Comprimised flat roof

[DanGB]

Hi all,

After yesterdays torrent of constant rain, seems like my old flat roof has given way and water has entered the house.

Yesterday discovered a small damp patch near the bathroom ceiling on the external wall side:
Dug a bit out to investigate, the plaster is about 1cm thick with brick behind. Should be cavity wall as it an extension built in the late 80's.

This evening went outside and saw a bit of a disaster. The flat roof is crap and needs replacing I knew, but it seems to have got worse without noticing. EDIT: Just looked at some photos and its been like this for quite a while.

What should I do?

I will call up for quotes for a roof replacement of course, but also call around for an emergency or temporary repair to make it water tight again before it rains early next week, as it clearly leaked water into the house. How would this be temporarily fixed would you suggest?

Also, what should I do about the internal dampness now, just let it dry out? or is investigation required now to see if the cavity is wet etc? As water may have been getting in for a while.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[^woody^]

Let it dry out naturally.

A cover over the whole lot, or a bit of felt and some Acrypol sealant will sort it out for a while.

If you had any strong gusts recently, then you may like claim on your insurance if you are certain (or a roofer is) that the gust did the damage rather than wear and tear.

 

[DanGB]

Thanks for the reply. Had someone come out and patch the edge up with some felt for £100. (London prices).
Getting quotes now for a full replacement. quite a few rotten timbers it seems.

 

[lucylincoln]

Thanks for the reply. Had someone come out and patch the edge up with some felt for £100. (London prices).
Getting quotes now for a full replacement. quite a few rotten timbers it seems.

Hi Dan, what were your quotes like for the full replacement?
I know this probably isn't too helpful now as it's too late but once you get your new flat roof don't forget to inspect it a few times a year, especially after severe weather. Here are some tips for what to look for when doing an inspection http://waterproofsystems.co.uk/news/rubber roof maintenance. One of my key tips would be to look out for pooling water, it shouldn't take longer than 72 hours after the last rainfall for it to completely drain - if it's still there, it can suggest incorrect drainage which can lead to interior leaks etc!