Roofs

Old roofs can suffer from issues ranging from the corrosion of fixings, mortar erosion to the ridge, hip and verge tiles, as well as decay of the timber structure. Clay tiles, in particular, are susceptible to the freeze and thaw process that can lead to the face of the tiles breaking down. Although a roof can last a lifetime if installed and maintained correctly, it is vital to select a contractor who understands old buildings. Reroofing work requires building regulations approval.

Maintenance checklist

• Ensure gutters, valleys and run-outs are kept• Check roof slopes for missing, slipped and broken slates or tiles• Inspect the underside of the roof for chinks of light and rain penetration• Look for roof debris on the ground and in the loft space• Deal with any signs of condensation in roof spaces• Note potential problems with junctions and ridges• Identify split or decaying roof timbers