It’s easy to forget about your roof. If it’s doing its job well, you’re warm and dry and never really have to give it a second thought. However, without regular maintenance, your roof will suffer and small problems that could have been easily fixed become large issues of time that can become expensive to repair.
Here at Manchester Roofers, we’re strong advocates of roof maintenance and are here to help you keep your roof in tip-top condition so that hopefully, you never have to pay out for a sudden avoidable cost. Here are our top tips for roof care.
Top Tips at a Glance
No time to read the details? Here’s the important info:
- Inspect your roof regularly, at least twice a year.
- Keep guttering clear.
- Use a professional roofer for your roof inspection and repair needs.
1. Make Sure You Perform Routine Inspections
The most important part of roofing maintenance is that you undertake regular checks of the entire roof. It is best to do this at least twice a year, in the spring and again in the autumn. With this can be done yourself, it is advisable to call an expert.
At Manchester Roofers, we’re here to do a thorough roof inspection for you. Our professional roofers have all the experience needed to spot potential problems before they become costly.
If you’d prefer to undertake your roof inspection yourself, it’s important that you put your safety first and take all appropriate care, especially with ladders – poor ladder safety is a common cause of accidents. Plus, of course, you need to know what to look for. Check for the following:
- Missing or damaged shingles or tiles.
- Cracks or holes in the flashing, especially around chimneys, skylights, or vents.
- Clogged or broken guttering and downpipes – water should flow freely off the roof and not pool.
- Roof structure sagging or movement – take a step back and see if your roof has any structural issues.
- Signs of leaking in the loft space – part of your roof care inspection should include the inside.
Pay particular attention to areas such as the roof valleys, where leaks can more easily occur, and check for moss and mould which can indicate potential leaks or moisture build-up. If you do notice any issues, it’s essential to get them seen and repaired as soon as possible.
2. Clean Your Gutters
A clogged gutter can cause water to pool and overflow, seeping into the roof and damaging the structure of the building. It’s easy to ensure this never happens with regular gutter cleaning – one of the most basic parts of home roof care.
Gutters should be completely free of debris. Remove any leaves and twigs, and move along any small creatures who may have decided to make your guttering their home! Make sure that the downspouts are also clear so that the water can flow freely to the drainage.
ℹ️ If your home is near trees, then you may have to clean your gutters often during the autumn when the fall of leaves is particularly strong. Don’t leave it too late as winter’s potential freeze combined with a blocked gutter can cause havoc.
3. Keep Any Overhanging Branches Cut Back and Tidy
Overhanging branches can break off and fall, causing significant damage to your roof. A single storm or very high wind can mean a sudden impact on your roof that breaks tiles and causes leaks.
Avoiding anything dramatic by simply keeping trees neatly pruned back is a key part of roofing maintenance.
4. Fix Leaks Immediately
If you ever discover a leak from your roof, it is imperative that you have it repaired without any delay. Even a small leak can cause significant damage to your roof structure as well as any furnishings or belongings in the area. Water seepage leads to mould and slow-but-steady structural decay.
Check your loft space and ceilings for damp spots, stains and other signs of moisture, try to determine the cause and repair. It is always best to call an expert roofer if you have the slightest doubt or if the repair is significant.
5. Keep Your Roof Clear
Your gutters are undoubtedly a shining example of cleanliness with tip #2 already taken care of, but don’t forget the rest of the roof. While it is rarely necessary to undertake a full roof clean as often as keeping the guttering maintained, debris on the roof can lead to damage and unseen problems.
Regular sweeping the roof will keep your roof in good condition. It’s as easy as using a broom to gently clear away any loose leaves, twigs, or old Coke cans from your roof. If moss is growing, now is a good time to just brush that away.
As with all roof maintenance, be careful up that ladder!
6. Make Sure Your Loft Space is Ventilated
Proper ventilation is essential in maintaining a healthy roof. If your loft space has been converted to rooms, then this should be as easy as opening a window regularly, but if not, consider installing ventilation vents and even fans to improve air circulation in the area.
Insulation is also key here, as making sure you have the right roof and loft insulation will help in many ways, including keeping your roof in top condition. If the loft space isn’t properly ventilated, it can become damp and mouldy through condensation, leading in the longer term to damaged woodwork and other structural issues.
7. Hire a Roofer
Roof maintenance is best done by a reputable roofing company. While it’s possible to undertake many roof care tasks yourself, every time you interact with your roof there is potential for an accident that can actually cause more damage or, worse, harm you or others.
Professional roofers will be able to spot potential problems long before they become expensive issues and will ensure that your roof is kept in optimal condition.
Roof Maintenance FAQs
What Time of Year is Best for Roof Maintenance?
A roof in the UK has to withstand a lot of different weather conditions over its life, and it’s good to check after each. A roof inspection in early spring is good to see if any leaks or damage has happened after the winter, while regular gutter clearances throughout the autumn help keep leaves at bay.
Late spring and early summer provide good weather for performing repairs. Make sure to also keep a good eye on the inside loft area during heavy rain and winter weather to check for leaks.
What Should I Do to Maintain My Roof?
The best piece of advice is simply to be aware of your roof. Regular roof inspections are essential, as well as undertaking repairs without delay.
How Much Does a Professional Roof Inspection Cost?
There are a lot of factors involved in calculating roof inspections and repairs. For a no-obligation quote for your roof, why not give us a call at Manchester Roofers?
Why Should I Use a Professional for My House Roof Repair?
Roofs are dangerous places. Professionals are trained in health and safety and will make sure that every guideline is followed. If you try DIY roof repairs, you need to take particular care to your safety, as a fall can be devastating.
It is also very easy to make simple mistakes when on a roof and do more damage than you were there to repair. Professional roofers will be safe, efficient, and be able to spot problems early. Not only that, but we’re insured should anything unexpected occur.
How Long Will My Roof Last?
A lot depends on the type of roof and the materials involved, but if properly maintained, most roofs will last at least 30 years. Of course, if your roof isn’t cared for, damage could lower that lifespan considerably.
Manchester Roofers - Here For Your Roof Cleaning and Repair
At Manchester Roofers, we have a team of dedicated roofers with the experience needed to take the very best care of your roof, as well as repair any damage to an exceptionally high standard.
We offer a range of services relevant to roof maintenance, from scheduling regular inspections and gutter cleaning, through to a complete roof overhaul for those roofs that have suffered without regular care for years.
Why not contact us today for a friendly chat and no-obligation estimate?
