When it comes to roofs, each season brings distinct challenges, from winter snow and ice to autumn leaves and storms. While it may not be at the top of your to-do list, undertaking certain roof maintenance and care tasks throughout the year is important to prevent serious (and potentially costly) repairs. Keep on top of your roof maintenance with our 2024 roofing calendar.
Plan your annual roof maintenance
A roof is a vital structural component and therefore requires regular maintenance to ensure it functions optimally throughout the year. While the unpredictable Leeds weather often means the seasons do not always deliver the conditions we expect, by following our annual roof maintenance guide you can stay ahead of any issues and help prevent the need to undertake more significant and expensive repairs.
December to February
The winter months often bring harsh weather which can have a detrimental impact on roofs. The main issues are heavier rainfall and high winds which will expose any pre-existing weaknesses on your roof. Wind can easily take hold of any loose tiles or flashing, with heavy rain sure to penetrate even the smallest gap in your roof’s covering.
As anyone in the UK will know, the winter weather can be harsh and unrelenting, meaning it’s important that your roof is in a good condition in the first place. Get in touch with us at DPR Roofing to discuss your concerns and talk through possible solutions.
Another winter worry is freeze-thaw weathering due to sub-zero temperatures. This refers to rainwater getting into even the smallest crack in roofing materials. When it freezes, it will expand ever so slightly. Over time, this can lead to cracks becoming bigger and materials becoming loose.
A further issue to consider during (or even ahead of) winter is attic or loft insulation. Adequate insulation can reduce heat loss from the property, thereby lowering energy bills. But it’s important to replace any insulation materials that have been damaged by roof leaks in the past.
March to May
With (hopefully!) the worst of the winter weather over, we recommend bringing in a professional to give your roof a thorough inspection. This will check for such issues as missing or broken tiles which may have gone unnoticed during the winter, as well as picking up on more serious concerns including cracks and rotted timber.
At DPR Roofing, we offer survey and inspection services for domestic properties and commercial sites across all areas of Leeds, including Morley, Horsforth and Pudsey.
With the warmer weather comes the opportunity to get outside to safely trim any branches overhanging your roof (or employ a professional to do so). If branches break off during high winds, they can cause damage to the roof.
A further weather-related risk during this season is rain. Heavy and persistent rain can damage tiles, encourage the build-up of mould and decay, and accumulate in blocked gutters. So, clean out your gutters regularly and check for evidence of leaks or unwanted overflow following a downpour.
Spring is also the best season in which to deal with any algae or moss on your roof. Cleaning the roof every few years can help to prevent build-up. There are treatments available which can prevent its growth or regrowth. The risks of algae or moss include damage to the tiles.
June to August
While the summer generally brings warmer temperatures, there is still a risk of storms and rain. Make sure you check your gutters and keep them free of debris and blockages.
This is a good time to ensure your loft or attic is properly ventilated to reduce the risk of condensation, which can cause decay to the roof timber and structural damage if left untreated. If you notice moisture build-up, the first step is to check for obstructions around the vents, such as items stacked up in the loft.
In addition, this is the season to check for nests, which birds and small animals may have built in your loft or gutters, as they can cause a blockage. A further concern can be wasps nests, which tend to be found in the loft, underneath the roof, often in the rafters. These are best dealt with by professional pest controllers.
If you are considering a full roof replacement, now might be a good time to do your research and even schedule the work. There are advantages and disadvantages to undertaking this work in the summer. However, if you start planning it now, you will have ample opportunity to get the work done well ahead of the winter.
September to November
These months can be especially unpredictable when it comes to the weather, with the chance of warmer summer-like temperatures, heavy rain or the early onset of winter. Remain vigilant to the conditions and how they might affect your roof, particularly persistent rain, high winds and debris blown around during storms.
One thing you can be sure of during the autumn is falling leaves, which can, again, clog the gutters. It is recommended to clean out the gutters regularly during autumn, especially following a storm. The risk of gutters becoming blocked include water damage when water overflows and gets onto your walls, which can lead to damp inside your property.
As well as addressing concerns specific to the season, this is a good time to think ahead to winter. Consider having your roof inspected now, so you can take steps to rectify any problems before it gets colder, which may lead to issues accessing the roof and carrying out repairs.
If you do not wish to have a full inspection, it is recommended to at least check for any loose or missing tiles and to arrange for these to be repaired or replaced, so your roof enters the winter months in prime condition.
Call in the Leeds roofing experts
Whether you need repairs, gutter clearance or a full overhaul, DPR Roofing is on hand year-round to keep roofs all across Leeds functioning optimally, giving property owners like you peace of mind, whatever the season. Contact us today on 0113 335 0043.