Whether you are responsible for a residential or commercial property in Huddersfield, checking the condition of its roof is an important maintenance task. Spotting and rectifying issues before they become serious can save you the costs and disruption associated with more extensive repairs. However, checking your roof comes with the risks of working at height.
In this article, we’ll discuss what to look for when assessing a roof’s condition and at how to ensure checks are carried out safely.
Why should you check your roof?
As well as protecting people and belongings, roofs are an important structural component of a property, and are exposed to the elements all year round. So, it is vital they are well-maintained. Roof checks and full roof inspections are essential to flag any damage or weaknesses, so issues can be addressed early, potentially cutting repair costs and avoiding hassle.
An expertly installed roof should last around 25 years. However, its longevity can be impacted by how well it is maintained. Carrying out regular checks does not mean your roof will last forever but you are helping to make sure it functions at its best for the maximum amount of time. Checks can also determine if and when your roof is reaching the end of its lifespan and you need to consider having it replaced.
In addition to general wear and tear, each season brings specific challenges when it comes to roofs, so many property owners like to have their roof checked more than once during the year. The best times of year to schedule a check are in spring to assess your roof’s condition after winter and also ahead of the winter months to make sure it enters the harshest weather season in its best shape.
Before discussing the various elements of checking a roof’s condition, it is worth taking a look at the risks involved in undertaking the work.
Work at height: risks and requirements
The phrase “work at height” is an official health and safety term. While there are legal considerations for employers and contractors, the main thing to emphasise is that working at height can be extremely dangerous. Not only does this type of work come with the risk of physical injury (or worse), an untrained person may inadvertently cause further damage to the roof, especially one in a fragile condition.
So, when it comes to accessing your sloped or flat roof to carry out checks, we always recommend bringing in accredited professionals who have been trained to work at height.
At DPR Roofing, we will assess your property and determine the best way to gain safe access, using appropriate equipment to ensure the safety of those working on the roof, anyone using the building, and any passers-by below.
What does checking a roof involve?
Checking a roof involves looking at its overall condition to determine any damage, wear or tear, or hazards which might impair its integrity or lead to more serious problems. A roof comprises external and internal elements, so checks will involve examining both.
External roof checks
The external parts of the roof bear the brunt of the Huddersfield weather, from strong wind and heavy rain to autumn leaves accumulating, and winter’s snow and ice. This is why we recommend you have a roof check or inspection at least once a year. Things a roof check should cover include:
- Missing or damaged tiles: A roof check will highlight if any tiles are missing or cracked and should be repaired or replaced.
- Lichen, moss or algae: A build-up of any or all of these can lead to tile damage and could indicate your roof is due for a cleaning.
- Dents, sagging or cracks: Checks can highlight more severe problems which need to be fixed, such as sagging on a flat roof.
- Issues with flashings: If these metal sealants slip or sustain damage, it can leave gaps for water to get inside the property.
The roof structure also incorporates the guttering. It is important this is kept in good shape so it can effectively drain away rainwater, helping to prevent water damage. Checking and clearing gutters might seem like a simple job which can be done without professional help. However, given the risks of working at height, we still recommend engaging a professional firm which adheres to health and safety requirements.
Internal roof checks
Some damage can be determined by looking at the roof from within the property, such as from a loft or attic space, so is this another important element of checking its overall condition.
If you are able to safely access this area of your residential or commercial property, things to keep an eye out for are signs of damp in the timbers or on the flooring, or water damage to anything stored in the space. All of these things could indicate a leaky roof.
You might even notice a musty smell or dark patches on the inside of the roof. Light shining through patches of the roof could suggest damage to the tiling or missing tiles. You should also check the air vents are clear of obstruction.
Before you access your loft or attic, it is important to ensure the steps or ladder are secure and in good condition. Wear suitable footwear and consider having someone with you. Also be aware that accessing the space will likely bring you into contact with the roof insulation. Older properties might have been insulated with unsafe material, prolonged exposure to which might potentially be hazardous.
Again, it is always better to be safe than sorry, so we advise bringing in professionals to safely undertake any internal or external checks to assess the condition of your roof.
Don’t take risks – call in the experts
At DPR Roofing, we offer expert roof inspections, repairs and replacements for residential and commercial properties across Huddersfield. Whatever your roofing needs, we are here to get the work done safely and to a high standard. Contact us today on 01484 866 772 to find out more about our services.