Category Archives: Roofing Materials

Historic homes: Materials For Your Roof Restoration

Preserving your home’s legacy whilst also adding strength to its historic structure can be a difficult and confusing task. When it comes to your roof, this often requires careful consideration of the different roof restoration materials available. Finding the right roofing material that fits with both your aesthetic aspirations, building regulations and your budget whilst also restoring your home to its original character is not the easiest of tasks. What’s more, many of the original materials are simply not in production any more and so finding a perfect match can feel near impossible.

alt="Slate roof bungalow restoration with valleys"A general rule of thumb is to contact an experienced architect and experienced roofing team before making any major decisions in order to determine which materials best suit your circumstances. Whilst an architect is able to provide insights into the historical styles that will suit this major design feature, we’re on hand to provide you with some of the most common options and roof restoration materials available that offer an ideal historical look and incorporate modern construction techniques.

 

Slate

"manor house restoration"One of the most natural roofing materials available, along with wood, is slate.  You’ll find a slate roof on many historic buildings in the UK. Welsh slate in particular is the number one choice when it comes to this type of roof covering. However, there are some great alternatives if you’realt="bungalow slate roof restoration" on a lower budget such as natural Spanish slate or the man made cement fibre slates which have a slate ‘grain’ added for aesthetic effect.   

As one of the smartest and most aesthetically pleasing materials out there, slate roofs require minimal maintenance and their long-lasting durability means that your roof could survive a lifetime.

Clay Tiling

Clay was one of the earliest roofing materials and many old buildings in the UK will have man made plain clay tiles as a covering. The tiles were made using a clay oven and each tile was made individually, you’ll even sometimes see fingerprints on the ‘nibs’ (which hook over the batten) from the young kids who would have to spend their days pushing their thumbs throughalt="finished clay tiling" the tops of the tiles to create the hook effect of a ‘nib’. alt="tiled ridge roof restoration"

Although you can still source second hand man made plain clay tiles from reclamation yards and old farm sales, there is a newer alternative with many of the same appeals. The modern day clay tiles aren’t made in such a draconian manor and are instead factory made by machines, meaning that you can still get the great material but at a fraction of the cost. This makes them an ideal material to mimic the structure and appeal of an older roof, especially if you’re looking to restore your old roof for less. 

Traditional clay tiles are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, meaning that finding a close or even perfect match for your home can be relatively simple, however if you need something slightly more unique, there are plenty of specialist tile manufacturers that will be able to produce your ideal tile. Like slate roofs, tiled roofs require minimal maintenance beyond checking that they have not slipped or cracked during patches of exceptionally bad weather, but instead of boring you about that now, if you’re interested, take a look at our pervious blog post about preventing storm damage.  

If you’re looking for an even cheaper option yet again, look into concrete tiling, however this option may not be available for many old and historic roofs due to listed building rules. 

Flat roof coverings

It may sound a little surprising but many older, historic buildings have flatter areas that require alt="GRP fibreglass flat roof covering"flat roofing, typically over extensions, dormers and even towers. EDPM Rubber or GRP fibreglass roofing is an ideal, cheaper option for your old roof restoration as the tight water-proofing qualities are able to protect your building’s beautiful heritage without costing an arm and a leg.

Lead Flashings

Lalt="lead flashings"ead flashings are used in order to protect the junctions between roof alt="lead work"covering and the wall, for example between phatapets and chimneys.
These are often vital for restorations where weathering over time has worn the seal, increasing the likelihood of leaks. Lead is the most effective material to use in this instance due to its ability to expand and contract with the weather, providing the ideal waterproof seal around your home. 

To see more of our lead work, why not take a look at some of our latest projects here.

It is always worthwhile contacting a reputable roofing contractor before making important decisions such as this, so contact us today for a free roof inspection and quote for your next roofing project and we can guide you on the best roof restoration materials for you.

Whilst we’re at it, if you haven’t heard already we are planning a 400 mile cycle from London to Amsterdam in March in aid of Mind and we’d greatly appreciate your support! To find out more, check out our blog post or if you want to donate a few pennies, click here. Thank you!

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Winter Proof Your Home For Christmas

The prospect of a white Christmas and endless snowball fights is exciting, however you can’t have a white Christmas without balmy temperatures, damaging both our homes and our wallets. Snowy roofs and drooping icicles make for the ideal instagram snap, however if you have’t ensured your home is winter proof for Christmas, the costs incurred from the damage they can cause can make that image slightly less serene.

To keep your home nice and cosy and ward off any unnecessary winter damage, take a look at how to keep your home in top condition in even the coldest of temperatures.

Get rid of condensation

Double Glazed windows are heavenly during these cold winter months, however they often alt="condensation on roof"come with that ever too familiar degree of condensation. Keep your windows from steaming up by firstly checking there aren’t any holes in the sealants around your window. This goes the same for your Velux roof windows, where condensation can be even more noticeable as heat rises to the ceiling of your house. Opt for a dehumidifier or if you want to brave the cold, keep a few windows open ajar to keep air circulating around your room and getting rid of any unnecessary excess moisture.

Condensation can seep through your roof insulation and into your roof frame, causing all sorts of damp and damage as it can cool and drip down into your home, creating the appearance of a leak. Call out a roofer to take a better look at your seals and insert some felt between the frame and your roof to prevent damp and mildew.

Look After Your Pipes

It doesn’t take an expert to tell you that when water gets cold, it freezes and expands, however when it’s in your pipes, this can cause your pipes to crack and burst (not good). Leave your outdoor taps dripping just a little in the cold, ensuring that water keeps flowing and it doesn’t freeze.

If you’re not using too many outdoor pipes this winter thanks to the ever present rain, drain them to keep them from unnecessarily freezing over and disconnect them from the mains. Invest in some strong insulation to keep your taps nice and cosy and this goes for pipes in cooler areas of your house, such as those in your attic or garage.

Clear Away Snow

We’re all dreaming of a white Christmas, however our roofs might not be, as settled snow on your rooftop might look pretty but it can be a major culprit for all sorts of problems in your home. Snow and Ice can cause ice dams and create an unnecessary extra weight on your roof, especially when it refreezes and expands. Ice Dams can back up any precipitationalt="ridge" attempting to run off your roof, loosening shingles and creating those nasty leaks. Clear off any excess snow and icicles, keep your gutters from becoming cluttered and consider adding extra insulation into your attic to help prevent freezing. Be careful when removing snow and ice in slippery conditions and if you’re at all unsure about how safe it is, it might be a better bet to call out the professionals.

Look After The Lead

Before the temperatures seriously drop, take a look at your existing flashings on your rooalt="lead flashing on chimney"f, as if they we installed a while ago they may now be loose and the cold weather can only loosen them further. Stop excess precipitation creeping into your roof by repairing your flashings, preventing moisture build-ups that lead to inevitable leaks, keeping your home cosy and damp free in time for Christmas.

Don’t Underestimate The Power Of The Wind

Snow and ice might be the go-to problems to solve during the winter, however its important not to neglect the power of gale force wind. Major storms, such as those we’ve alt="slate roof"had in recent weeks, can in some cases cause even more damage than notorious precipitation, meaning they really are a force not to be reckoned with.

Check out your roof for signs of wind damage and replace any slipped or cracked tiles as we don’t need to tell you that this can be an open door for leeks seeping into your home.

If you’ve noticed any damage or just want a professional to inspect your roof, feel free to give us a call, we’re in China now but will be rolling again in the New Year.

That’s all from us for now, have a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year, and in your time off, why not check out our Facebook and follow us on Instagram.

GRP fibreglass as an alternative roofing system

GRP fibreglass as an alternative roofing system for your box gutters

So you may have noticed the weather has been more than a little damp lately and leaky roofs and damp have become all range. Maybe it’s time to switch up your old, tired materials and look into the benefits of GRP fibreglass roofing system as an alternative water-tight solution for your box gutters, eliminating the risk of leaks and giving you some much needed peace of mind.

What is a Box Gutter?

To put it simply, a box gutter is a gutter (shocking I know) that allows water to run off a pitched roof and drain away, usually into a drainpipe or separator roof. These gutters are formed when two pitched roofs converge and meet at the lowest points, forming, you guessed it, a gutter in the shape of a box, simple right?

If you cant get your head around it… a picture paints a thousand words…alt="fibreglass box gutter">

You can also find a box gutter in situations where a pitched roof runs down to a parapet wall, stopping the water dripping over the front of the building and drenching unsuspecting passers-by.

alt="fibreglass box gutter pitched roof">

Fibreglass box gutter on a pitched roof

Out With The Old

A common culprit for leaks, old box gutters that are made from lead and dressed into shape underneath the tiles and slate on a roof, holding large volumes of water for extended periods of time. Proper installation for lead requires meeting industry requirements for lap, length of lead and mop stick and step positioning… basically, it’s a complicated process that many contractors fail to get right. It’s for this reason we come across countless lazy box gutters that aren’t doing their job properly. If not installed correctly, lead can easily fail and cause leaks into your attic, leading to that dreaded damp smell to start off small… you can read more about the problems just a small leak can cause here.

While we’re at it, why not check out some of our recent lead work…

Why Is GRP Fibreglass So Important?

So we’ve established that lead isn’t always the safest solution to dodging those leaks, indeed a far more reliable material to opt for is GRP Fibreglass. Whether it be an existing property or a new build, when correctly fitted this material has the same, if not far better, waterproofing abilities as lead and a key attribute to note is it’s sheer strength, creating a seamless surface free from leaks. Due to how strong this material is, if your tiles or slates were to slip from a pitched roof into the gutter, there would be absolutely no damage.

Another bonus? GRP is a much cheaper alternative to lead and can be moulded into any shape without the prospect of it cracking, I mean it sounds like a no brainer really.

How Does GRP Compare To Other Materials Out There?


Other commonly-used materials include EPDM rubber or green minerals felt. EPDM is a form of rubber roofing that is often used on uneven structures, such as Velux windows, thanks to its flexible properties. As a durable and incredibly waterproof material, rubber is a great substitute for lead guttering and exhibits almost exactly the same properties.

alt="fibreglass box gutter">

Fibreglassing a pitched roof

alt="fibreglass box gutter pitched roof">

Fibreglass box gutter on a pitched roof

GRP is stronger and more likely to withstand falling debris, from tiles to branches, indeed EPDM rubber would likely end up punctured, creating an ideal hole for water to seep through.

As specialists in flat roofing, whether it be a porch roof, a garage or even a garden shed, if it’s flat we strongly recommend a GRP Fibreglass roofing system for your roof covering. As such a versatile material, fibreglass can even be used for walkways or balcony waterproofing; we even used it for a fish pond!

If you’ve noticed any leaks or damp around your box gutters recently then its crucial not to ignore them as they pose a threat not only to your interior paint-work but your building’s structure as a whole. Call us out for a free inspection and quote if you’re at all worried.

For more pictures of our GRP Fibreglass work, from box gutters, to walkways, to fish ponds, click here.

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Dos and Don’ts of looking after your roof

Perhaps not always on the forefront of our minds, looking after your roof is something most only really consider in times of bad weather or when signs of damp start to appear through the living room ceiling. However, your roof has a pretty big role to fill and from blazing sunshine one minute to terrifying thunderstorms the next, it isn’t exactly having the easiest time up there.

via GIPHY

To take some of the pressure off your DIY attempts, consider some of our dos and don’ts of looking after your roof.

DO this

 

  • Get an annual roof inspection, enabling professionals to spot any areas of potential damage, preventing having to shell out for a new roof in the long run.
  • Check your roof after poor weather, make sure your gutters aren’t over flowing and look for any possible broken tiles. To understand the importance of keeping your gutters clear, alt="cotswold stone roof"click here.
  • Make sure your gutters are fastened correctly and tightly in order to prevent leaks
  • Keep your roof clear of algae, moss and loose branches that could wreak havoc on your roof. Cutting down or tie back any overhanging branches is your best bet.
  • It’s what’s on the inside that counts! Check the corners of your rooms for damp spots and shine a torch into your attic after periods of wet weather, looking for darker, discoloured patches that might indicate something is leaking.
  • Call the professionals. The ultimate goal for many men is to be the king of DIY, however, good as YouTube videos are, there are many jobs out there that perhaps need a little more expertise than first thought. Don’t leave cracks in your work (literally) by neglecting to call out the professionals, we can give you some tips and tricks for the stuff you can do on your own, whilst simultaneously ensuring your roof is in excellent condition to last.

DON’T, ever, do this

  • Wait. Putting off a small job, such as a leak or damp, with the idea of fixing it when you have a whole bunch of problems to sort. If you can see there’s an issue, trust us it is so much easier to fix if you catch it earlier.
  • Clamber onto a wet roof if you are at all unsure. We know, we know, we just said its alt="roof battens'important to check out your roof, however climbing onto a soggy roof could cause a whole host of problems, not least the issue of perhaps a few injuries.
  • Test weak spots by stepping on them. If you do decide you’re confident enough to get up there, do not step directly onto your tiles as they may crack or break under your weight (sorry), adding additional damage to the list
  • Neglect top quality. Whilst you may be looking to finish your home for less money, it is important to make sure you take everything into account when choosing the materials for your roof, not just the price. This could save you time and money in the long run, check out our guide on the best materials to choose from here.

Tackling roofing issues by yourself isn’t a massive issue if you know what you’re doing; however, do not be afraid to ask for help, consider these dos and don’ts of looking after your roof before you go any further.  Allowing the professionals to do their job saves so many dodgy DIY mistakes, so as ever; if you are at all unsure, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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Do roofers work in the rain?

For the more beady eyed of you out there, you may have noticed in our latest job ad that as roofers, we are unable to work some days thanks to ‘weather limitations’, more specifically, pouring rain. So with such a drizzly country in the winter, you may be pondering what roofers actually do when it rains, and for those of you who aren’t thinking this, we’re going to tell you anyway.

Weather watchersalt="slates on construction site on rain day"

For years Carol has been my favourite woman to wake up to in the mornings and for those of you who aren’t familiar, I am of course referring to the wonderful weather woman, Carol. Carol graces our screens every morning with an update on what’s going on with the weather, making up one of the most important parts of the day, do I go to work or do I spend an extra hour in bed?

Some jobs, such as slating, are fine to do in the rain and just result in having to wring out our clothes when we get home, however, others not so much.

Why rain matters for projects

There are numerous reasons as to why rain can impact a roofing project, not only that we get soggy feet. Unexpected rain can be a nuisance but if it stops as quickly as it starts, it’s likely that we’re able to cover the project in a tarpaulin for the duration and resume work again once things have cleared up. 

The main reason behind this momentary pause can be put down to a matter of health and safety, however there are a number of other reasons why it can be ineffective to work in thealt="chimney wet slates" rain. When stripping off an old roof (which is necessary when carrying out reroof works) it’s important that you have dry weather as if you open a roof up to the elements and then you have a heavy down pour, there is nothing stopping the rain from going straight into your building, ruining plasterboard and even collapsing ceilings! It’s this reason that you won’t find us stripping a roof in the rain. Also, its difficult to felt a roof in the rain… there’s the obvious health and safely problems and then theres the problem of getting a wet chalk line, among other nuisances. 

Didn’t your mother ever tell you that you’ll get a cold if you play in the rain? Well this is the final reason as to why we are *forced* to take a day off when its wet. On a really wet day its impossible to stay dry, even with the best waterproofs (believe me i’ve tried them all) and come the end of the day, you’re really wet through and this often doesn’t happen without repercussions… 

When fibreglassing, it’s important to remember to work with the weather and not against it, meaning that fibreglassing in the rain is a big no. Heavy rain can emulsify resin, causing it to become white in colour, rendering it utterly useless if a smooth and sleek roof is what you’re aiming for.

Free Quotes and Consultations

So onto the important stuff, if we can’t work, what exactly do we get up to? Well, with busy days and a small team, it can often be difficult to fit in a time to go visit other jobs, meaning that this task is often saved for the weekend. Rainy days give us the chance to get one step ahead during the week as most mornings are spent visiting customers and assessing their roofs to give free consultations and quotes.

Coffee Time

alt="coffee latte art rain day"With little time to chill out during the day, rainy days mean that I can take the office work to a coffee shop to sit back and people watch, sorry, work. This is usually followed by a stop off at my favourite breakfast place, The Buttery Tea Rooms, however, if you are a regular to this page I probably don’t even have to mention that for you to know its on the agenda.

Catch flights not colds

During the month of December, the weather is often too harsh to get on with much work, rendering what we do as inefficient as large gaps between work often mean that the exposed roof can become water damaged in-between. Making up for the overtime worked in the hot summer months, this is a perfect opportunity to pack a bag and head off on a plane somewhere for a month, last year was Korea, this year is China, where next?

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The Best Material For Your Roof

What should you choose?

Choosing the right materials to use on your roof can often seem like a never ending battle as each material has its own pros and cons. Take a look at our simple guide to the pros and cons of each different material to help decide what fits with your goal and budget for your next project.

Slates

As one of the oldest and most traditional materials out there, it seems appropriate to start with the variety of types of slate that you could choose for your home. Offering a natural and low maintenance finish, slates are one of the most durable materials you could choose for you home. What’s more, if you’re looking for a classy, stylish finish with little effort, slate rarely looks out of place. With a range of different types out there, it can be difficult to choose between them and the final decision often comes down to the size of your budget.

Natural Slate

These tiles consist of natural stone taken from quarries across the country and each quarry produces a different colour or shape of slate, making yours entirely unique. These slates often contain small Natural slate roof with gro box gutterimperfections on them, adding character to your home and giving it a look that can’t be replicated. Your natural slate roof will last you a lifetime thanks to its durability, meaning that although the slightly heftier price tag, it can in some cases be worth it.

Artificial slates

These slates are made out of fibre cement, a strong product that can create good quality slates with a smaller price tag. Available in a range of different colours and shades, these slates are often more appropriate for more adventurous architectural projects as they can be applied in a range of different ways.

Although perhaps a more stylish finish, slates can often be more time-consuming to install than other materials, meaning that your overall costs may end up being higher. Additionally, slates are noticeably heavy and cannot be used on lighter roof structures, however they are perhaps more strom-proof than tiled alternatives.

Slates vs Tiles

Clay tiles

Clay tiles are a hugely popular material for many renovations thanks to the wide variety in colours and sizes available. These tiles are quick and easy to install and replace, meaning that if you have a smaller budget, this is the ideal material for you. Although not as long as natural slates, the lifespan of clay tiles can vary between 30 and 70 years, acting as a pretty safe alternative.

Concrete tiles

More budget tiles are made from concrete and are readily available from builders’ merchants across the country, whereas clay tiles are often homemade, rendering them slightly pricier.

Tiles do tend to crack over time, meaning that regular maintenance is key, additionally if you are switching from a different roofing material to tiles, you roof’s support system may need updating thanks to their heavier weight. If you’re desperate for a slate roof but your budget wont quite stretch to it, get the best of both worlds by using roof tiles that look like slates.

Metal roofing

One of the fastest growing materials on the market, metal roofing is a great option if you’re looking for individual shingles made from aluminium, steel or copper, This is appealing thanks to its durability and since is nothing to crack or slip out of place, regular maintenance isn’t necessary, however it does often need to be custom made.

Flat roofs

As specialist flat roofers, this is our area. Flat roofing systems are different to pitched roofs, meaning that slates and tiles aren’t needed to keep your home watertight. Instead, a waterproof membrane is needed to be installed. There are a number of different roofing systems to choose from here so lets go through them…

Felt

Roofing felt is an older, more traditional roofing system that is generally a lot cheaper than its alternatives. With a three layer membrane in most newer felts, modern felt roofing is more sustainable than its former bitumen and stone chip versions, and what’s more, the waterproof polyester membrane ensures that your roof is well protected from the elements whilst providing a substantial level of roof insulation.

Perhaps the cheapest and easiest material to put down, felt is a reliable material that can last around 10 years and after this it is super easy to replace. These membranes are pretty much impenetrable and are great at waterproofing your home on a budget.

GRP Fibreglass

This is one of our favourite materials to work with and lets tell you why. GRP is far more durable and longer lasting than felt materials and only costs a fraction more. It is easy to apply and can be suited to almost any roof types and sizes so long as there are strong enough foundations.

So which is better? Well this comes down to the scale and type of your job. You see, small outbuildings, sheds and garages will fear well with a cheaper felt roof over the top of them, however for larger projects you should probably consider fibreglass. Both systems are similar in terms of how weather tight they are however thanks to its slightly stronger characteristics, fibreglass may be a better alternative in areas with more extreme weather conditions.

Rubber bond

A hugely popular and cost effective material to opt for, rubber roofing is a great choice for property owners with flat roofs. Used as a weather proofing solution in addition to roofing systems, this material is available in black or white and requires little maintenance other than occasional cleaning and repairs (see our last post for more information on the importance of cleaning your rain gutters).

Rubber roofing vs Roofing felt

This is a far more durable material to its felt counterparts and can withstand some of the most extreme weather. It is also more flexible, reducing the difficulty and therefore costs of repairs when leaks occur. Whilst felt still remains the cheapest material, it is worth weighing up all the options before you make your final decision.

Checkout our projects gallery for more information or if you need a little more inspiration 🙂

Can summer damage your roof?

Summer damage for your roof

With the unseasonal August weather leaving us all scratching our heads, you might be pleasantly surprised by the news of a heatwave this weekend. But what does this mean for your roof? With one of the wettest Augusts on record followed by a few days of actual summer weather, this could have a significant impact the longevity of your roof down the road.

You might want to be aware of some of the problems that can crop up so as not to risk a costly total roof replacement, so without further ado, here are some of the ways this summer weather can cause a problem for your roof…

Water is the enemy

With so much rain in a short amount of time followed by a quick flurry of hot weather, these are the perfect conditions for moss and mould growth. When moisture builds up within the layers of your roof, mould and moss is given freedom to grow, damaging your roof from the inside out.

Thriving in warm, wet climates in between shingles in your roof, moss can grow out onto the exteriors of your roof, making it look like you’ve got a thick green blanket over your house. Whilst this may not seem like a big deal, as well as making your roof look rather uneasy on the eye, moss is notorious for holding water. This means that your roof can become covered in concentrated damp patches that will eventually seep through and create leaks.<img alt="water_is_the_enemy">

The problem doesn’t stop there, indeed damp patches in your house can lead to mould which can have a poor impact on your health as well as your interiors.

There are two simple and easy ways to stop the summer storms running your roof. The first option is to stick a strip of zinc across the apex of the roof, creating an alkaline liquid when it comes into contact with water, killing moss as it trickles down. Alternatively, fix a small piece of copper wire underneath your ridge to stop any moss accumulating as well as preventing growth in the first place. If you’re unsure on what to do or simply have too much to deal with on your roof, give us a call and we can sort it.

Summer can escalate rotting damage

Since roof decking is usually made of plywood, leaks from summer storms can leave your decking to bend and rot. Since the decking acts as additional support for your roof thanks to its strength, it cannot support the weight of your roof if damage becomes severe. This means that your roof is in danger of collapsing. Poor attic ventilation accompanied by summer storms and <img alt="rotting">intense heat can also have the same effect as your attic can overheat, accelerating the time taken for mould and rotting to form.

Keep an eye on this, if your ceiling starts to leak that’s a pretty clear sign you have a problem, other more subtle clues include mould and mildew appearing on your walls or dark damp patches in your attic. If you spot a slight sagging or dip in your roofline from the outside then it’s worth taking a look to manage the damage.

It’s recommended that you get your roof inspected at least once a year, so once this weather has passed it’s worth getting someone out to check that all’s good.

Cracked shingles

A little known fact, the sun can cause almost as much damage as rain as with the predicted 30° heat this weekend, your roof can reach almost double this temperature. Intense heat after a cooler, wetter period can lead to your shingles drying out, making them prone to cracking and breaking when the next storm hits. Look out for this as cracking can lead to eventual roof collapse if you’re not careful.

If the confusing August weather has been a little too much for your roof, don’t leave it until it’s too late. We can accommodate to all your roofing needs so give us a shout for a free quote and consultation.

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Common Roofing Questions Answered

 

How much will my roof leak repair cost?

How much will my roof leak repair cost? How much will it cost for a totally new roof? Questions we hear almost every day, however there is no black and white answer. No matter what the circumstance, it always comes back to how much of your hard earned money it’s going to take to ensure that your roof is in optimal condition and your home is protected from the elements.Everyone’s home is different and prices vary due to location, size of the repair and the materials used. The best way to find out the cost of a repair is to give us a call and we will aim to get to you within the week and can offer you a free quote on the day, offering the best quality materials and customer service. It must be noted that without a good quality, well installed roof your building with be susceptible to damp and rot may occur from the top down. Structural joists and beams will be in the line of fire, as well as ceilings and electrics, it really does pay to have a quality roof!roof_leak_repair_cost

How long can I expect my roof to last?

As to be expected, there are many factors that can prolong or shorten the life of your roof, but in general, a brand new roof can be expected to withstand around 20 years of weathering, with flat roofs naturally lasting less time as water doesn’t run off them as fast. However, a well installed GRP Fibreglass roof installed with top materials can be expected to last upwards of 20 years. There are also elements that affect this lifespan, for instance if you live in an area that experiences weather conditions such as heavy snowfall regularly, your roof may last shorter than is standard. Roofs that are regularly inspected and maintained should last longest and your home will stay protected from the elements for longer.

How long will it take to install a new roof?

When your roof begins to leak, it’s not something you can put off until next year, you need it fixed quickly.Trust us when we say it pays to have a good roof! You may also be unsure of what a repair is needed, whether it’s an easy repair or maybe you’ve reached the end of your current roof’s lifespan and its time for a new roof, rest assured the process is more simple than you may think.

Should a new roof be installed in winter?

There are certainly more advantageous times of year to install a new roof or commission a repair, autumnal and spring showers may cause delays in the work that needs doing as roofers are often unable to work in the rain. Also, GRP Fibreglass needs bone dry conditions with little moisture in the air to allow the resin to cure properly. However, as roofers in England we are experienced at working in harsher climates, meaning that all jobs are feasible in the winter. If its not an urgent repair you need, plan it carefully and book in a job well before the summer to ensure you can be fit in.

Should I install a completely new roof or continue repairing the existing one?

 You may have heard that you can continue replacing tiles or slates on your roof for years instead of installing a new roof, however there are times when a new roof is preferable. Constantly replacing materials won’t always stop your ceiling from leaking and internal damage may occur, meaning that its time to call out the professionals so that they can keep your interiors dry. Additionally, if your tiles or slates continue to slip, they will need refastening or it could be dangerous for those walking directly underneath. This doesn’t necessarily require an entire new roof but it is worth getting an expert out to identify the looser tiles in order to keep your home secure.

What materials should I use?

When considering what materials to use, there are a few elements to consider, for example planning permission and budget. For pitched roofs, the most common materials to use are slate or tiles. Slate can either come in natural form or man made, with the latter usually working out cheaper. When it comes to tiles, the two most common options are clay or concrete with concrete costing considerably less. The more expensive options will usually be more aesthetically pleasing and they are often longer lasting, however they are not always necessary concrete tiles and cement fibre slates will be more than adequate for the vast majority of roofs. They each come in a range of sizes and even colours.

On flat roofs there are a range of options including lead, GRP fibreglass, Rubber and more traditional felt. For more information please see our solutions page.

The team at Sacklyn roofing are experienced and professionally trained roofers who will do their best to fix all your roof-related problems in the shortest time possible. We provide a high quality service that ensures that your roof will withstand 20+ years of weathering. For more information visit our main site www.sacklynroofing.co.uk or read our recent blog posts. So if you’re looking for a quote for your next project, or just some information on your roof leak repair cost, contact us now.

 

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Slate Hip Alternatives

With over 30 years experience in roofing, we’re no stranger to a slate hip to tidy up a roof, take a look at some mitred slate hip alternatives from a project completed in 2018.

Mitered Slate Hips

Here’s a few pictures from a 2018 project on an industrial unit roof in Gloucestershire.

The product used was a textured cement fibre slate. A good alternative to natural slate, especially with the textured finish.

Other roofing materials used during this installation were a high quality roofing felt and a treated 25x50mm roofing batten.

Code 5 lead cap

The four hips of the roof are joint with a mitered effect in the cement fibre slate, creating an almost seem less join between all four faces of the roof. An alternative method of hip would be to use hip tiles made out of other materials such as clay or concrete.

The ridge was capped with a piece of code 5 lead, thick and durable.

Feel free to contact us with any of your roofing needs!

Mitered hip

Mitered hip

Mitered hip

For more, check out our latest slate roof projects and see if you can spot any more slate hip alternatives, make sure you like us on facebook and check out our Instagram!

Natural Stone Roofs, Gloucestershire

Natural stone roofs are among the oldest roof coverings around and are typically used in the Cotswold’s. A stone roof can last for 100 years or more and look absolutely stunning. Traditionally the roof is tiled with diminishing courses with the largest tiles at the bottom of the roof and the smallest at the top. This is a barn that we are working on with a natural stone roof in Shipton, just outside Cheltenham.

The nature of stripping a natural stone roof, sorting all the various different size tiles and reusing the sound tiles is always time consuming but the end results are rewarding.

Natural Stone Roofs

Natural Stone Roofs

Natural Stone Roofs

If natural stone roofs aren’t quite the aesthetic you’re looking for, as specialist flat and slate roofers we are able to fit a wide variety of materials to suit all of your needs for your next project. If you’re looking to find out more, check out our blog post detailing the range of materials available.

So if you are looking for experienced roofers in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire or the Cotswold’s then contact us for your free quotation for:

  • Construction of new stone roofs
  • Turning stone roofs
  • Repairing stone roofs

No job is considered too big or too small for us, so please do get in touch for more information on your natural stone roofs

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