The upkeep of your roof can be expensive, especially when it comes to repairs or full replacement. That said, did you know that with just two inspections a year, you could significantly reduce the risk of serious damage and save thousands of pounds in the long run?
Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against the elements, from torrential rain to baking sun, howling wind to heavy snowfall. As roofing specialists with nearly 50 years of experience, Cooper & Williams has seen it all. That’s why we’ve put together these essential roof maintenance tips to help Shropshire homeowners keep their roofs in top condition year-round.
Why Roof Maintenance Matters
Many homeowners forget about their roof until it leaks, but by that point, the damage is often extensive and expensive. Regular roof inspections help you:
- Spot minor issues before they become major problems
- Extend the lifespan of your roof
- Maintain your home’s energy efficiency
- Avoid structural damage to your loft or attic
- Increase your property’s value and kerb appeal
Whether you live in a modern home in Telford or a listed cottage in the Shropshire Hills, regular roof care is a vital part of protecting your property.
Your Twice-Yearly Roof Checklist
We recommend inspecting your roof every spring and autumn. These checks don’t always require a ladder; in many cases, a pair of binoculars and a walk around your property will do the trick. If you’re ever unsure or uncomfortable, our Shrewsbury roofing experts are always happy to help.
1. Signs of Wear and Tear
Look for:
- Missing, cracked or curling shingles or tiles
- Bald patches on felt roofs
- Loose flashing around chimneys or skylights
Replacing a few damaged shingles is a simple and cost-effective fix. Leaving them can allow water to seep underneath, leading to rot, mould, and insulation damage, particularly in winter when freezing and thawing cycles worsen the problem.
2. Rust on Metal Fixtures
Have you got a metal roof or metal flashing? Over time, rust can form, particularly in damp or coastal environments. Look for reddish-brown streaks or bubbling paint. You can:
- Scrub rusted areas with a wire brush
- Apply a metal primer
- Repaint with a rust-resistant coating
This not only improves appearance but also prevents long-term corrosion and structural weakening.
3. Gutter Cleaning and Inspection
Blocked gutters are a major cause of roof and water damage in UK homes. If water overflows, it can back up under the roofline or soak into your property’s walls.
Clean your gutters thoroughly in autumn (after leaf fall) and spring to remove:
- Leaves and twigs
- Sludge and moss
- Bird nests or other obstructions
Check the downpipes, too, and ensure all fixings are secure. If you spot damage or sagging, get it repaired before it leads to bigger issues.
4. Remove Debris From the Roof Surface
Leaves, sticks, and moss can cause more harm than you’d think. They trap moisture against the roof, damage shingles, and provide a breeding ground for algae and pests.
Keep your roof clear by:
- Using a soft broom or leaf blower
- Trimming overhanging branches
- Installing leaf guards in problem areas
Removing debris also allows you to spot signs of wear better and helps prevent blocked gutters.
5. Moss and Algae Growth
While moss might add ‘cottagecore’ charm, it’s one of the biggest threats to your roof’s longevity. Moss traps water and spreads between shingles, eventually lifting and breaking them. Algae, though less damaging, creates dark streaks and can also degrade roofing materials over time.
How to deal with it:
- Apply a moss and algae treatment (avoid high-pressure washing, which can damage tiles)
- Install zinc or copper strips along the ridge; rainwater washes down tiny amounts of metal that inhibit moss growth naturally
6. Detecting Leaks Early
A leak doesn’t always show up as a drip from the ceiling. Check the inside of your loft or attic space for:
- Dark or damp patches
- Mould or mildew smells
- Water staining on timber or insulation
- Light shining through the roof (a clear sign of holes)
Catching a leak early can prevent damage to your ceilings, walls, electrics, and furniture. It’s always cheaper to act early than to repair water damage later.
7. Cracked Mortar or Caulking
Inspect the mortar around:
- Chimneys
- Flashings
- Ridge tiles
- Skylights or dormers
If the mortar is cracked, crumbling or missing altogether, moisture can quickly seep in. Repointing or resealing these joints helps maintain a watertight barrier. If you’re not comfortable working at height, let our skilled roofers in Shrewsbury handle the job safely.
8. Snow and Ice Damage
In parts of Shropshire, heavy snowfalls can still cause problems during winter. The weight of snow can strain your roof, particularly flat roofs, and lead to sagging or even collapse if left unchecked.
Winter roof care tips:
- Use a snow rake (from the ground) to remove thick build-up
- Check after a thaw for signs of leaks or drips in the loft
- Ensure gutters and downpipes are clear to prevent ice dams
Insufficient insulation can also cause heat to escape through the roof, melting snow unevenly and increasing the risk of water ingress.
9. Check Roof Ventilation
A properly ventilated roof space:
- Prevents moisture build-up
- Reduces mould growth
- Helps maintain energy efficiency
- Extends the life of roofing materials
Make sure vents in the soffits or ridge are unobstructed, and check insulation levels to avoid condensation problems in winter.
Bonus Tip: Review Your Insurance Cover
Periodically review your home insurance policy to ensure roof damage is covered. Some policies exclude storm damage for older roofs, while others may not cover gradual wear and tear. Documenting your maintenance (photos, receipts, inspections) can help should you ever need to make a claim.
Common Roofing Mistakes to Avoid
Even well-meaning homeowners can make costly errors when maintaining their roof. Here’s what to avoid:
- Walking on the roof: This can damage tiles and is unsafe without proper equipment.
- Using pressure washers: They can lift shingles and blast away protective granules.
- Ignoring minor issues: Small cracks or damp patches rarely fix themselves; they only get worse.
Professional Roof Inspections
While twice-yearly checks are great for spotting obvious issues, we always recommend a professional roof inspection every one to two years, especially for older properties or before buying/selling a home.
A qualified roofer can identify:
- Hidden water damage
- Structural concerns
- Improper flashing or ventilation
- Signs of past DIY bodge jobs
Trust the Roofing Experts in Shrewsbury
At Cooper & Williams, we’ve been helping homeowners across Shropshire maintain and repair their roofs for nearly 50 years. Whether it’s a minor roof repair, a full flat roof replacement, or preventative maintenance, our skilled and friendly team will deliver professional results every time.
We’re proud to be a family-run business, built on trust, reliability, and quality craft.
Are You Ready to Protect Your Roof?
Don’t wait for a major leak or repair bill to start thinking about roof maintenance. Stay ahead of problems with these simple checks, and let Cooper & Williams handle the hard work when you need expert help.
