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The Benefits of Thermal Roof Coating

Our Thermal Roof Coating will improve the appearance of your roof and make it last longer. 

This specialised roof coating provides many benefits to the householder, including waterproofing,  enhanced thermal efficiency and boosting your home’s kerb appeal. 

Thermal Roof Coating is part of our five-stage solution to keep your roof in pristine condition for years to come. 

YOU CAN READ ABOUT THERMAL COATING AND THE FIVE-STAGE SOLUTION HERE

Saving energy with our thermal roof coating

Volatile energy prices are making us all look for ways to reduce the costs of keeping our homes warm in the colder months and cool in the summer.

 

Thermal roof coatings play a dual role, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home regardless of the season. 

 

In hot weather, the advanced formula coating we use will reflect solar heat away from your roof, keeping the building cooler. Air conditioning costs will be reduced, and your home or business will remain at an appropriate ambient temperature, even on hot days. 

 

When the temperature drops, the thermal glaze will reduce heat loss from your home. When combined with adequate insulation, the thermal coating will help keep your central heating needs to a minimum, reducing overall energy usage and costs.

Cutting back on fuel costs is good for your bank balance and the planet, as it decreases your building’s overall carbon footprint.

Advanced Thermal Roof Coating Can Make Your Roof Last Longer

Applying a thermal roof coating can slow the deterioration of your slates or tiles over time, delaying the need for a replacement roof. 

 

The coating’s reflective nature can protect against extremes of temperature and the absorption of damaging UV rays. 

 

The waterproofing inherent in the coating prevents the growth of lichen, moss and algae – all of which cause damage to the roof over time. 

By minimising the effects of these environmental aggressors, the Improve A Roof Thermal Roof Coating can preserve the quality of your roof for years to come.   

Improving your Home’s Kerb Appeal

One of the most off-putting features of a roof can be colonies of moss and lichen, which discolour the slates and tiles. 

An anti-fungicidal wash always precedes the application of the coating to deter these pests.

In addition to keeping your roof pristine, the coating itself can enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal. Our roof coatings come in a variety of attractive shades of terracotta, mocha, red/brown, anthracite, and green. You can use our visualiser here to see how our Thermal Roof Coating could complement your property. 

 

Improve A Roof Thermal Roof Coatings

Our Thermal Roof Coating could make your home more environmentally efficient and improve the longevity of your roof, saving you money on both energy costs and roof replacement. 

 

We are so confident that our customers will receive significant benefits from Thermal Roof Coating that we are happy to offer a 10-year guarantee. 

 

Our Macclesfield-based team provides Thermal Roof Coating in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

 

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

Posted in Site Index |

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Cool Roofs

If your house is uncomfortably hot during heatwaves you may like to consider the advantages and disadvantages of installing a ‘cool roof’. 

Standard roofs absorb heat, as you will know if you enter your roof space on a hot day. The thermal mass this creates heats your home considerably. Opening windows and doors may help, but if this is not an option, you may reach for an energy-hungry fan or air conditioning unit. 

Cool roofs keep your roof and the rest of your home cooler by absorbing less heat. This type of roof is designed to reflect heat from the sun back into the atmosphere and away from your home. The effect is achieved using highly reflective sheets or paint on the slates or tiles of the roof. 

Cool roofs may sound like a simple solution, but you must consider a complicated equation of costs and benefits before deciding if one is right for you.

The Advantages of a Cool Roof

A more comfortable home environment

Cool roofs are more comfortable in hot weather. Temperature fluctuations during the day and night will be reduced, and a cooler, stable temperature will become the norm.

Reduction in energy costs

At one time, most of us only saw an air conditioning unit when we went on holiday to hotter countries. However, AC units are now commonplace in UK businesses and shops, and the residential market is developing, too. By maintaining pleasant conditions in hot and humid weather with a cool roof, you can avoid the energy expense – and noise – of an AC unit or electric fan. 

Benefits to the environment

As discussed above, your cool roof can save energy and lower your carbon footprint, but if widely adopted, cool roofs could also have powerful benefits for the wider environment. 

The ‘Urban Heat Island Effect’, where air temperatures are higher in cities and built-up areas, is caused by buildings absorbing heat.  

High temperatures in urban areas increase the demand for energy to run air conditioning units in large sealed buildings like office blocks and apartments. However, evidence also suggests that high air temperatures contribute to global warming and raise the risk of flooding. 

Longer lasting roofs

Expansion and contraction during high-temperature fluctuation strain the material used in your roof, leading to faster deterioration. Keeping your roof cooler will delay this effect and could increase its longevity.

The downsides of Cool roofs

Installation Cost

Cool roofs require specialised coatings and reflective paint, which are relatively new to the market and, therefore, still more costly than traditional roofing materials.

Not appropriate for colder parts of the UK 

Although the whole of the UK is considered a temperate climate, the weather conditions vary considerably between the south-east of England and the North of Scotland. In colder parts of the country, the absorption of solar heat may be advantageous, as it can reduce heating costs in the winter. 

Aesthetics

Cool roofs look different, and the light-coloured paint and reflective appearance may be jarring to some, especially in a residential area or a traditional house. 

The risk of condensation

Installers must incorporate extra ventilation when building cool roofs, as they can be prone to build-up and mould problems. 

Next steps

Whatever type of roof you have, it is essential to maintain and keep it clean.

 

The Improve a Roof cleaning and inspection service will keep your roof in top condition and identify problems like moss colonisation and damaged tiles before they affect its energy efficiency.

 

We are based in Macclesfield and provide roof cleaning services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

 

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

Posted in cool roofs, roof cleaning |

Preparing Your Roof For Summer

We all look forward to summer, but it doesn’t always bring the balmy, warm weather we hope for and preparing your roof for summer is essential.

Summer in the UK can be cool and wet, with extreme heat waves often bringing high humidity. All these are challenging conditions for your roof.

So, how can you prepare your roof for summer? 

Keep an eye on your tiles 

In 2022, the UK experienced temperatures of over 40 degrees centigrade for the first time. High temperatures are often followed by torrential rain, and these extreme weather events seem set to become more common. This is bad news for homeowners, as heat stress and water damage are common causes of roof problems.  

The rapid expansion of tiles and other roof structures, followed by contraction as temperatures drop at night, can cause tiles to crack. Damaged tiles should be replaced immediately, as they can allow leaks into your roof space when the next summer deluge comes along.

Regular roof inspections can keep you up-to-date on the state of your roof and alert you to any tiles that need replacing. 

Watch out for mould, moss and algae growth 

Lichen growth

Lichen and moss can damage your roof

These roof invaders thrive in the humid conditions often created during our warm, wet summers. Algae, lichen and moss frequently colonise roofs together, especially in areas shaded by trees. 

Not only do these colonies look unsightly, but the layers of organic growth trap water like a sponge. The collected moisture can seep into the roof, causing mould to grow and rotting the wooden structures. 

Moss tends to spread under the tiles. As the moss grows and expands with retained water, the tiles are pushed up and loosened, allowing water to penetrate. Algae produce potent chemicals that can damage your tiles. 

If moss, algae and lichen are allowed to grow unchecked on your roof, they could prevent the roof from cooling, creating mildew problems in your attic and upper storey. 

Large colonies also provide an ideal environment for germinating plant and tree seeds. 

Our cleaning service will keep your roof sparkling clean and free from damaging organic growth.

Keep gutters and downpipes clear

The heavy rains in Spring and Summer may be challenging for your gutters and downpipes, particularly if you haven’t had time to clean them thoroughly after Autumn’s falling leaves. 

Nesting birds may even have found a family home in your gutters in the Spring, and it is essential to clear this debris as soon as the birds have abandoned their nest. 

Any organic matter in your gutters may be packed with seeds that will spring into life as soon as the longer, warmer days of the growing season arrive.  

We advise clearing gutters and downpipes regularly throughout the year to ensure water can quickly exit your roof. 

Cut back tree branches

You should never allow tree branches to overhang your roof at any time of year, but Summer can be particularly hazardous. 

A branch in full leaf is heavier than the dry twigs of winter, and intense Summer storms can cause branches to break and fall onto your roof, often resulting in significant damage.  

Leaves are also a threat to clean gutters, and their shade encourages moss, lichen, and algae growth.

Contact Improve a Roof for help in protecting your roof

Roofs are dangerous places at any time of year so why not bring in the professionals for all your roof cleaning and refurbishment needs?

Improve a Roof is based in Macclesfield, and our team provides roof cleaning and inspection services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE SERVICES OFFERED BY IMPROVE A ROOF HERE

 

Posted in Site Index |

What’s New in Roofing for 2024?

New technology, such as self-healing thermoplastics and solar roof panels, the drive for more sustainable building materials, and the search for exciting designs all shape the roofing industry just as much as other sectors. 

Housebuilders and homeowners are increasingly looking for roofs that offer aesthetic appeal and sustainability in response to climate change and rising energy costs. With the introduction of new ideas and technologies, tomorrow’s roofs promise to be functional, money-saving, and visually striking.

Let us explore some of the current trends, such as green roofs and solar panels, and possible future innovations, like self-healing roofs and smart roofs. 

READ MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES FOR ALL TYPES OF ROOF HERE

Green roofs

The installation of green roofs incorporating vegetation, often low-maintenance sedum, has been a developing trend for a few years. 

Already popular for use in limited areas like shed roofs and flat-roofed areas on buildings, the benefits of green roofs or living roofs mean they are set to become more common on larger roof areas, too.  

Green roofs not only enhance the visual appeal of your home but also contribute significantly to the environment. They promote local biodiversity and provide a habitat for insects, bees, and birds.

Green roofs offer extra thermal and sound insulation, reducing energy consumption and noise pollution. They also protect the roof and your home from the chilling effects of cold winds.

During heavy rain, the vegetation and the substrate in which it is planted absorb rainwater and prevent the roof drainage system from overflowing.

Solar panels

Solar panels

Solar panels

Solar roof panels are gaining popularity in the UK, with over 183,000 installations in 2023. Homeowners are drawn to the fact that these panels can generate heat and electricity, leading to substantial reductions in their energy bills. This not only saves money but also contributes to a cleaner environment with minimal carbon emissions.

If your panels generate more energy than you use, you can sell the excess to the National Grid. 

Solar tiles are a new entrant into the UK market.  Although less obtrusive than solar panels, tiles still need to be more efficient at generating electricity from solar energy. As technology advances, solar tiles are bound to be improved and become a feature of our homes. 

High-performance roofing materials 

Self-healing roofs 

We may soon enter the era of self-healing roofs.

Extreme weather conditions, which are becoming more common, can damage virtually all traditional roofing materials. Homeowners often feel they are fighting a losing battle against cracking tiles, UV damage, and colonisation by moss and fungi.  

However, material scientists are now developing self-healing thermoplastics, allowing roof surfaces to heal damage from hailstones and other environmental threats. 

Thermoplastics are in a constant state of flux. The polymers in the material separate when exposed to high temperatures and sunlight. The polymer molecules create new bonds as the temperature cools in the evening. Scuffs, dents and scratches on the surface of the roof are resealed. 

This constant repair process keeps the roof’s surface smooth and strong. Leaks are reduced, and there are fewer scratches to collect spores and allow moss and algae to grow. 

Hail resistant roofs

Materials scientists are also solving the problem of hail damage on roofs. Hailstones cause extensive roof damage worldwide as the force of these icy particles can cause cracks and splits in many roof materials. 

Roof tiles that incorporate special polymers allow the tiles to flex with the impact of hailstones. This flexibility reduces the cracks that lead to so many roof maintenance problems. 

Weather-resistant technology will increase the longevity of your roof.

Smart roofs 

The advent of smart roofs brings a new level of convenience and safety to homeowners. 

WiFi-connected roof sensors can now detect leaks and blocked downpipes, providing early warnings and preventing potential damage. 

Ventilation is essential for a comfortable home, and temperature-activated sensors will soon be able to open roof vents to release trapped heat and then close them to protect against rain and cold. 

Contact Improve a Roof for roof cleaning and refurbishment

Smart roof technology and designed materials may be just around the corner, but for now, your roof will still need to be cleaned and maintained.

Our Macclesfield-based team provides roof cleaning and inspection services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

 

Posted in Site Index |

Should I Repair or Replace My Roof?

A weatherproof roof is essential to keep out the cold and rain, but should you replace or repair it if your roof fails to do its job? 

A new roof costs between £3000 and £18000, so it is not a decision to be taken lightly. Saving into a new roof fund is a great idea, but unfortunately, few of us have the foresight or disposable income to do this, and the replacement cost can be hard to find.

The temptation is to patch things up, but does this always make financial sense in the long run?

Budget can be a big issue, but you should consider the following factors when deciding whether to repair or replace your existing roof.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE SERVICES OFFERED BY IMPROVE A ROOF HERE

The age of your roof

old roofs need maintenance

Nothing lasts forever, and most roofs have a life expectancy of between 10 and 15 years. The deterioration of materials due to weather exposure and time means that every roof will eventually need replacing. However, you should check the warranty if you have major problems with a roof less than ten years old. Many roofing companies guarantee workmanship for at least ten years and some roofing materials for even longer. Serious roof issues without a damaging event like an extreme storm or tree fall may point to poor installation, and in this case, the householder shouldn’t have to bear the cost of replacing the roof.

The extent of any damage

Catastrophic events like a freak storm or a tree falling onto your roof will require an expensive replacement of part or all of your roof. Your insurance company should cover the cost. 

However, if high winds blow off a few slates or tiles, then a roofer should be able to replace these for you without breaking the bank. In this case, it is essential to have the work done as quickly as possible so that water doesn’t get into your home through the gaps in the roof and cause internal damage that will cost more to repair. 

Our roof cleaning and refurbishment service is a good way to keep your roof in good condition. We can also alert you to any damage that cannot be seen from ground level.

The materials used in your original roof

A properly installed slate roof can last for over 100 years and will just require new slates to be fitted as needed. Other types of tile, like clay, metal, or concrete, can last about forty years.

Flat felt roofs usually have the shortest life span, but an EPDM flat roof will last for fifty years. The rubber membrane is highly resistant to UV radiation, ozone, alkali rains, and temperature extremes.

Of course, the tiles are just one part of your roof, and the best slate tiles will last far longer than the other parts of the roof structure – or even the rest of the house. If the wooden frame of your roof begins to fail, the roof will start to sag and replacement will probably be the only option.

Any type of roof needs routine inspection and maintenance and inspection to make it last as long as possible.

How long do you plan to stay in the house?

If you plan to move on soon and know your roof is a problem, a replacement roof could put your property in a different price bracket.

A roof that shows signs of extensive repairs may concern buyers who may suspect a major issue is being patched over. 

Finding materials that blend in with the original roof may become difficult as your roof ages. New tiles will always look different, and a mismatched effect may detract from your house’s visual appeal.

If you are in your forever home, then you may like to invest in a new roof to give yourself peace of mind. 

Alternatively, you could maintain your existing roof for as long as possible with regular repairs.

Contact Improve a Roof for help in protecting your roof

We are based in Macclesfield, and our team provides roof cleaning and inspection services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

 

Posted in Site Index |

How to Prevent Wind Damage to Your Roof

Gales are notorious for causing damage to property, and with Storm Ciaran bringing gusts of 86 miles per hour to the British Isles in 2023 and high wind incidents predicted to increase, it is time to make your roof as windproof as possible.

 

If you are wondering how to prevent wind damage to your roof and the rest of your property, we have some top tips on how to minimise potential damage.

Routine maintenance

 

It is always essential to keep your roof in good condition by regular inspections and maintenance. Caring for your roof will extend its life and make it ready for adverse conditions. Check regularly for loose or cracked tiles and flashing and mend them speedily. High winds can send loose tiles flying, damaging your roof but also causing injury or further property damage at ground level. You may find Improve a Roof’s inspection service helpful to assess your roof’s condition.

Protect your roof from wind damage

Control the environment around your roof

Overhanging tree branches are a risk in high winds. The wind may throw them against your roof or, indeed, break the branches off, sending them crashing into your tiles. Trimming branches back is always good practice anyway, as falling leaves can easily block the gutter. 

Keep your chimney in good condition

Many UK houses retain chimney stacks and pots even though the chimney is no longer used. If you still have chimneys on your roof, it is essential that the brickwork and mortar are in good condition. Chimneys are extremely heavy structures, and if a high wind brings all or part of your chimney down, serious damage could be caused. 

Pay attention to any weak points

Soffits, fascia, and eaves can be weak points on your roof. High winds can loosen or break them. 

More dramatically, extremely high wind from the right direction could take advantage of weak connections and lift the roof from the supporting walls. Storm straps and hurricane straps can make a roof structure more secure. 

Install a wind-resistant roof

If you are not in the market for a new roof, this may be a step too far, but it is worth knowing that metal roofs are considered the most wind-resistant. They also survive flying debris better than tiled roofs, although they may suffer a few dents. 

Secure loose items

Your home and garden are probably full of everyday items that could cause damage or be broken if picked up by a speedy gust. 

Patio furniture, garden tools and plant pots can all break windows and doors if they become airborne, so it’s best to put them away or secure them if there is a severe wind warning. 

Make sure windows and doors are closed

A strong wind could wrench an open door or window off its hinges. Pay particular attention to large garage doors, which could cause considerable damage if blown off. 

In hurricane conditions, open windows and doors allow high winds into properties at an incredible velocity which could quite literally raise your roof. 

Contact Improve a Roof for help in making your roof windproof

Without the right equipment and experience, it can be dangerous for homeowners to get up on their roofs to check their condition. It is always best to leave hazardous jobs to the professionals. 

We provide roof cleaning and inspection services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES HERE

 

Posted in Site Index |

Five Most Common Roof Problems

Your roof is your home’s shield against the external environment, protecting everything beneath it. However, like every part of your house, roofs are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Identifying common roof problems early can prevent costly damage and ensure the longevity of your home. 

Improve a Roof are the experts in keeping roofs sparkling clean and alerting the homeowner to roof issues. We have made a list of the five most common roof problems we see and how to tackle them. 

 FIND OUT MORE ABOUT IMPROVE A ROOF HERE

Leaks

Ruined wallpaper, mould on the ceiling and peeling paint are all telltale signs that you have a problem with your roof that is causing water to leak into your home. Addressing leaks promptly is crucial to prevent structural damage and unhealthy mould growth within your home. 

Rooftops

Leaks are a symptom of other roof issues and can occur for various reasons, including damaged lead flashing, cracked tiles, or improperly installed roofing membranes. Finding the source of the leak can be a challenge, as water may travel some way along rafters and beams before dripping into the interior of your home.

It is best to contact a professional roofing company to inspect your roof properly to pinpoint exactly where the water is coming in.  

Cracked or missing tiles

Roof tiles or slates are the armour plates of your roof structure, protecting your home from the elements. Damaged, loose or missing tiles compromise your roof’s integrity and leave it vulnerable to further damage from strong winds and rain. 

Loose or broken tiles may be torn off by the wind, and any gaps will leave the underlying roofing materials vulnerable to water infiltration, which can lead to leaks and structural damage. 

Regular inspection and maintenance will find issues and allow you to replace damaged or missing tiles and slates before significant problems develop.

Poor ventilation

Your roof protects you from the cold but must still allow for a healthy amount of air exchange between interior space and the outside environment.

Inadequate ventilation can lead to moisture buildup in the roof space, leading to rotting wood, mould growth and deterioration in the entire roof structure. 

In addition, poor ventilation can result in higher energy costs as hot air becomes trapped in the roof space, making it more difficult to regulate indoor temperatures. 

It is important to ensure that roof vents are not blocked when roof insulation is being installed and that pests such as squirrels haven’t caused a build-up of material at the side of the roof space that is preventing air exchange. 

If the problem is ongoing, it is possible to install ridge vents, soffit vents, or attic fans to improve airflow and prevent moisture-related issues.

Failed flashing

Malleable lead is typically used for flashing on UK roofs. It is installed around features such as chimneys, vents, and skylights to create a watertight seal and prevent water penetration between different parts of the roof structure. 

Over time, flashing can become loose, corroded, or damaged, compromising its effectiveness. When flashing fails, water can seep into the gaps between roofing materials, causing leaks and water damage. 

Inspecting flashing regularly is important; replacing damaged sections can help maintain a watertight seal and prevent costly repairs.

Standing water

Standing water collects on flat roofs or roofs with a gradient insufficient to allow water to run off. If organic debris collects, the water can become stagnant, encouraging mould and bacteria growth.

If left long enough, standing water will weaken roofing materials, potentially leading to structural damage. 

Flat roofs should always have a slight gradient to allow drainage. If this has been compromised by a build-up of leaves, for example, the problem of standing water can be easily solved by clearing and cleaning the roof. Blocked gutters and downpipes often contribute to the problem as they prevent rain from draining off the roof. 

Our cleaning service can help to keep any type of roof clean and clear of fallen leaves and other environmental debris. 

How Improve a Roof can help

Our cleaning service will keep your roof free of debris that could block ventilation vents or prevent roof drainage. 

While we are up there, we will survey your roof and spot any issues like broken tiles or slates, allowing you to sort out our problems before they cause costly damage to your home.

Contact Improve a Roof for help in protecting your roof

We are based in Macclesfield, and our team provides roof cleaning and inspection services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

Posted in Site Index |

How to Protect Your Roof Against Snow and Ice

The weather in the UK often changes after Christmas, with plummeting temperatures replacing the storms of Autumn. This doesn’t mean you can take your eye off your roof, though, as a big freeze can cause as much damage as any other kind of weather.   

A few simple precautions to protect your roof against snow and ice should get your home through January and February unscathed.

We are always ready to offer you advice and roof care, whatever the weather. 

 FIND OUT MORE ABOUT IMPROVE A ROOF HERE

How can ice and snow damage my roof?

Protect your roof against snow and ice

Even in the mainly temperate climate, your roof could be damaged in several ways by a sudden blast of snow and ice:

Meltwater freezing into ice dams 

If snow falls into your gutters or eaves, it may freeze, creating an ice dam which prevents meltwater drainage. Water will always find a way, and meltwater can seep under slates and into your roof space. 

A frozen blockage in your gutters will prevent drainage and keep damaging meltwater on the roof for longer.

The expansion and contraction of the ice

Ice contracts and expands as the temperature changes, and this change in mass can cause tiles to loosen and crack, allowing water to penetrate the roof structure, causing all sorts of problems inside your property. 

The extra weight on the roof

Large quantities of ice and snow can be heavy. A total collapse is unlikely in the UK except in extreme circumstances, but the extra weight could put a strain on the load-bearing structures in your roof.

How can I protect my roof from ice damage?

Salt your roof 

If you have advance warning of severe conditions, it may be a good idea to put a little salt on accessible parts of your roof and around gutters. Salt lowers the freezing temperature of water, and this precaution could prevent the formation of ice dams, ensuring that water can drain off your roof. 

Insulate your roof space

 A poorly insulated roof space will allow warmth to leak through the roof, rapidly melting large quantities of fallen snow. If conditions are still freezing, the meltwater will freeze again in the colder conditions of your gutters and downpipes, causing the above-mentioned problems. 

Repair roof damage promptly and clean out gutters

Cracked slates and blocked gutters and downpipes will worsen the problems caused by ice and snow. 

You could consider using our experienced team to inspect your roof regularly to find damage before it becomes difficult and expensive to repair. A roof inspection will identify signs of deterioration in your slates, flashing and seals. 

Clear away heavy snowfalls before they melt

It is sensible to do this, but this suggestion comes with a warning. Professional companies like Improve a Roof have the tools, skills and experience to clear roofs safely. It is always best to leave roof height work to the professionals but even more so in snowy and icy conditions. 

Contact Improve a Roof for help in preparing your roof for snow and ice

We provide roof cleaning and inspection services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

Posted in Site Index |

Pros and Cons of Removing Your Chimney

Chimney stacks have been an integral feature of our roofs for centuries, but most are now redundant as central heating has become the norm. Some people choose to take their chimney stack down, simplifying their roofline and making maintenance easier. 

However, removing your stack, the bit of your chimney visible above the roof level can be a big and expensive job. Before you make a decision, it is worth considering the pros and cons of removing a chimney.

Starling on a chimney

 

Three great reasons to  remove your chimney 

Save on maintenance costs

Chimney stacks need to be well maintained. Crumbling brickwork and mortar could cause leaks or worse. An unstable chimney stack could fall and cause damage to your property and potentially to life. Removing the stack means that the costs of inspections and repairs can be avoided in the future.

Simplify your roofline

Removing chimney stacks can make a building look more contemporary and give a cleaner, sleeker appearance to your roofline. 

You could make better use of your simplified roofline and the extra space up there by installing solar panels to reduce your energy costs.

Make better use of space

Many people choose to remove not just the chimney stack but the chimney breast that often runs up the whole height of a building. Doing this requires a specialist builder, but it could create valuable extra space on all the floors of your home, from the cellar to the attic. 

Three equally good reasons to keep your chimney 

Maintain the original appearance of your home

Chimney stacks are architectural features that are part of the historical character of buildings, and removing them may affect the overall aesthetic of your home. If you live in a protected period property or a conservation area, you may be prohibited from making such a dramatic change to the appearance of your home.

Preserve your property’s value

Potential buyers of your home may be chimney stack fans who prefer the original design of your house. A lack of stacks could decrease the value of your property.  

Any significant change to the structural integrity of a building, like removing a chimney stack or chimney breast, must be done by qualified experts. A bodge job will have an impact on your home’s resale value.

Retain the functionality of your fireplace

Open coal fires may be a thing of the past, but many homeowners love their wood-burning stoves. Removing the chimney deprives future owners of a flue for their stoves and of the opportunity for a cosy fire. Homes with working chimneys have an advantage during power strikes or outages, as homeowners can use their fire for warmth.

 

So the decision to take down the chimney stacks from your roof or even your entire chimney breast involves weighing various factors, including aesthetics, maintenance considerations, structural issues and the consequences of your design when you come to sell your property in the future.

With or without chimneys we can keep your roof in excellent condition when you use our roof refurbishment and cleaning service

Contact Improve a Roof for all your roof issues

Without the right equipment and experience, it can be dangerous for homeowners to get up on their roofs to check the condition of their chimney stack. It is always best to leave hazardous jobs to the professionals. 

We provide roof cleaning and inspection services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

 

Posted in Site Index |

The Benefits of a Professional Roof Clean

Many of our delighted customers love the look of their roof after our wash and refurbish service, but the benefits of a professional roof clean are more than skin deep.

Your roof will look new after thoroughly cleaning all tiles and other surfaces. Regular cleaning may also improve the longevity of your roof structures.

 Why not try our Five-Step Roof Cleaning Process, an excellent way to care for your roof? 

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES HERE

The five-step cleaning process

Our team are all experienced roofing professionals with broad experience in cleaning and refurbishing all types of roofs. 

Step One

A complete inspection and assessment of your roof. 

Our cleaning process is more than just a quick wash and brush. We can be your eyes on your roof, inspecting places that cannot be seen from the ground. If we find any leaves or branches, we will remove them.

Step Two

Turbo washing of your roof.

This thorough cleanse will remove all debris and organic matter from your roof. Damaging moss and lichen buildup will be washed away. Gutter clearing can also be part of this process. 

Step Three 

The team will identify and replace broken or slipped tiles. They will also check on the condition of the mortar in the roof’s ridges, valleys and hips and repair it where needed.

Step Four

Anti-microbial and anti-fungicidal treatment.

benefits of a professional roof clean

Many homeowners don’t realise how damaging moss and lichen can be to their roofs.

Not only do these growths look unsightly, but left unchecked, they can damage your roof.

Moss, in particular, acts like a sponge on your top, preventing rainwater from draining away. Water stays on your roof for longer, potentially causing the wooden structures of your root to rot. The sponge-like moss can also grow under tiles, forcing them upwards, loosening them and creating space for water to leak into your roof. 

Step Five 

The final stage is for the same thorough cleanse to be applied to your gutters, fascia & soffits. External window frames and panes can also be cleaned to a shine. 

Keeping your roof clean

More and more customers are choosing to have their roofs treated with a highly concentrated microbiological biocide treatment. This prevents the regrowth of moss, lichens and other fungi by killing their spores, preventing them from germinating. The treatment impregnates the tiles and is activated by rainfall.  It can be a stand-alone treatment, but we also offer it with our waterproof thermal roof coating. 

Thermal roof coating has energy-saving properties, but it also provides water-resistant protection to the surface of your roof. Rainwater drainage is speeded up, meaning that organic debris and pollution particles are removed from your roof quickly,  keeping your roof clean and clear. 

Why can’t I clean my own roof?

We strongly advise you to hire a professional roof cleaning service to clean your roof. 

Roofs are dangerous places for the inexperienced, and water application makes the situation even more hazardous. 

In addition, roof tiles are fragile and can easily be damaged with over-enthusiastic treatment. 

We have the correct cleaning equipment and know how to protect our colleagues, ourselves and your roof. 

How Improve a Roof can help

We are based near Stockport, and our team provides roof cleaning services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.

Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 or complete our online form here for a free, no-obligation quotation.

 

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About Us

We are a family run business offering Thermal Roof Coating and Roof Cleaning. We are based in Hazel Grove, Stockport and we have more than 30 years experience in the home improvement industry.

Improvearoof LLP

Contact us

Improve A Roof
97 Macclesfield Road
Hazel Grove
Stockport SK7 6DT
Open Mon – Sun 8am – 8pm

Freephone: 08000 469686

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