Uxbridge has two quite different kinds of roof. Much of the suburbs is interwar Metroland housing with tiled, hipped roofs. Meanwhile, some older parts of the area still have small slate-roofed cottages. Each needs a different approach, so this guide looks at both. As local roofers covering Uxbridge, we see these problems often.
Metroland semis: what to look for
Metroland semis usually have hipped roofs with clay or concrete tiles, plus bay window roofs and a porch canopy. Many roofs are now close to a century old. As a result, the original nails and battens are often near the end of their life. You may notice tiles slipping in small groups, or ridge and hip tiles working loose.
In many cases, a careful repair is enough. However, if the underfelt has failed across the whole roof, a re-roof may be better value in the long run.
Slate cottages: a gentler approach
Natural slate can last a very long time. Often the slates themselves are fine and only the fixings have failed. So the usual fix is to refix slipped slates with discreet clips rather than replace the roof. Where slates are broken, we match them as closely as possible so the repair blends in.
Chimneys on older cottages also need attention. For example, worn pointing and cracked flaunching often let water into the stack.
Guttering and fascias
On both types of home, gutters take a lot of punishment. Leaves, moss and debris cause overflowing, and that can lead to damp walls. Also, timber fascias can rot behind the gutter. We can clear, repair or replace gutters and fascias as part of a roof visit.
A note for landlords
Uxbridge has many rented homes. In a rented property, small leaks can go unreported for months. For this reason, an occasional roof and gutter check can save a much bigger bill later.
When to call roofers in Uxbridge
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 Uxbridge
GNP Roofing Building Ltd works from Southall, so Uxbridge is usually around 20 to 25 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 Uxbridge to take a look? Contact us for a free written quote, or call +447424323113.