Roofing Guide for Homeowners

A roofing inspection should seek to establish the cause of the defect, rather than simply treating its visible symptoms.

Typical areas requiring investigation include slipped or damaged slates and tiles, failed flashings, valleys, ridges, verges, chimney junctions, roof penetrations, defective underlay and rainwater disposal.

Localised damage to an otherwise serviceable roof can often be repaired effectively. Replacement becomes more appropriate where defects are widespread, components have reached the end of their serviceable life, or previous repairs have failed to address an underlying problem.

There is no single percentage or age at which every roof should automatically be replaced. The decision should be based upon its condition, construction and likely remaining service life.

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Moisture management is an important part of roof design. Poor ventilation, discontinuous insulation, uncontrolled air leakage or an inappropriate roof build-up can contribute to condensation within the roof space or construction.

Roof work should therefore consider the complete build-up rather than simply replacing the external covering. Ventilation and condensation risk should be assessed with reference to BS 5250 and the particular construction of the property.

Flat roofs can be constructed using a range of systems including high-performance bituminous membranes, EPDM, GRP, single-ply and liquid-applied systems.

The suitability of each system depends upon the substrate, roof geometry, falls, outlets, upstands, penetrations and required finish. Correct detailing at edges and junctions is often as important as the waterproofing membrane itself.

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Lead remains one of the most effective materials for weathering complex roof junctions when it is correctly specified and installed.

Typical details include stepped and cover flashings, soakers, aprons, back gutters, valleys and chimney trays. Correct lead code, sizing, laps, fixings and allowance for thermal movement are fundamental to long-term performance.

Chimney work may also involve repointing, rebuilding, flaunching, resetting chimney pots and providing suitable ventilation to redundant flues.

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Safe access is an important part of professional roofing work. The appropriate solution will depend upon the height, roof configuration, duration of the work and nature of the task.

Scaffolding also provides a stable working platform, assists with material handling and allows many roofing details to be completed more safely and accurately than would be possible from ladders alone.

The programme should also make reasonable allowance for weather, material availability and unforeseen defects that may only become visible once the existing roof covering is opened up.

Look for evidence that the contractor regularly undertakes the type of work required on your property.

A contractor experienced in traditional slate and leadwork, for example, may be more appropriate for an older York property than a business primarily specialising in modern flat roofing.

Ask to see examples of comparable completed projects where appropriate.

A professional roofing contractor should hold appropriate insurance for the work it undertakes. This will commonly include public liability insurance and, where applicable, employers’ liability insurance.

Do not be afraid to request evidence of current cover before significant work begins.

A quotation should clearly describe the proposed work, principal materials, access arrangements and price.

For larger projects it should also explain relevant exclusions and how unforeseen work will be dealt with if hidden defects are discovered once the roof is opened.

The lowest quotation is not necessarily the best value. Compare the scope, specification, materials, access, workmanship and guarantees being offered.

Roofing is work at height and should be planned accordingly. Depending upon the nature and duration of the work, suitable access might involve scaffolding, towers, mobile platforms or other appropriate equipment.

Be cautious where substantial roof work is proposed without any credible provision for safe access.

Building Regulations can apply when a substantial proportion of an existing roof is renovated or replaced, particularly where the work constitutes the renovation of a thermal element.

This can introduce requirements relating to thermal performance as well as structural, fire and ventilation considerations.

The contractor should identify where Building Control involvement or another recognised compliance route is required and explain how this will be dealt with before the relevant work proceeds.

Ask how the proposed specification deals with the details that determine long-term roof performance.

For tiled and slated roofs this may include requirements associated with BS 5534. Lead sheet work should take account of BS 6915, while roof ventilation and moisture management should be considered with reference to BS 5250.

Standards do not replace good workmanship, but they provide an important technical framework for the specification and installation.

A good contractor should be able to explain the proposed work in straightforward language and keep you informed if the scope changes.

Photographs are particularly useful for roofing because much of the completed work cannot easily be inspected by the homeowner.

At Roof York we aim to document relevant stages of our work so clients can understand what has been found and what has been completed.

Payment arrangements should be agreed before work begins and clearly recorded in the quotation or contract.

At Roof York, projects below £10,000 do not normally require an upfront payment. Our invoices clearly identify the contracted work, VAT where applicable and the total amount payable, with our standard payment terms stated on the quotation and invoice.

Ask what workmanship guarantee applies to the particular work and whether separate manufacturer warranties apply to any proprietary roofing system or product.

Guarantees should be provided in writing and their scope should be understood. The appropriate guarantee will depend upon whether the work is a local repair, substantial renewal or complete roofing system.