Prevention is the best cure!
As we start to near the end of those dark winter months, our customers often ask for advice on how to minimise the chances of roof damage and leaks for the coming (hopefully brighter) spring months.
With that in mind, we've put together our top tips to help prepare your roof for the worst that the weather can offer.
So what can I do to prepare my roof for the spring?
- Inspect your roof
- Clean your gutters
- Check for leaks
- Trim trees and bushes
- Check for damaged flashing
- Check for proper ventilation
- Check for pests
- Check for moss, mold and algae growth
- Check for proper insulation
We've also include a few questions you should ask when looking for a roofing company in case you need a professional.
1. Inspect your roof from the inside & out
From the inside, you should look for any signs of damp or water marks. Fromt he outside you should be looking for damage such as missing or cracked tiles, damage to any felt or lead, Any signs of water collection/pooling etc. It's very important that any issues are identified and repaired promptly before water can get in.
To inspect your roof safely, you should follow these steps:
- Inspect the roof from the ground or windows where possible, and avoid walking on the roof as much as possible.
- Make sure you have the proper equipment, such as a sturdy ladder and a torch.
- Set up the ladder on a level surface and make sure it is securely positioned before climbing.
- Always keep three points of contact on the ladder while ascending and descending.
- Wear slip-resistant shoes and be cautious of any slippery surfaces.
- If you need to walk on the roof, use a harness and make sure someone is holding the ladder.
- Be aware of any potential hazards, such as loose shingles, tiles, cables, weak-points etc.
- If you are unsure about your ability to inspect the roof safely, consider calling-in the professionals.
2. Clean your gutters to ensure proper drainage
Gutters are one of the most common causes of roof leaks we come across. If the water cannot drain properly it will back-up the pipes and pool on your roof.
The solution is simple: Clear any debris such as leaves, branches and moss that may have collected on your roof and in your gutters to ensure proper drainage.
3. Check for leaks
Look for any signs of leaks, such as water stains on the ceiling or walls, and have them repaired as soon as possible.
To check for leaks in your roof, you can follow these steps:
- Inspect the interior of your loft for water stains, mold, or mildew. This can indicate a current or a past leak.
- Look for any signs of water damage or staining on the walls or ceilings of the interior of your home.
- Look for any missing or damaged shingles, tiles felt or slates on the exterior of the roof.
- Check the flashing around chimneys, vents, walls and skylights to ensure they are properly sealed.
- Check the gutters and downpipes for any blockages or overflowing water.
- Inspect the roof during a heavy rain and look for any water entering your home.
- Hire a professional roof inspector to check for leaks and other potential issues.
If you have found any signs of a leak, it is important to have it repaired by a professional roofer as soon as possible to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
4. Trim trees and bushes
Trimming any trees or bushes that touch, overhang or are near your roof is critical - especially on flat roofs. Rogue branches can cause damage to your roof tiles, slates or felt - or even worse, block the drainage from your roof, resulting in water pooling and ultimately water ingress.
5. Check for damaged flashing
Flashing is a sheet metal (usually lead) or other material that is used to prevent water from entering a building where the roof meets a wall or structure. Make sure that all flashing is securely in place and not damaged or out of shape.
6. Check for proper ventilation
Make sure that your roof has proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Prolonged exposure to damp conditions can lead to mold and eventually the rotting of your roof structure.
7. Check for pests
Check for wildlife and pests - such as rodents or birds that may have taken up residence in your loft or on your roof... You'll be surprised how much damage they can cause!
8. Check for moss, vines and algae growth
Moss and algae growth can cause damage to your roof, so make sure to remove them as soon as possible.
To prevent moss and vine growth on your roof, you can try the following methods:
- Keep your roof clean: Regularly remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from your roof, as this can provide a breeding ground for moss and other growths.
- Trim overhanging trees. This will reduce the amount of shade and moisture that can promote moss growth.
- Apply zinc or copper strips along the peak of your roof, and as rainwater runs over them, it will release small amounts of zinc or copper ions that can inhibit moss growth.
- Use a specially formulated treatment that can help to prevent moss and algae growth on your roof. These products are usually applied with a sprayer or roller.
- Regularly inspect your roof and address any growth as soon as you notice it.
- If the moss growth is already established, consider hiring a professional roof cleaner who can safely remove the growth and prevent it from returning.
9. Check for proper insulation
Make sure that your attic is properly insulated to prevent heat loss and damage to your roof.
10. How to find a Professional, Reliable Local Roofing Company
We don’t mean having your local roofing contractor on speed dial but introducing yourself and asking him to put you on his client list can save time when there is an emergency with your roof. Book your roofer for a yearly maintenance plan – after all, he has the equipment and the skills, is highly trained and has the Health and Safety certificates to prove it. Why chance your own safety when your new best mate will be happy to do it for you?
Questions you should ask when looking for a professional roofing company.
- How long have they been trading?
This will give you an idea of the experience they have. Morgan Asphalte have been trading since 1969!
- Are they accredited within the roofing industry?
Not only do Morgan Asphalte have a reputation for being one of London's best roofing companies, they have the credentials to go with it!
- Do they have a team of well trained and qualified roofers?
This is making sure the team is up to date with all the knowledge on the latest roofing technologies - like Morgan Asphalte's professional team of roofers.
- How do they take payment?
Whilst you might expect to pay a deposit, a reputable and quality roofing company will not ask for full payment upfront!
- Does the work come with a guarantee?
A good roof repair or installation should stand the test of time. That's why all Morgan Asphalte work comes with a 10 or 20 year guarantee.
So there you have it, Our advice is simple... Identify and fix any potential roof problems before they happen.
Keep your roof in tip-top condition by carrying-out a few simple tasks each year and your wallet will thank you!
Of course, as a quality London roofing company, Morgan Asphalte would be delighted to offer any of our roofing services to keep up with the maintenance of your roof.
If you need some advice, or to arrange a free, no obligation site visit please get in touch with our expert team today.