Autumn is an ideal time to give your roof some attention. After the wetter and windier conditions of autumn arrive, small defects can quickly become more noticeable, or even develop into costly problems over winter.
Homeowners don’t need to climb onto the roof themselves; instead, there are several warning signs that can be safely checked from ground level or inside the property to make sure your roof is in tip-top condition.
1. Missing, slipped or damaged roof tiles
Strong winds and changing weather conditions can cause roof tiles to become cracked, slipped or completely dislodged. Even a relatively small area of damage can leave the roof more vulnerable to rainwater entering into the structure.
From ground level, look for obvious gaps or tiles that appear uneven compared with the surrounding roof. You may also notice broken tiles on the ground after periods of particularly windy weather. If you spot anything unusual, it is best to have the roof assessed by a suitably qualified professional rather than attempting to access it yourself.
2. Damaged or deteriorating flashing
Flashing is used around areas such as chimneys, roof junctions, valleys and extensions to help prevent water from getting into the building. Over time, flashing can become cracked, loose, corroded or detached, particularly where it is exposed to the elements.
Problems with flashing aren’t always immediately obvious from ground level. However, signs such as damp patches around chimney breasts or ceilings, staining near roof junctions, or evidence of previous repairs may indicate that further investigation is needed.
3. Blocked valleys, gutters and roof drainage
Autumn leaves and other debris can quickly collect in gutters, valleys, and around drainage points. When these areas become blocked, rainwater may not be able to drain away as intended, increasing the risk of overflowing water and damp affecting the roof or external walls.
It’s worth checking gutters for visible blockages, excessive vegetation or areas where water appears to be overflowing. Downpipes should also be checked for obvious signs of blockage. Keeping drainage systems clear can help reduce the risk of water-related problems as we move into the wetter winter months.
4. Moss and excessive organic growth
Moss is common on many roofs, particularly those that receive limited sunlight or are surrounded by trees. A small amount of moss isn’t necessarily an indication that a roof is defective, but excessive growth can become problematic if it obstructs drainage or retains moisture against roofing materials.
Large areas of moss can also make it more difficult to assess the condition of the tiles beneath. Rather than removing it yourself from the roof, particularly on a steep or fragile roof, consider getting professional advice if there appears to be significant growth or other signs of deterioration.
5. Signs of water ingress inside the home
Some roof problems become more noticeable from inside the property than from outside. After periods of heavy rain, look around ceilings, upper-floor rooms and areas close to chimneys or roof junctions for signs such as brown or discoloured patches, peeling paint, dampness, or mould.
A musty smell can also sometimes indicate a moisture problem. It’s important to remember that the location of an internal stain does not necessarily correspond with the exact location of the defect in the roof. Water can travel through roof spaces before becoming visible inside the property, so identifying the underlying cause may require further investigation.
6. Know when to call a professional
While homeowners can carry out basic visual checks, some roof defects aren’t easy to identify without professional knowledge or safe access to the roof and roof spaces. Persistent leaks, recurring damp, visible damage or concerns about the overall condition of the roof should be investigated.
A professional inspection can help establish the condition of the roof and identify defects that may not be immediately apparent. This can be particularly useful when buying or selling a property, or when you are concerned that an existing issue could become more serious during the winter.
A few simple checks in autumn can help homeowners identify potential problems before winter weather makes them worse. Where there are concerns about the condition of a roof or signs of water ingress, a professional inspection can help establish the cause and the appropriate next steps.
If you’re in the process of buying a house and have any concerns about the roof, or any other areas, of the property you’re purchasing, then book a home survey.