7 common roof problems Wimbledon homeowners face (and what to do)
After 15+ years working on Wimbledon roofs, certain issues come up again and again. Here's what they are, what they mean, and when to act.
1. Slipped or missing tiles
What it looks like: Visible gap on the roof, tiles on the lawn, exposed felt or underlay.
What it means: Often caused by corroded or missing nails, or storm damage.
Urgency: High if rain is forecast — felt degrades fast once exposed.
2. Crumbling mortar on ridge or hips
What it looks like: White or grey chunks falling from the roof edges.
What it means: Mortar has a 50-80 year lifespan depending on exposure. Common in 1930s-60s homes.
Urgency: Medium. If you can see daylight through the ridge, urgent.
3. Lead flashing pulled away from chimney
What it looks like: Flapping metal around chimney or roof window. Water staining on chimney breast inside.
What it means: Lead has expanded and contracted too many times, or was poorly installed.
Urgency: Medium-high once staining appears.
4. Blocked or sagging gutters
What it looks like: Water spilling over during rain, plants growing in the gutter, visible sag.
What it means: Debris, failed brackets, or insufficient fall.
Urgency: Low unless water is entering the property.
5. Flat roof blistering or ponding
What it looks like: Bubble-like raised areas, water sitting 48+ hours after rain.
What it means: Felt has lifted, or the deck has sagged.
Urgency: Medium. Flat roofs don't last forever — typically 15-25 years.
6. Chimney stack leaning or spalling
What it looks like: Visible lean, flaking bricks, exposed mortar.
What it means: Age, water ingress, frost damage.
Urgency: High if leaning, otherwise monitor.
7. Moss and lichen growth
What it looks like: Green or orange growth on tiles or slates.
What it means: Aesthetic only on most modern roofs. Can cause issues on older or felt roofs by holding moisture.
Urgency: Low on modern roofs. Do not pressure-wash — it damages the surface.
When in doubt
Get a qualified roofer to look. Most inspections are free or low-cost, and a 15-minute check can prevent thousands in damage.