Is your roof ready for winter? (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Is your roof ready for winter?

9:20am Saturday 22nd September 2012 in Lifestyle

With the clocks going back in five weeks’ time, now is the time to check your roof is ready for winter, says Stourbridge energy expert Colin Priest.

He warned householders not to wait until the first snowfall or heavy rain before finding out if the tiles needs attention as it will not only be more difficult, but it will also be less effective.

Colin, pictured, who lives in Quarry Bank, offered these top ten tips to stop costs going through the roof later in the year.

He said residents who are worried about safety and heights can still carry out most of this inspection from the ground using a good pair of binoculars.

1. Missing or slipped tiles: Get them replaced as soon as possible to stop any leaks.

2. Curled up and cracked tiles: This can be caused by ultra violet rays or extreme weather and ice which will result in loss of water resistance and consequently additional leaks.

3 . Split or corroded lead flashing, particularly around the chimney, can cause problems if not sealed properly.

4. Discoloured patches on the roofing, for example any black or green areas; this may be algae which can eat away at the roof. Also look out for any sagging on the ridges or in the centre of the roof.

5 . Drains and guttering: Ensure that they are free of debris so that they won’t obstruct water flow. Check the downspouts for blockage and ensure that the water run-off is at a reasonable distance from the building.

6 . Trees and bushes: Cut back or remove all dangerous tree branches and potentially problematic shrubs overhanging any part of the roof.

7 . Loose, exposed or inadequate nails or fasteners are another source of leaks. Also the inside of the roof needs looking at from the attic.

8. If the felt between the rafters is sagging there may be a problem.

9 . If you can see daylight through the roof the tiles this needs checking. One solution is to spray foam your loft with the Icynene Insulation System which is an environmentally friendly investment for your home and comes with a lifetime warranty (www.icynene.com). This non-toxic system forms an air-tight seal in the attic and reduces heating bills by up to 50 per cent as it literally stops heat going up through the roof.

10. Dark spots in the wood, especially around vents, chimneys and other holes in the roof, need investigating. Leaks are the first sign of deterioration in a roof and can appear as stains in the house or wet areas under the roof deck or attic.

Colin said any householders unsure or worried about any problems should get a professional company, such as Noreus Ltd, to carry out a thorough and free roof inspection.

“Last year’s harsh winter may have affected your roof more than you first thought,” he added. “It is better and easier to sort out these problems during the milder autumn weather than during the cold and frosty months.”

For more details about roof inspections call Colin on 0845 474 6641.