Properly constructed tiled roofs will last at least 80 years before requiring major repairs; slate roofs even longer — certainly well over one hundred years. The problem is, most houses in the UK are at least this old. Across Britain there is an epidemic of roof problems — and there is only so long you can put off the inevitable.

Luckily, Timperley Roof Repairs don't only repair roofs. Our roofing operatives are experts in assessing the condition of existing roofs and making informed decisions as to how much needs to be replaced. If the basic structure is OK, then the replacement work can be confined to new sarking, battens and tiles or slate.

If the roof is very old or the original timbers were not quite substantial enough for the roof span, then sagging rafters and ridges may be the problem. This means either or both of the following remedial works: (1) replace or strengthen sagging rafters or (2) install a purlin to help support all the rafters.

You can often judge for yourself the general condition of your roof and how substantial any repairs might need to be. This image shows an example of failing battens and a couple of rafters sagging and the consequential affect on the roofline.

Two 'dimples' can be seen in the middle of the roof span. They appear as a slightly darker areas. It can also be seen that, as the roof sags, the gaps between the slates become wider. This is most visible on the right side of the picture where slates supported by the party wall have retained position while those to the left have begun to slip into the dip in the roof. The good news is that the ridge line still remains straight so only the failing few rafters and all the battens will need to be replaced. Though when the slates are removed it would be a good idea to strengthen all the other rafters with side splints.