Winter can be tough on roofs across the UK, especially here in Stoke-on-Trent where cold, wet and changeable weather is common. As temperatures drop and rainfall, frost and snow increase, your roof can face several issues that may lead to leaks, structural damage, or costly repairs if not addressed early.
1. Ice Dams and Frozen Gutters
Ice dams form when heat escapes through the roof, melting snow which then refreezes at the eaves and gutters. This prevents water from draining properly and can force moisture back under roof tiles, causing leaks and damp inside your property.
Prevention Tip: Ensure your loft insulation and ventilation are adequate, and keep gutters clear before winter arrives.
2. Blocked or Overflowing Gutters
Gutters often become blocked with leaves, moss and debris during autumn. When winter rain or snow arrives, water cannot drain correctly and may overflow onto walls, soffits and foundations, increasing the risk of damp and damage.
Prevention Tip: Regular gutter cleaning and inspections can prevent costly water damage during winter.
3. Condensation and Poor Ventilation
Warm air rising from inside your home can condense in cold loft spaces if ventilation is poor. Over time, this moisture can lead to mould growth, timber rot and reduced insulation performance.
Prevention Tip: Make sure roof vents are clear and airflow in the loft space is not restricted.
4. Damaged Roof Tiles and Flashing
High winds, frost and temperature changes can loosen or crack roof tiles and damage flashing around chimneys and vents. Even small gaps can allow water to penetrate your roof during heavy winter rainfall.
Prevention Tip: Arrange a professional roof inspection to identify and repair damage before it worsens.
5. Heavy Snow Build-Up
Although heavy snowfall is less common, when it does occur it can add extra weight to your roof. Flat and low-pitched roofs are especially vulnerable to strain caused by snow accumulation.
Prevention Tip: If snow builds up excessively, seek professional advice rather than attempting to remove it yourself.
6. Freeze and Thaw Damage
Repeated freezing and thawing can cause roofing materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks, weakened seals and general wear over time.
Prevention Tip: Quality materials and timely repairs help protect your roof from long-term winter damage.
Professional Winter Roofing Services in Stoke-on-Trent
If you notice leaks, damp patches, missing tiles or overflowing gutters this winter, it’s important to act quickly. Small problems can quickly become expensive if ignored during harsh weather.
Low Cost Roofing Stoke provides reliable roof repairs, inspections and maintenance to keep your home protected throughout the winter months. Contact our experienced team today for a free quote or expert advice.
Manual removal is controlled and low-risk when done carefully.
Use a soft-bristle brush or plastic scraper.
Work from the top of the roof downward to avoid forcing debris beneath tiles.
Avoid wire brushes and aggressive tools that remove protective coatings.
2. Low-Pressure Rinsing / Soft Washing
Soft washing avoids the damage that high-pressure jet washers can cause.
Use a garden hose or a professional low-pressure system for rinsing.
Rinse gently to remove loose material without driving water under tiles.
If required, use a roof-safe cleaning solution and follow the product instructions.
3. Biocidal or Moss-Killing Treatments
For stubborn or recurring growth, a targeted treatment can help prevent regrowth.
Apply after removing the bulk of moss for best penetration of the treatment.
Protect surrounding plants, gutters and drainage from runoff.
Follow manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines when using chemical treatments.
Prevention — Make It Less Likely to Come Back
Trim overhanging trees to increase sunlight and airflow across the roof.
Keep gutters clean to prevent moisture buildup along roof edges.
Install zinc or copper strips near the roof ridge; ions released by these metals can help inhibit moss and algae.
Schedule periodic roof inspections to catch early growth before it becomes a problem.
What to Avoid
Some common approaches do more harm than good:
Do not use a pressure washer on tiled or slate roofs — high pressure can crack tiles, strip coatings and force water under the roof covering.
Avoid wire brushes which can permanently scratch or erode tile surfaces.
Do not apply chemicals carelessly — uncontrolled runoff can damage plants and drainage systems.
Don’t work without proper safety gear — roofs are slippery and falls cause serious injury.
When to Call a Professional
DIY cleaning is possible for small, straightforward jobs, but professional help is often the safer and more effective option when:
The roof is steep, wet, fragile or difficult to access.
Moss or algae cover a large area or are deeply established.
You have an older, heritage or brittle roof where damage risk is higher.
You want a long-term solution that includes removal, treatment and prevention measures.
Professionals bring the right equipment, methods and safety precautions to clean without damaging your roof and to reduce the chances of regrowth.
Final Thoughts
Moss and algae affect more than appearance — they trap moisture, accelerate wear and can lead to costly repairs if ignored. Choose gentle, roof-appropriate cleaning methods, take preventative steps and call a professional when the job is beyond a simple DIY task. With the right care, your roof will last longer and keep protecting your home effectively.
Get Help from Low Cost Roofing Stoke
If you’d like an assessment, a safe professional clean, or advice about prevention, get in touch:
Your garage roof plays a crucial role in protecting your vehicle, tools and stored belongings from the elements. Over time, exposure to rain, frost, wind and UV rays can wear it down — often long before you notice obvious damage. By spotting early signs, you can avoid expensive repairs and prevent the problem from spreading.
1. Visible Cracks, Splits or Holes
Cracks and splits are common signs that your garage roof is reaching the end of its lifespan. Flat roofs, felt roofs and older tiled roofs are especially prone to this kind of deterioration.
Hairline cracks in felt or bitumen
Tears caused by weather or falling branches
Small holes allowing water to seep in
If left untreated, these small openings can expand quickly, leading to leaks and structural damage.
2. Water Stains or Damp Patches Inside the Garage
One of the earliest and most reliable signs of roof trouble is moisture appearing inside your garage. Look for:
Dark patches on the ceiling
Damp streaks on walls
Mildew or mould growing in the corners
These signs usually indicate water entering through the roof covering or around the edges.
3. Sagging or Uneven Roof Areas
A sagging area often suggests water is pooling on the roof, weakening the structure below. Flat roofs are particularly susceptible to this issue.
A noticeable dip in the roof surface
Ponding water after rainfall
Visible soft spots when gently pressed
Ignoring these signs can lead to structural failure or major repairs.
4. Peeling or Blistering Roof Surface
Blisters and bubbles on the roof’s surface often occur when moisture becomes trapped under felt, asphalt or rubber membranes.
Raised bubbles under the surface
Loose or peeling sections of felt
Soft, spongy patches underfoot
These blisters eventually crack, allowing water to enter freely.
5. Damaged or Missing Roof Tiles (for Tiled Garage Roofs)
If your garage roof is tiled, inspect it visually from a safe distance for any broken, loose or missing tiles.
Cracked tiles
Tiles that have slipped out of position
Gaps where tiles have fallen off
Even a single missing tile can expose the underfelt and lead to damp or leaks inside the garage.
6. Rusting on Metal Roofs
Metal garage roofs can last for many years but are vulnerable to rust if their protective coating wears away.
Orange or brown rust patches
Flaking paint or protective coatings
Corrosion around fixings and screws
Rust weakens the metal sheets, eventually creating holes and leaks.
7. Excessive Moss or Algae Growth
Moss and algae thrive in damp conditions and can signal hidden moisture problems. On felt and tiled roofs, moss can lift edges and trap water.
Thick moss patches
Green or dark algae streaks
Moss growing around joints and edges
If moss is spreading quickly, it could indicate the roof is holding moisture or degrading.
8. Guttering Problems Around the Garage
Sometimes the issue isn’t the roof surface itself but the drainage system around it.
Blocked gutters causing water to spill over
Loose or broken gutter brackets
Downpipes not draining properly
Overflowing water can damage the edges of your garage roof and seep into the structure.
When to Call a Professional
Early signs of roof damage should never be ignored. A quick repair today is far more affordable than a full roof replacement later. Professional roofers can assess the extent of the damage, recommend the best repair method and ensure the garage remains safe and weatherproof.
If your garage roof is old, leaking, sagging or showing any of the signs above, getting an expert inspection is the best next step.
Garage Roof Repairs in Stoke-on-Trent
Low Cost Roofing Stoke specialises in repairing and replacing all types of garage roofs, including felt, EPDM, tiled and metal systems.
By checking your garage roof regularly and acting quickly when early signs appear, you can avoid major damage and prolong the roof’s life. A little attention now can save a lot of money and protect what matters inside your garage.
Winter can be a beautiful time of year, but it can also wreak havoc on your roof. Here in Stoke-on-Trent, we’re no strangers to snow, ice dams, and strong winds. If you’re worried about your roof this winter, Low Cost Roofing Stoke-on-Trent is here to help.Emergency Roof RepairOur emergency roof repair service is available 24/7 to address urgent roof problems like leaks, wind damage, and fallen trees. Don’t let a winter storm leave you exposed to the elements. We’ll be there quickly to assess the damage and get your roof repaired.Ice Dam RemovalIce dams can form along the edges of your roof, causing serious damage by backing up water under the shingles. Our experienced roofers can safely remove ice dams and prevent them from forming in the future by improving your attic ventilation.Snow RemovalHeavy snowfall can put a strain on your roof, especially if it’s wet and heavy. If you’re concerned about the weight of snow on your roof, we offer safe and professional snow removal services. We’ll remove snow without damaging your roof.Attic VentilationProper attic ventilation is essential for preventing ice dams and moisture buildup in the winter. Moisture in your attic can lead to mold growth, rot, and even structural damage. We can assess your attic ventilation and make recommendations for improvement.Roof InspectionThe best way to avoid winter roof problems is to be proactive. A regular roof inspection from Low Cost Roofing Stoke-on-Trent can help identify potential problems before they become serious. We’ll inspect your roof for signs of damage, wear, and tear, and give you a peace of mind heading into winter.Don’t let winter weather damage your roof. Contact Low Cost Roofing Stoke-on-Trent today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you keep your home safe and sound all winter long!
Can you cope on a wet and windy night in Stoke? Your roof needs to and homeowners need roofing materials that can stand up to challenging weather conditions. Slate has become one of the most trusted roofing choices in Britain — and for good reason.
1. Outstanding Weather Resistance
Slate is naturally resistant to the elements, making it an ideal choice for the unpredictable UK climate. Unlike some modern materials, slate does not warp, rot or absorb large amounts of water. This helps it remain intact even during heavy rainfall, frost and high winds.
Highly resistant to water and moisture
Unaffected by freeze–thaw cycles
Stays stable during sudden temperature changes
2. Exceptional Durability and Longevity
Roofs made from quality slate can last well over a century. Because slate is a natural stone, it is incredibly strong and much longer-lasting than many manufactured roofing alternatives.
Typical lifespan: 80–120 years or more
Minimal wear even after decades of harsh weather
Less likely to crack, split or deteriorate
For homeowners looking for a “fit and forget” roofing option, slate is one of the most reliable choices available.
3. Resistant to Moss, Algae and Fungal Growth
The UK’s damp climate encourages moss and algae, but slate’s smooth, dense surface makes it much harder for growth to take hold. This helps keep the roof looking cleaner and reduces the need for frequent maintenance.
Less surface moisture retention
Lower risk of moss-related tile lifting
Longer intervals between cleanings
4. Excellent Wind Performance
Storms and high winds are commonplace in the UK, particularly in coastal and exposed areas. Slate’s weight and method of installation give it superior wind resistance compared to many lighter roofing materials.
Less likely to lift or blow off
Secure fixing methods improve stability
Ideal for areas with strong seasonal storms
5. Fire-Resistant and Environmentally Friendly
Slate is a fire-resistant natural material, providing an added layer of safety for you and your home. Because it is entirely natural, it also has a low environmental impact compared to synthetic roofing products.
Non-combustible material
No chemical treatments needed
Long lifespan reduces material waste
6. Aesthetic Appeal with Timeless Beauty
Slate roofs are admired not just for performance but also for their appearance. Their rich texture and natural colour variations enhance both modern and traditional homes. Slate’s classic look also adds value to a property.
Attractive natural finish
Complements heritage and contemporary homes
Available in a variety of shades depending on the region
7. Low Long-Term Maintenance Costs
Although slate roofs may cost more initially, they save homeowners money in the long run. Because slate is so durable, there are fewer repairs, fewer replacements and significantly less ongoing maintenance compared to other roofing materials.
Lower repair frequency
Longer-lasting underlayment
Less vulnerability to weather-related damage
Is a Slate Roof Right for Your Home?
If you want a roofing option that can withstand everything the UK weather throws at it, slate remains one of the strongest contenders. Its durability, natural resistance and long lifespan make it a smart and long-term investment.
However, slate should always be installed by an experienced roofer due to its weight and specialist fixing requirements.
Professional Slate Roofing in Stoke-on-Trent
At Low Cost Roofing Stoke, we specialise in the installation, repair and maintenance of slate roofs. Whether you’re considering upgrading your existing roof or need expert advice, we’re ready to help.
Slate roofing is one of the few materials that combines beauty, durability and exceptional weather resistance — making it perfectly suited to the UK’s varied climate. With proper installation and occasional maintenance, a slate roof can protect your home for many decades to come.