At this time of the year, householders sometimes find out that their garage roof that they thought was sound is in fact leaking. Puddles of water may appear on the garage floor, or they may realise that whatever is stored in the garage is getting damp each time it rains. If left this can result in expensive repairs needing to be carried out to the structure of the garage roof as the roof timbers will be affected so it is important once the issue is found that swift action is taken.

It is sensible to get a roofing company or a builder to inspect the roof to see what the damage is. It may be that the roofing felt has blown up and then it is a simple job to reattach it again or it could be that over time the roofing felt has deteriorated any will need replacing. If this is the case then the decision will need to be made about what type of roofing material to replace it with.

The cheapest option is to simply have the roof re-felted as this is the commonest material it is relatively simple to do. An alternative roofing material that is becoming popular because of its long lasting qualities is a rubber membrane roof. Most companies state that this material will last for about fifty years whereas the traditional felt roof may only last ten years. Although more expensive the rubber roof alternative is a worthwhile investment for any householder.

Many buildings have areas where a flat roof has been used, this may be over a garage or an outbuilding or it could be part of your main roof. If fitted and maintained properly then there’s no reason why your flat roof should give you any problems. However, over the years the felt that is used to cover the roof can deteriorate and that’s when problems can occur. The roofs can last a long time however they will usually need some sort of repairs after about 15 years, so if you’re moving into a property with a flat roof you may want to get it checked.

Some problems to look out for are things like pooling. This is when rainwater doesn’t come off the roof into the gutters but instead sits on the roof in pools causing potential damp issues.

If you see signs of vegetation growing such as moss or weeds this is usually an indicator that there could be a damp issue also.

Over time the material covering the roof can lift, crack or blister, leaving the roof exposed to the elements and causing long term damage, get these things looked at and fixed early really is the key to maintain a good solid flat roof.

A conservatory roof might seem like a fairly standard option: a glass or polycarbonate covering, which is noisy, prone to damage and leaking, and that might feature an old rooflight that lets in a considerable amount of draughts. Did you know, though, that there are more options than you might think for your conservatory roof. You can go for a tiled conservatory roof instead, which will give you a whole host of benefits, and will look much more modern as well (something that is important for lots of people who are looking for ways to upgrade their conservatories). If you are hoping to find the best option for your conservatory, it needs to be modern, stylish, and work for you as well on a practical level, then tiling could very much be the way to go. It is the choice that many people are making as they upgrade their conservatories and start to think about their long-term options for their homes.

So how do you go about replacing your current conservatory roof with a modern tiled roof? Here, you can learn about how to get a new conservatory roof that will last you well into the future and will stand the test of time.

Choosing a New Conservatory Roof: Finding Your Best Options

For many people, tiled with be the best option because of the aesthetics, the insulation and the advanced technology that goes into a modern day tiled conservatory roof. However, some people also choose polycarbonate and glass roofs that use solar materials, so there will not be the issue of glare and it will not get as hot inside. This means you can keep the glass roof look if this is what you prefer.

A tiled roof is a more permanent option, though, making your roof look like that on the rest of your home. Suddenly, your conservatory is transformed into a versatile space that can be used as an extension, in any way you wish, not just as a conservatory. You will no longer have to content with poor insulation and glare, and the ceiling will look like that in any other part of the home – smoothly plastered for a modern appearance. You can also use it to fit any light fixtures you want, just as you would any other ceiling.

With your conservatory roof, you will be able to choose:

• Lightweight tiles of your choosing
• The internal and external finish
• Different types of insulation

The roof will be fully ventilated so there is no risk of condensation. It will also be able to support the weight of window cleaners easily, giving you more options when getting windows cleaned.

You should always consult with a specialist roofing company that deals with conservatory roofs in particular. They will be able to give you further information and advise you on the best options. Check their guarantees (tiles should usually be guaranteed) and ask them about all of the different choices you can make to update and personalise your conservatory.

Rooflights are versatile and are often used in both residential and commercial settings, with different requirements and considerations needed for each. Commercial roofs and properties can easily be fitted with complementary rooflights that will add light, openness and even value to the property, going a long way to improve the interior.

What kinds of rooflights are most often used to suit commercial spaces?

1. Barrel vaults. Longer rooflights like these can span a large roof area and prove to be good value for larger spaces, allowing more natural light penetration without the need for multiple individual rooflights.
2. Flat glass or polycarbonate rooflights. There are many trade brands and models that are perfect for installation into commercial roofs, with or without upstands or builders kerbs.
3. Access hatches. Commercial spaces need to be practical and an access hatch is certainly this. It can be used for stairway or ladderway access to the roof as well as being an attractive rooflight.

Flat roofs can have a bad reputation for leaking, getting damaged and generally not being as sturdy or stable as a pitched roof. However there is no need for a flat roof to be any lesser quality than a pitched roof, as long as the roof is high quality and has been properly installed.

An older flat roof will often need to be replaced if it is leaking, or has holes or damage that could lead to leaks in the future. Modern flat roofing materials are far superior to older ones, so this is a good option in the long run. The initial cost will still allow the opportunity to save money, as there won’t be the high cost of repairs, potentially as an emergency if the roof is leaking, has become unstable or is unsafe. New flat roofs that are installed by professionals can be very hardy and durable.