Five Common Signs Your Roof Is Faulty

Identifying the early signs of roof damage can save you from costly repairs and protect your property. Here are the top warning signs to watch out for:

Why Regular Roof Maintenance Matters

Regular roof inspections and repairs can extend the life of your roof and help you avoid expensive damage further down the line.

Small roof issues such as loose tiles or minor leaks can quickly escalate into major problems if left unaddressed.

Regular inspections and maintenance catch these issues early, saving you money on extensive repairs or even a full roof replacement.

TIP: If you notice any issues, contact us for a free quote service and expert advice.

1. Water Stains

Water stains on ceilings or walls are often the first visible sign of a roof leak.

They are usually yellow or brown in colour and indicate spots where water has reached a surface and dried up. Stains can also be damp as water continues to travel through a wall/ceiling.

Over time persistent damp water will cause damage to paintwork, with bubbling and peeling being a common issue.

However, if left untreated, a leak can start damaging the wall itself, weakening its strength and potentially causing further damage to your property.

2. Sagging Roof

A sagging roof is a clear indication of structural issues caused by weakened support beams.

Support beams can be weakened by factors such as age, poor workmanship, pest infestation, water damage and poor ventilation to name a few.

Depending on the severity of the sagging, repair work can range from support beam repairs and shingle replacements to a full roof replacement.

TIP: As the extent of the work is judged by roof surveyors, it's important to choose a knowledgable roofing contractor that can deliver an accurate quote.

3. Damp or Smelly Loft Spaces

A musty smell in your loft or attic is often a sign of poor ventilation or water intrusion.

Additional signs include damp spaces - these could be found on support beams, loft flooring or the underside of the roof membrane, and visible mould in the form of black or green spots. For properties with loft windows, check to see whether you can see any visible condensation on the glass panes.

Damp loft spaces can be caused by mutliple factors, most commonly due to overcrowding or blocked roof vents preventing the circulation of air in the property.

4. Missing Roof Tiles or Slates

Missing or damaged tiles expose your roof to the elements, increasing the risk of leaks.

For most houses in the UK, missing tiles can be spotted from ground level. Tiles are most commonly lost during bad weather, such as heavy winds or rain.

However, tiles can also fall off in normal conditions due to the age of the supporting nails keeping the tiles secure.

Make sure to inspect your roof regularly from ground level, especially after storms to spot any missing or disloged tiles that need replacing.

TIP: Choose a reputable roofing roofing contractor who will install new tiles correctly. With quality installation and roofing materials, your roof has a greater lifespan!

5. Mould or Mildew Growth

Mould and mildew, especially in the loft or on interior walls, indicate excess moisture entering your home. Not only can this damage your roof, but it also poses potential health risks for your household.

The most common cause of mould and mildew is a roof leak, providing the damp and humid conditions for growth to occur. Other causes include leaking pipes/gutters, condensation and poor ventilation.

Need Help with your Roof?

Does your roof have one or more of the above problems? Don't wait until small problems turn into major expenses!

With over 40 years of experience and a 9.8 rating on Checkatrade, we pride ourselves on being the best roofing contractors in the North-East.

For peace of mind, call the team to arrange a free appointment to diagnose your problem and receive a free quote for the required work.

Alternatively, you can submit a form request here.