How Roofers Assess a Damaged Roof

Roofs can be difficult to inspect for damage from the ground, but an experienced roofer will normally follow a strict sequence of checks when inspecting a roof for damage.

Ground Level and Roof Access

From ground level you can look for missing or slipped tiles, damaged ridge caps, and signs of movement around chimney stacks and roof valleys. Additional signs of potential problems include missing or damaged roof flashing. From the ladder you can then gain access to the roof to inspect the individual tiles or slates for signs of cracking or deterioration.

Checking the Loft Interior

The further internal check of a roof consists of the search for daylight between roof structure elements, for damp patches, for stained or sagging felt. Each of these items can be associated with the structure’s secondary barrier, the felt. How roof structures and their coverings are typically constructed is key to this.

Probing Felt and Flashing

Lead flashings are pressed down and flexed to look for signs of cracking or lifting whilst mortar flashings are pressed down on to look for signs of cracking or lifting also. Brittleness, tears and pooling are all looked for when checking felt.

Gutters and Fascias

Blocked gutters allow water to spill over the edge of the fascia. Pulling gutters allow water to run down behind the fascia causing hidden rot. Check gutter fixings, fall and any overflow marks on walls.

Documenting the Findings

These findings will be fully detailed in a written assessment listing all defects found, where they are located and the likely cause to inform the home owner of the full extent of work required.

Roofers Chichester is covered in more detail at https://www.randsroofing.co.uk/roofing-services/roofers-chichester/.

Whilst an inspection will take some time to complete, it will highlight any potential problems before they become larger repairs due to secondary damage.