The Essential Winter Roof Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners

In Britain, winter is the ultimate test for your home's roof. Months of relentless rain, freezing temperatures, high winds, and even snow can turn a tiny, unnoticed issue into a major, expensive problem. A little proactive maintenance in the autumn can save you a great deal of stress and money down the line.

Preparing your roof for winter isn't a chore; it's an essential act of protection for your most valuable asset. This simple checklist is designed to help homeowners across Surrey and Hampshire identify and address potential problems before the first frost sets in.

Your Pre-Winter Roof Maintenance Checklist

Follow these five steps to ensure your roof is ready to handle whatever the winter weather throws at it.

1. Clear Gutters and Downpipes

This is the single most important task on the list. Gutters filled with autumn leaves, moss, and debris will block the flow of water. When it rains heavily, this water will overflow, running down your brickwork and potentially seeping into the roof eaves, causing rot. In freezing temperatures, blocked water can turn into "ice dams," which can force moisture up under your roof tiles.

2. Conduct a Visual Inspection (from the Ground)

You can spot many common problems safely from your garden or the street. Grab a pair of binoculars and scan the entire surface of your roof. Look for:

• Any tiles or slates that are obviously cracked, slipped, or missing.

• Crumbling cement mortar along the ridge line (the peak of the roof).

• Any visible signs of damage or wear.

3. Check the Flashings

Lead flashing is the metal sheeting that creates a waterproof seal around joints in the roof—typically around chimneys, vents, and in roof valleys. Check that it is lying flat and that there are no visible tears or gaps where water could get in.

4. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches

If you have trees close to your house, look for any large branches that are hanging directly over your roof. In high winds, these can sway and scrape against the roof tiles, causing abrasive damage. In the worst-case scenario, a heavy branch could break off under the weight of snow and cause significant impact damage.

5. Inspect Your Loft or Attic Space

After the first heavy autumn rain is a great time to check inside your loft. Turn off the lights and look for any dark streaks on the underside of the roof or damp patches on the insulation. This is the earliest sign that a small leak has started, even if it hasn't yet shown on the ceiling below.

DIY vs Calling a Professional: Know Your Limits

Safety must always come first. While some tasks are suitable for a confident DIYer, others should always be left to a professional.

• Safe for DIY: Trimming small, easily accessible branches, cleaning gutters on a bungalow or ground-floor extension, and performing all visual checks from the ground.

• Call the Professionals for: Any task that involves using a ladder or getting onto the roof. This includes repairing tiles, clearing high-level gutters, or fixing lead flashing.

Book a Professional Winter Roof Inspection

The easiest way to ensure your roof is fully prepared for winter is to have it professionally checked. Our team at Surrey & Hampshire Roofers can perform a thorough inspection, spotting issues you might miss and providing you with complete peace of mind.

Book your pre-winter roof health check today. We'll ensure your gutters are clear, your tiles are secure, and that your home is ready for the months ahead.