Introduction
A leaking roof is more than just an inconvenience — it’s a signal that your home’s first line of defence is under threat. While some leaks are obvious and easy to repair, others seem to return time and again, causing stress, structural damage, and unwanted repair bills. If you’re in Ollerton, Nottinghamshire, and your roof leak keeps coming back, you’re not alone.
At Ollerton Roofing Repairs, we regularly tackle the root causes of recurring roof leaks. This article outlines five of the most common culprits and offers professional insight into how each one should be properly fixed.
Key Takeaways
- Persistent leaks often stem from overlooked or incorrectly repaired issues
- Early identification and proper fixes prevent long-term damage
- Hiring experienced roofers ensures thorough, lasting results
1. Damaged or Missing Roof Tiles
One of the most frequent causes of roof leaks is broken, cracked, or missing tiles. Strong winds, frost, and general wear can cause tiles to loosen or fracture, leaving gaps for rain to penetrate.
How to Fix It
- Carry out a full roof inspection to identify affected tiles
- Replace broken or missing tiles with like-for-like materials
- Check adjacent tiles and underlay for hidden damage
Even one damaged tile can allow water to spread into the roof structure, so it’s vital to act quickly.
2. Faulty Flashing Around Chimneys or Roof Valleys
Flashing is the metal or leadwork used to seal joints where different roof sections meet — such as around chimneys, skylights, or valleys. Over time, flashing can warp, lift, or corrode, allowing water to seep underneath.
How to Fix It
- Remove the old or loose flashing
- Install new, securely fixed flashing that follows the roof profile
- Seal joints using appropriate weatherproof materials
A good fix ensures water is properly diverted, not just sealed.
3. Blocked or Faulty Guttering
If your gutters or downpipes are blocked or leaking, water can back up and overflow onto your roof or walls, seeping into weak points.
How to Fix It
- Clear out debris and check for blockages in the entire drainage system
- Repair or replace sagging or leaking gutter sections
- Ensure water is flowing freely away from the property
Regular maintenance can prevent long-term water issues.
4. Poorly Sealed Roof Penetrations
Pipes, vents, satellite dishes — any object that punctures the roof must be sealed properly. Over time, sealant can deteriorate, allowing water to enter around these fixtures.
How to Fix It
- Remove the old sealant and flashing around the penetration
- Install new flashing collars or boots suited to the fixture type
- Apply durable, weather-resistant sealants for added protection
Done right, these repairs should last well beyond the next storm.
5. Ageing Roof Structure
Sometimes, the issue is simply that the roof has reached the end of its natural life. Worn-out underlay, brittle tiles, and fatigued timbers all lead to chronic leaks — especially during heavy weather.
How to Fix It
- Conduct a full roof assessment to determine overall condition
- Consider partial or full re-roofing using updated materials
- Reinforce or replace structural elements as needed
When patching stops working, it’s time to invest in a lasting solution.
Conclusion
Persistent roof leaks are not just annoying — they’re a clear signal your roof needs attention. Whether the cause is a few broken tiles or a deeper structural issue, the key is professional diagnosis and high-quality repair.
At Ollerton Roofing Repairs, we’ve helped countless homeowners across Nottinghamshire put an end to recurring leaks with dependable, long-lasting solutions. If your roof keeps letting you down, it’s time to get it sorted properly. Contact us today for expert advice and a leak-free future.
Call us on: 01623 700 885
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