A Quick Roofing Checklist for Homeowners
Right, let’s talk about something most of us don’t think about until there’s a problem – your roof. With autumn well underway and winter just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to give your roof a bit of attention before the weather really turns nasty.
We’ve been fixing roofs around Bromley and South London for over 15 years, and trust me, we see the same issues crop up every winter. The good news? Most of them could’ve been spotted and sorted before the first proper storm hit.
Why Bother Checking Now?
Look, we get it. Climbing up a ladder to inspect your roof isn’t exactly a thrilling Saturday afternoon. But here’s the thing – a small issue in October can become a massive headache (and expense) by January. Water damage doesn’t mess about, and neither does a proper British winter.
What to Look Out For
Missing or Damaged Tiles Have a look from ground level first (no need to go full Spider-Man just yet). Can you spot any tiles that look a bit wonky, cracked, or missing altogether? Even one dodgy tile can let water in, and once that starts, you’re in for trouble.
Blocked Gutters Autumn leaves might look lovely on the trees, but they’re an absolute nightmare in your gutters. When gutters get blocked, water backs up and can seep under your roof tiles or damage your fascias. A quick clear-out now could save you hundreds later.
Flashing Around Chimneys The lead flashing around your chimney takes a proper battering from the weather. Check for any gaps or lifting – these are prime spots for leaks to start.
Moss and Algae A bit of moss might not seem like a big deal, but it holds moisture against your roof tiles, which can cause them to deteriorate faster. Plus, it can work its way under tiles and cause lifting.
DIY or Call in the Experts?
Clearing your gutters? Absolutely, crack on if you’re comfortable on a ladder. But anything involving actually getting on the roof or dealing with repairs? That’s where you want to call in someone who knows what they’re doing.
Roofing isn’t just about slapping a few tiles back on. There’s proper technique involved, safety considerations, and knowing what materials to use where. We’ve lost count of the number of “quick DIY fixes” we’ve had to properly repair because they’ve made things worse.
The Cost Question
We know what you’re thinking – “This is going to cost a fortune, isn’t it?” Here’s the honest truth: a small repair now will always cost less than emergency work in the middle of winter when your living room ceiling is doing an impression of a water feature.
We always offer free quotes, and we’ll be straight with you about what needs doing urgently and what can wait. No point in unnecessary work, is there?
When to Act Fast
Some things genuinely can’t wait:
- You’ve spotted a leak inside
- Tiles are sliding off
- You can see daylight through your roof space
- There’s visible sagging anywhere
If any of these apply, get someone out ASAP. Water damage escalates quickly, and structural issues even more so.
The Bottom Line
Your roof works hard all year round, but winter really tests it. A bit of preventative maintenance now means you can enjoy your cosy home without worrying about what the weather’s doing up there.
And look, even if everything seems fine, it’s worth having a professional take a quick look every few years. We spot things that most people would never notice, and catching problems early is always cheaper than waiting for them to become obvious.
Stay warm, stay dry, and if you’re at all worried about your roof, give us a shout. We’re always happy to have a chat and offer some free advice – no pressure, no hard sell, just honest guidance from people who’ve been doing this for years.
Need a roof inspection or repair in Bromley or South London? Get in touch with Consolidated Roofing for a free, no-obligation quote. We’re local, reliable, and we genuinely care about keeping your home weatherproof.