How to check your roof for problems and ensure your home is protected against water damage.

Aaron Baldry from JDB Roofing SW Ltd in Honiton shares four of the most common roofing problems and what you can do to fix them:

1. Loose, damaged, or missing tiles

Harsh weather and general wear and tear can often cause roof tiles to loosen or fall off. This leaves your home susceptible to water damage.

Check your timbers, floorboards, insulation, and ceiling for damp patches. Cracks of light pouring through into the loft can also show where a tile is missing.

Midweek Herald: Water leaks could be a sign that your roof tiles are loose or damaged.Water leaks could be a sign that your roof tiles are loose or damaged. (Image: Archant)

If you notice a problem, call us. It’s best to do this sooner rather than later to prevent further damage and help you save money. We can fit the tiles back into place or replace them with new ones to ensure your roof is secure.

2. Poor ventilation

Most roofs are made using built-up bitumen felt, which doesn’t offer much breathing space. This means every time you have the heating on when that heat rises, it’s not able to escape. This creates condensation that drops back onto the ceiling, damaging your roof’s insulation and plasterboard.

We can install ventilation tiles on the roof to help reduce condensation or fit breathable felt to the front and back of your property. Ridge ventilation will increase airflow, helping your loft space to remain dry.

Our expert advisors can help you find the best solution to suit your budget and property. We’ll check your home for existing damage and can fit your new ventilation in one morning or afternoon.

3. Damaged chimneys

Midweek Herald: Check your roof, timbers, floorboards, insulation, and ceiling for damp patches, as this could be a sign your roof needs repairing.Check your roof, timbers, floorboards, insulation, and ceiling for damp patches, as this could be a sign your roof needs repairing. (Image: Archant)

Issues with the lead, cement, or brickwork can cause chimney leaks and result in damp patches forming throughout the walls and floors of your home. We can help you find the source of the leak, and repoint your chimney’s brickwork, or mend its flaunting to repair and harden the mortar. We’ll spray water sealant to waterproof your chimney and help prevent future leaks.

4. Cracked ridges, verge lines, and valleys

Over time, cracks can form in your roof’s structure which can lead to water ingress, but with some simple repairs, we can keep your roof in top condition.

We can apply new cement to your verge lines to seal your roof tiles solidly in place. By installing new ridges and valleys, we can ensure your roof can drain water efficiently and maintain its structural integrity.

Booking an annual roof survey for roofs over 15 years old, can help prevent problems, save you money and offer peace of mind. We’ll provide a detailed report on the health of your roof, can recommend any repairs that need to be done, and provide an instant quote, to make caring for your roof simple and stress-free.

How long will my roof take to repair?

Midweek Herald: 'We can install new ridges and valleys to can ensure water can drain from your roof properly, preventing leaks and water ingress.''We can install new ridges and valleys to can ensure water can drain from your roof properly, preventing leaks and water ingress.' (Image: Archant)

We aim to respond to all queries within 48 hours, sooner if it’s an emergency. Most repairs are finished within three hours, depending on the severity of the problem. We’ll organise our work schedule to fit around you, ensuring minimal disruption to your family’s routine.

Can you visit my home during Covid-19?

We remain fully operational and can visit your home to perform any roof repairs. We’re following all government guidance, minimising the number of times we enter your home, maintaining social distancing, and are equipped with full PPE, to help keep you and our staff safe.

As members of the CoCR (Confederation of Roofing Contractors) and part of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), you’re fully guaranteed for all work we carry out in your home. We can offer expert, friendly and reliable advice to help resolve your roofing problems.

We pride ourselves on offering high-quality roof repairs that suit your budget and will help keep your roof in great shape for many years to come.

Visit jdbroofingsw.co.uk to book an appointment or arrange a free quote for your roof repair.

Call 07394 556989 or 01404 597427 to chat with a member of the team, or email info@jdbroofingsw.co.uk.