Autumn is a good time to review the condition of the roof before prolonged rain, frost and winter weather put it under strain. Many minor problems can go unnoticed for months and then become more serious in wetter, colder weather. A blocked roof drain, a small crack or a damaged connection may not by itself indicate a major fault, but if it is not found in time, it can later lead to a leak or a greater need for repairs.
In both houses and apartment buildings, a deliberate, point-by-point inspection can help identify problem areas in good time before winter.
Too long; didn’t read (TL;DR)
In autumn, it is worth checking gutters, roof drains and downpipes, as well as the condition of the roof covering and waterproofing. Cracks, lifting, damaged roof covering elements or water that remains for a long time may warrant further investigation. Pay particular attention to chimneys, roof penetrations and wall flashings; for apartment buildings, it is also useful to document any defects found with photographs.
1. Start with the drainage!
Falling leaves can block a gutter, a downpipe or, on a flat roof, a roof drain. If rainwater cannot drain away properly, it can build up on the roof. On a flat roof, it is also worth checking whether water remains on the surface for a prolonged period after heavy rain.
2. Inspect the roof covering and waterproofing
On a pitched roof, a displaced, broken or missing roof covering element can be a warning sign; on an asphalt shingle roof, so can lifting or damage. On a flat roof, cracks, blistering, lifting or mechanical damage may warrant an on-site survey by a specialist.
A fibre-cement slate roof and a corrugated fibre-cement sheet roof are not the same structure, so their condition and renovation options must also be assessed separately.
3. Check vulnerable connections
Several structural elements meet around chimneys, roof hatches, vents, wall flashings and other penetrations. If there are cracks, separation or damaged seals, a more detailed inspection may be warranted.
4. Look for signs inside the building as well
A roof fault is not always first visible from above. Discolouration, dampness, mustiness or traces of an earlier leak in the loft, on the top-floor ceiling or at wall junctions can be important signs.
5. Document the condition in apartment buildings
In apartment buildings, it can be useful to record any defects found with photographs. This makes it easier to track whether a previously observed crack or area of lifting has worsened and helps provide a sound basis for deciding on repairs.
Autumn practical checklist
For the questions below, “yes” means that the item is in order, while “no” means it is worth taking a closer look.
- Are the gutters, downpipes and roof drains clean and clear?
- Is the roof covering or waterproofing free from damage?
- Are the areas around chimneys, penetrations and connections intact?
- Are there no damp patches or new signs of leakage in the loft or on the top floor?
- On a flat roof, can rainwater drain away without obstruction?
- Are the roof edges, flashings and perimeter connections intact?
Frequently asked questions
When should the autumn roof inspection be carried out?
Before prolonged frosts set in, so that there is also time for any necessary repairs.
What can you check yourself?
The condition of the drainage outlets, roof surfaces that are easy to see and signs of dampness inside the building. It is not worth climbing onto a dangerous roof surface.
Does a small crack always mean the roof needs renovating?
No. The necessary work depends on the location and extent of the damage and on the overall condition of the roof.
Why is an inspection important in an apartment building?
Because a minor fault can affect several flats, and decisions about repairs often have to be made by several parties.
Autumn roof maintenance does not necessarily mean renovation. The aim is to determine whether minor repairs or a more detailed condition survey are needed. If the condition of the waterproofing is uncertain, reviewing roof waterproofing options and arranging a professional on-site survey can help you choose the right solution.
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