Acton has street after street of Victorian terraces. Many of these homes share a roof layout that hides one of the most common leak points in West London: the lead valley. This guide explains how valley gutters work, what goes wrong with them, and how roofers repair them properly. As local roofers covering Acton, we see these problems often.
What is a lead valley?
A valley is the channel where two roof slopes meet. On many Acton terraces, you will also find a hidden valley or parapet gutter between neighbouring houses. Traditionally, roofers lined these channels with sheet lead. The lead carries rainwater from both slopes down to a hopper or downpipe.
Because the valley collects water from two slopes, it works harder than any other part of the roof. So when it fails, a lot of water can get in quickly.
Why lead valleys fail
Lead lasts a long time when roofers fit it correctly. However, several things shorten its life. For example, lengths that are too long can crack as they expand and contract. Missing laps and drips let water run back under the joints. Leaves and moss also block the channel, so water spills over the edges.
On older terraces, the boards under the lead can rot. As a result, the valley sags and water sits in it instead of draining away.
How a valley is repaired
Sometimes a patch works as a short-term fix for small splits. In most cases, though, the lasting answer is to strip the old lining and renew it. First, we lift the tiles or slates along each side. Then we check and replace any rotten boards. Next, we fit new lead in the right lengths, with proper laps. Finally, we re-set the tiles or slates so they overhang the valley correctly.
Some owners choose a GRP valley liner instead of lead. Either way, we explain the options and put them in a written quote.
Signs your valley needs attention
Watch for damp patches on the ceiling or party wall in a top-floor room, especially after heavy rain. Also look for stains running down the inside of the chimney breast, or water dripping from the hopper head. If you can see the valley from a window, check for splits, lifted edges or plants growing in it.
When to call roofers in Acton
Call us if you notice damp patches on ceilings, slipped tiles or overflowing gutters. Also get in touch after a storm if anything on the roof looks out of place. Before any major changes, it is also worth checking the Planning Portal guidance on roof work.
Hiring roofers in Acton
GNP Roofing Building Ltd works from Southall, so Acton is usually around 15 to 20 minutes away for our team. We have over 15 years of experience and carry full public liability insurance. In addition, every job comes with a 10-year written guarantee. Our own team does the work, so we never subcontract. Every quote is also free, written and itemised.
Want roofers in Acton to take a look? Contact us for a free written quote, or call +447424323113.