Will My Flat Roof Last Through Winter?

Save money with our handy guide to pre-winter flat roof checks:

Flat roofs (any roof with less than a 15 degree pitch) are known for being hard-wearing and reliable - the main reason people choose them - but this doesn't mean they're immune to the worst that winter can throw at them. High winds, driving rain, frost, ice and heavy snow all take their toll and often it's only during these harsher conditions that problems become obvious. Because of this, it's usually a pretty busy time for roofers. 

But emergency roof repairs often cost customers a lot more, partly because a leaking roof can lead to water damage of possessions, and partly because the repairs themselves can be compromised by difficult weather conditions and shorter working days, meaning the roofers have to stay for longer... Plus who wants to think about their roof at Christmas?

So we thought a guide to what to look for before winter comes in could save you a lot of stress and money!

1. Signs of water/damp internally: Drips, wet patches, discolouration, mould and staining all show water is getting in. If this is the case, don't delay - the problem will only get worse as the moisture 'wicks' and spreads, causing rot, structural softening and more cracks (especially during icy spells).

2. If access is good and safe, get up on the roof for a visual inspection. You're looking for dips, buckling, uneven areas, cracks, puddles where water has gathered rather than draining off, algae & moss (which can indicate areas of structural dampness where water will eventually penetrate). As you walk (carefully) around, listen for cracks or creaking, and watch for sudden dipping underfoot, especially if you already suspect the roof is weakened. Also look closely at any flashings around chimneys, outlet pipes and skylights - these are classic areas for water ingress.

3. If all seems good, ensure all your drains are clear. This should be done regularly anyway to allow water to drain away correctly. If it can't escape down the drains, it either has to gather, causing sitting water, or find another way down (i.e. through small cracks, which it will expand).

4. Also ensure no leaf debris etc is left up there over winter. This may seem insignificant but leaves rot down, causing mould and all the problems that brings. They may also freeze to the roof, meaning that if you do need repairs it becomes extremely difficult to clear the roof first.

5. Most good roofers (including us) offer free on-site assessments without obligation, so if you're unsure or suspect something may be wrong, call. Make sure you check credentials and look for evidence of previous good work (we use a Portfolio section - just hold your cursor over 'Flat Roofs & Warm Roofs' on the top navigation bar).

To find out more about what we do and how we can help with your roof, call us on 07855 535581 or take a look around the website>