Winter is when a roof earns its keep, and also when small faults turn into real problems. A little attention in autumn goes a long way towards a dry, trouble free winter.
Start with a visual check on a clear day. Look for any tiles that have slipped or cracked over summer, and pay attention to the ridge and the flashing around the chimney. These are the spots where wind and rain do the most damage, and they are the most common starting point for winter leaks.
Clear the gutters and downpipes so that heavy rain drains away instead of backing up and running down the walls. Blocked gutters in December are a fast route to damp walls by February. While you are at it, glance at the fascias and soffits for any signs of rot or gaps.
Inside, take a look in the loft. Daylight where there should not be any, damp timber, or water marks all point to something that needs looking at before the weather closes in. Good loft ventilation also helps keep condensation and its mould in check through the colder months.
If anything looks off, or you simply want peace of mind, a quick pre winter inspection is a sensible move. We will tell you honestly what needs doing now and what can safely wait until spring.