Roofing
A local repair can be good value when the surrounding roof remains sound and the detail can be restored properly.
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Roof repairs may involve slipped or broken tiles, damaged slates, local flashing, ridge or verge defects and identifiable faults around roof junctions. The repair should consider the material, pitch, exposure, fixings and the route taken by water.
What a useful inspection considers
The visible defect is only one part of the roof. Depending on the problem, inspection may consider:
- the covering above and to each side;
- underlay and battens where visible;
- flashings and abutments;
- ridges, hips, verges and valleys;
- outlets and gutters below;
- chimney or wall junctions;
- the internal mark and weather history.
Water appearing inside can be displaced from the external entry point.
Local repair or wider work
A local repair is more realistic when matching materials can be fitted correctly and the surrounding roof is stable. Wider work may be needed if coverings are brittle, several areas have failed, the supporting structure is unsound or previous patches prevent correct detailing.
Leadwork and junctions
Flashing repairs need correct laps, chases, fixings and detailing for the location. Mastic smeared over failed lead or masonry is not a substitute for restoring the junction.
Safe access and weather
Roof work must be planned to prevent falls and falling materials. The access method depends on the roof and task. High winds, rain, frost or a wet surface may make repair unsafe or technically unsuitable.
Internal damage
Stained plaster, insulation and decoration should be assessed after the entry point is repaired. Drying may take time, and a mark that remains visible is not proof that the roof is still leaking.
Questions about roof repairs
Can one tile be replaced?
Often, if a suitable replacement can be fitted without damaging surrounding coverings and the underlying area is sound.
Does every leak need a new roof?
No. The condition and extent decide. Equally, repeated patching is poor value if the roof has widespread failure.
Can you quote from a ground-level photograph?
A photograph may show the problem, but access, fixings and hidden condition can still require inspection.
Can the repair be guaranteed to stop every internal mark?
A repair can address the identified defect, but several water sources can produce similar marks. The scope and evidence should be explained clearly.
Show us the roof slope and the mark
Send a wider external view, close detail if safely available and photographs of any internal staining.