When a repair isn't enough
Most roofs can be patched for a while. The trouble comes when you're paying for a repair every winter and the leak simply moves to a different spot. That usually means the problem isn't one broken tile — it's the whole system underneath wearing out together.
Signs a re-roof is worth considering include:
- Tiles or slates slipping in several places, not just one.
- Daylight or damp patches showing through the loft.
- Old bitumen felt that has torn, sagged or crumbled.
- Battens that are soft, split or no longer holding nails.
- A roof covered in spray foam that's hiding the structure.
If you're not sure, ask. Plenty of roofs only need targeted roof repairs, and we'll say so if that's the case.
What a full re-roof includes
A proper re-roof starts from the rafters up. We strip off the old covering, battens and felt, check the timbers, and then build the roof back up with modern materials:
- New breathable membrane laid over the rafters to keep water out and let moisture escape.
- New battens, correctly spaced and fixed for the tile or slate being used.
- Tiles or slates laid and fixed, with ridges and verges finished to suit.
- Leadwork around chimneys, abutments and valleys, so the joins are as watertight as the main slopes.
While the scaffold is up it's often sensible to look at the roofline too. New fascias, soffits and guttering fitted at the same time saves putting up access twice.
Tiles or slate on West Country homes
Around Taunton and the Somerset Levels you'll see everything from clay pantiles and plain tiles to natural slate and concrete interlocking tiles. Each has its place. Concrete tiles are widely used and practical on many modern houses. Clay suits older properties and keeps the local character. Natural slate is common on Victorian terraces and cottages and gives a crisp, traditional finish.
The right choice depends on the pitch of your roof, the weight the structure can carry, what the neighbouring houses look like and, in conservation areas, what the planners expect. We'll talk you through the options that genuinely suit your house rather than steering you toward one product.
How a re-roof runs on site
Once you've accepted the written quote, we'll agree a start date and arrange scaffolding. On the first days the old roof comes off and the timbers are checked. If anything needs attention it's raised with you there and then. The new membrane and battens go on next, followed by the tiles or slates, the leadwork and the ridge.
We keep the site tidy as we go, sheet the roof if the weather turns, and finish with a full clear-up and waste removal. Jason oversees every job himself, so there's always someone you can speak to who knows exactly where things stand.
What changes a quote
No two roofs cost the same, which is why we don't give prices over the phone. The main factors are the size and pitch of the roof, the covering you pick, how much leadwork and chimney repair is involved, how easy access is for scaffolding, and the condition of the rafters once the old roof is off.
You'll get a free written quote after a site visit, laid out clearly so you can compare it with others. We cover domestic and commercial roofs across Somerset and Devon within about 50 miles of Taunton. Call 07399 680142 or send us your details to arrange a visit.