From the roof space inside
If the inside of the roof is unlined, check for cracks showing daylight as this will indicate
areas needing closer inspection. Shine a torch on the timbers and check for water staining.
If stains are found on the timber, try to trace the source of the stain. It is useful to
inspect the inner roof space after a long period of rain, as the source of a leak is easier
to trace. Tiles do deteriorate with age so check for hairline cracks by looking for staining
on the tiles.
From ground level
Outside, check the whole roof by inspecting at ground level. It is easy to spot a disjointed
or slipped tile against the regular lines of tiles. If there is a change to the colour of a
section, it could be newly exposed and therefore unweathered. Look at the ridge on the
skyline and check for gaps in the mortar joints. Check for the state of the flashings at
abutments and around chimney stacks. Check for fallen pieces of mortar.
If the roof is too
high to allow you comfortable access by ladder for a closer inspection, use binoculars to
scan the surface as carefully as possible, from all angles - front, back and sides where
applicable.
At the roof level
If you are using a ladder, always make sure it is set up correctly and long enough - at least
3 rungs above the gutter. Always work with someone standing near by when you are working at
a height. See our Ladder Users Guide for details on how to
use a ladder correctly and safely.
Once at the roof level, only access the surface of the
roof using a roof ladder. This is a purpose built ladder that has wheels to allow you to
push it up the sloping roof without dislodging or damaging the slates. When the wheels
reach the top of the roof ridge, by turning the ladder over a hook securely lodges on the
ridge.
You can hire roof ladders see Hire Shops.
Otherwise, there are wheel and hook sections available to buy which fit onto conventional
ladders. If you are going to be working on the house, perhaps a scaffold tower would be
worth hiring (see Hire Shops).
Should a roof be replaced?
If patch repairs are regularly necessary, it may be time for the roof to be re-covered. It
is difficult for an amateur to judge whether a new roof is required. If you need advice
about the soundness or safety of your roof, contact one or two builders for their opinion.
Alternatively, pay a surveyor or architect for an unbiased report on its condition.
A
contractor, who will guarantee the work completed, should undertake major roof repairs or
replacement of sections. It is worth checking with your local authority to see if you qualify
for a discretionary improvement grant. This will depend on the age of your property plus
its rateable value. Planning permission is not required for roof replacements unless the
building is a listed property or you live in a conservation area.
The type and colour of the tiles can enhance or spoil the appearance of the house. If you
live in a terraced or semi-detached property, consider the covering of the neighbouring
roof, which can affect the overall appearance of your roof.
