started, call one of our representatives today!
