A new roof costs between £5,000 and £7,000. That’s a lot of money. So, it’s not a sum you want to spend very often. Thankfully roofs tend to last at least 20 years. But with a bit of care, a roof can last between 30 and 50 years. In some cases, roofs can last even longer.
So, how do you ensure your roof makes it that far? Here are seven sensible tips for extending the lifespan of your roof.
Choose the right materials
When you replace your roof, the materials you choose can make a difference to its durability. Perhaps most important is the type of roof tiles you go for. Although the upfront costs of some tiles are higher, that extra spend might be worth it if you get an extra 10 to 30 years out of your roof. For instance, slate tiles are typically more expensive than concrete tiles. But with the right care, a slate roof can last for more than 100 years.
Match materials to the climate
Tiles are designed to be weather-resistant and long-lasting but some materials, like slate and clay, are more suited to wet and windy climates. However, clay is more prone to cracking in really cold temperatures. In wet climates, both clay and concrete tiles are prone to lichen and moss growth too. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use them but it does mean there may be more maintenance involved. So, that’s something to bear in mind.
Check the quality
It’s not just the type of roof materials you use. They also need to be of good quality if they’re going to last. For instance, Welsh slate is known for its density. This is what makes it so good at standing up to harsh weather. Slate is also graded to determine quality. S1 is the highest grade and can be expected to last at least 75 years. But it’s not just slate, all tiles can vary in quality. So, you need to know what to look out for. For example, a consistent colour and texture and a reasonable weight are key indicators of quality in a concrete tile.
Keep a close eye on it
Once you’ve paid out for your new roof, you want it to stay in good condition. One of the top ways to do this is to keep a close eye on it. It may seem like a waste of money, but having your roof inspected annually helps to spot problems that may not be apparent from inside the house or from the ground. This can save you from needing major repairs and will help tokeep your roof in good condition.
Don’t put off maintenance
Roofs do develop problems over time. Often due to the weather. So, it’s essential to stay on top of maintenance. It might be just one slipped tile, but get it repaired. If you don’t fix it, you’re risking water ingress which can cause damage to your roof timbers and the inside of your home. Similarly, allowing moss and lichen to build up on your roof can affect the moisture-resistance of your tiles. So, it’s worth getting this cleaned off periodically.
Keep gutters clear
Gutters are a fundamental part of your roof. They ensure that rainwater is channelled off the roof and safely into the drains. When gutters become blocked, rainwater tends to collect and pool – this can lead to the rotting of timber fascias and does risk moisture seeping into the fabric of your roof. So, if you want your roof to last, it’s a good idea to keep gutters clear. Ideally, you should get them cleaned out two to three times a year.
Get out in the garden
Extending the lifespan of your roof isn’t just about keepingthe roof itself maintained. You also need to keep your garden in good order. Trees are a particular risk to roofs. Diseased trees are more at risk of falling over or losing branches in windy weather but even healthy trees are a risk to roofs if they overhang your home. Trees aren’t the only garden hazard. Vigorous climbing plants including Ivy and Virginia Creeper can look attractive growing up our walls, but they can pose a risk to your roof if they’re allowed to grow over gutters and tiles. So, keep plants in check and seek the advice of a professional gardener if you’re unsure of how to train or prune plants and shrubs like Wisteria.
