Are New Builds Up To Scratch?
DPR Roofing provides roofing services to both commercial and domestic clients across the entirety of Yorkshire. We have worked on thousands of roofs in our 28 years of service, and have been in operation so long we have started to spot small patterns emerging.
One area of roofing which straddles both the commercial and domestic sectors is new build housing. Currently there is a housing shortage in the UK, and a few schemes running to help people buy their first home. Combined, they are leading to a surge in new house builds all over the country.
While new homes are fantastic, as is people getting on to the property ladder, this surge is undoubtedly coming with a few problems.
In the rush to get homes built, and ultimately create a higher turnover and profit, corners are being cut.
In recent surveys carried out it was found that more than half of people who have bought new builds have experienced problems. One survey found that a quarter of those people had over 16 separate issues with their new home.
And these issues are not small, tilting gardens, leaking roofs, missing windows and flooding garages are amongst the issues reported.
As well as a desire for increasing profits, a lack of regulation is thought to be a major part of the issue. In some strange loophole, new house buyers have fewer rights than you would from your weekly shop. The Consumer Rights Directive, which enshrines the rights of customers, does not cover property. If any issues develop residents have to rely on a 10-year warranty insured by the NHBC or another approved warranty provider.
But in a huge number of cases, when residents complain to their home builder, their calls are simply not answered. Some people have taken matters into their own hands and have physically protested outside of the sales offices of some home builders.
So what can you do about it? Organisations such as The Federation of Master Builders are voluntary, but hold their members to the highest of standards. By using builders, or house builders, who are a member of such organisations you can be assured that they are amongst the best at what they do.
You can also:
· Research the developer online before you buy to check for negative feedback.
· Question purchasers who have moved in to completed phases of a development about their experience.
· Check which warranty provider the developer is registered with and read its consumer code.
· Ask an independent snagging company to inspect the house for flaws before completion. However, developers aren’t obliged to allow you to enter the property before the legal completion date and many don’t.
· Ensure your home and contents policy includes protection in case you have to take a developer to court.
· Appoint a solicitor early to advise on contracts such as a cancellation clause if the builder does not complete by a specified date.
· Avoid buying in June or December. Developers may cut corners to get the money before their half-yearly accounts.
· Watch out for defects that might only become evident after several weeks.
· List any defects and report them in writing as soon as possible. Non-structural defects must be reported within two years.
When working with DPR you can be assured that our work is amongst the best available. Not only does our 28 years, and positive testimonials prove this, but so does our memberships and accreditations which can be seen here.
To find out more about our services just call us on 0113 335 0043.
Slate Replacement and Gutter Clearance
DPR recently took a call from a concerned resident of Pontefract as they had noticed a slate on their roof was missing and their gutter didn’t seem to be working as it should.
We inspected the site as soon as we could after the phone call and confirmed the client’s suspicions. We could see a couple of clear points where there was a missing tile and a large section of the gutter was blocked with debris, which would stop water being removed properly.
Therefore we arranged a time for our engineers to return and carry out the necessary work.
Not long after our team arrived and erected some basic scaffolding so they could safely access the broken tiles. We removed any lingering slates pieces and made sure the underlying structure was sound before filling the gaps with new slates.
We then turned our attention to the gutters and cleared all the debris out of them. A relatively simple job we checked it after to make sure everything was functioning as it should before cleaning up and leaving the site.
This is the perfect example of tackling an issue before it gets too big. If the broken tiles had been left any longer than it is very conceivable that the roof would have eventually developed a greater issue, such as a leak. And a similar train of thought could be applied to the gutter. When uncontrolled, water can be very damaging. Blocked gutters prevent the water running where it should.
Thankfully, this was not the case this time, and the client’s roof should operate perfectly for the foreseeable future.
To find out how DPR can help you just call us on 0113 335 0043.
Commercial Roofing in Leeds
DPR Roofing have been in business for over 28 years. This longevity is down to a few things, but first and foremost is our dedication to our clients, no matter how big or small. We have provided our roofing services to commercial clients in the Leeds area since we began, and they still make up a huge part of our client base.
We supply a complete range of roofing services to all our commercial clients in Leeds. This includes, but is not limited to:
· Fascias & Soffits
· Felt & Asphalt Roofing
· Flat Rooing
· General Commercial Roof Repairs
· Glazing Bars Repairs
· Guttering, Gutter Clearing & Gutter Linings
· Lead Work
· Pipe & Duct Work
· Pointing
· Roof Light Replacement
· Roof Sheet Replacement
· Roof Tiling
· Single Ply Roofs
· Slating / Slate Roofing
When you pick up the phone to us our first step is to always come out and survey the site ourselves. By doing so we can properly assess what the issue is, why it occurred and what work needs carrying out to remedy it. After this we will give you a time frame and an estimate of costs.
The initial survey is vital, as without it chances are the issue will not be resolved. If a survey is not carried out then issues may be sorted in the short term, but it will very much be a bandage, rather than a cure.
As a commercial property owner, your roof is vital to the wellbeing of your business. If your roof develops an issue that goes unchecked the results will be disastrous. That small leak could lead to a large damp problem, and those loose tiles could lead to a hole in your roof the next time the wind picks up.
Either of these very likely circumstances would be enough to halt operations, thus costing you time and money.
If you would to do everything you can to prevent this from happening, DPR offer a maintenance service in which we come to your property at regular intervals to inspect and carry out basic maintenance work to keep your roof operating as it should.
To find out more about our commercial roofing services just call us on 0113 335 0043.
Construction Industry Growth Slows
In recent news we spoke about how growth in the construction industry is doing well, mainly being propped up by residential housing builds. But latest reports show that the growth of the construction industry is beginning to slow.
The cause of this is thought to be the uncertainty of Brexit.
Output is expected to drop due to a struggling economy, falling wages and increased expenditure. The latest figures for 2018 have been revised down from 1.2% growth to 0.7% growth, which is the slowest in 6 years.
However, since the Grenfell disaster there has been a sharp increase in output with £6.9billion being put into public housing repair, maintenance and improvements. And over the next two years the expected growth drivers are thought to be infrastructure and private housebuilding. Large scale projects such as HS2 and Thames Tideway Tunnel are predicted to offset the sharp decrease in commercial and industrial work.
On that note, the majority of the growth in construction in 2018 is expected to be propped up mainly by private house building. However, this sector is largely reliant on help-to-buy loans, which are running until 2021. But, unfortunately, even these growth figures have been downwardly revised due to the uncertainty that Brexit is providing.
Noble Francis, Economics Director at the Construction Products Association said: “Construction firms are still reporting that activity remains high and there are still lots of cranes around. But there are clear signs that construction output is slowing and that next year, in particular, will be difficult for the industry.
“Prospects for construction have been adversely affected by slowing UK economic growth and falling real wages on one side and sharp rising costs on the other. A fall in new investment, especially where it is large international investment looking for a long-term rate of return, is forecast to lead to declines in the commercial and industrial sectors.”
DPR provide domestic and commercial roofing services to homes and businesses across Yorkshire. To find out more simply call us on 0113 335 0043.
Campaign Launched to Save Summer
Specialist construction site security firm, VPS Site Security have launched a social media campaign aimed at stopping people, mainly young people, from getting hurt on derelict buildings and construction sites this summer.
Now the summer holidays are here children have got more time on their hands and a huge number will head outside to play. Amongst many other places kids will probably find their way onto construction sites and derelict buildings. However, these sites are typically extremely dangerous. Far more dangerous than most people realise.
In July, even though the holidays have only just started, one 14 year old boy has already lost his life when he fell through the roof of a derelict factory.
Using the hashtag #DontGoofOnTheRoof they aim to create awareness about just how dangerous these places are, and that they are far from suitable for young people to play on.
The campaign is not purely aimed at young people, it also serves as a reminder to tradesmen that the work they carry out on a day to day basis is extremely dangerous. Health and safety laws are in place for a reason: to make sure everyone goes home at the end of the day.
Working at height the team at DPR are constantly aware of the danger our team is in, which is why we work hard to make sure that our team is as safe as possible. This means that we have accrued a number of qualifications and accreditations in health and safety.
Something that site managers often forget is that their duty of care doesn’t just apply to the team of staff on the site, but also to trespassers. Though they are certainly unwanted, they are a reality and we must account for their presence.
DPR provide roofing services to both domestic and commercial clients in the Yorkshire area. to find out more just call us on 0113 335 0043.
Roof Maintenance Services
There are three things that are integral to ensure a long and healthy roof, that can operate without leaking or malfunctioning. These are: correct installation, high quality repairs and, most importantly, proper maintenance.
Without proper maintenance your roof will simply not function as it should. Water will flow where it should not and unexpected stresses will be put on it. This means that it is more liable to develop faults, and may ultimately fail when put under heavy burden (such as during a storm).
At DPR we have been providing a complete range of roofing services for over 28 years. When we speak to clients who have suffered due to poor roof maintenance we usually hear two reasons why their roof has been neglected. The first is a lack of time; they simply feel they don’t have time to carry out any work. The second is lack of knowledge; they do not know what they are meant to do, or how they are supposed to go about doing it.
Both are reasonable. And there is one very simple solution to this problem: outsource the work to a reputable dealer, like DPR Roofing.
As we mentioned, we have over 28 years experience, and in this time have learned what a roof really needs to function properly. This means that we can tailor our roofing maintenance services to make sure that they actually work, and you reap a real benefit from them. The services we offer include:
· Gutter clearing
· Periodic inspections on flat roofs and tiles roofing buildings
· High level inspections
· Digital imagery
But before all this starts we will always meet with you can carry out an initial survey of the roof. By doing so we can properly assess what you need and tailor our services accordingly.
If you need roof maintenance services then just call DPR on 0113 335 0043 to see how we can help.
Domestic Roofing Services
At DPR Roofing we often speak about the commercial roofing services we provide. We have provided a comprehensive range of roofing services since we began over 28 years ago. During this time we have worked on countless roofs and carried out an untold amount of repairs.
However, this is far from all we do. DPR also offer a full range of domestic roofing services, and in our 28 years have worked on thousands of homes.
The roofing services we provide include:
New Roofs
Domestic Roofing Specialists
Roof Repairs
Roof Surveys (Close up digital imagery)
Flat Roofs (Repair and New) of all types
Liquid coatings to flat roofs in high quality polymers
Leadwork (Flashings, valleys etc)
Owner/operators of powered access platforms (High Reach – cherry picker)
Chimneys – repairs – removal - repointing
Gutters renewed – repaired - resealed
In the first instance we will always visit the site to carry out a comprehensive survey. By doing so we can properly ascertain what work needs carrying out. It also enables us to give a more accurate figure on cost. Then we will agree on a date and time to carry out the work. Once that date comes round one of our experienced and fully qualified teams will come and carry out the work, weather permitting.
As well as thousands of satisfied clients, DPR can supply plenty of testimonials which speak to the quality of the work and the service we provide. We can also provide proof of our working standards through our qualifications and accreditations.
We carry a number of accreditations, which includes health and safety qualifications like SAFECONTRACTOR, as well as being members of the federation of master builders (FMB), the Property Care Association (PCA) and Trustmark (Government endorsed standards).
To find out more about our domestic roofing services just call us on 0113 335 0043 today to see how we can help you.
7 steps to protect your roof over the winter months
Winter is the most detrimental time of year for your roof. Snow, wind and heavy rain storms create huge amounts of damage to roofs across the UK every year, with this annual threat costing homeowners thousands in repairs.
To give yourself the best chance of avoiding a costly bill, we’ve listed 7 simple steps to protect your roof over the winter months.
1. Remove ice and snow
Ice and snow are hugely damaging to your roof. If left untreated they can cause severe leaks and the additional pressure could even result in collapses. Weather permitting, try to remove snow and ice as soon as possible or seek help from a roof maintenance professional. Never attempt climb on your own roof, this is highly dangerous.
2. Clean your gutters
Ensuring that your gutters are kept clean is an essential part of winter roof care. Debris such as leaves and twigs cast around by strong winds can pile up in your gutters, causing water to pool in them instead of flowing through to your drain. Once this happens the water can soak through your walls and can cause internal damage to your home which can be extremely expensive to replace.
3. Check for broken slates and tiles
One sure-fire sign that your roof is at risk of leaks is broken tiles and slates. Even the smallest crack or chip can leak with water and cost you thousands if left alone, so endeavour to repair or replace them as soon as possible.
4. Remove moss and ivy
Another hugely damaging factor to roofs is a build-up of moss and ivy. Both hold water and can result in leaks; we suggest using a product that has potassium salts or fatty acids to stop these harmful plants in their tracks and prevent them from reoccurring.
5. Check your insulation
It’s vital that you check your roof insulation regularly too. Any holes in your insulative material create a freezing temperature in your loft during winter, sending your heating bills skyrocketing. We suggest you check carefully around any vents, windows or chimneys; these are the places where holes are most likely to occur, so aim to ensure that there’s sufficient sealant around the insulation so the cold can’t get in.
6. Keep your roof clean
Flying twigs and branches whipped up by strong wintry winds can scrape or damage your roof’s tiles. To minimise the risk of this happening, we recommend you trim any overhanging trees or branches at least 3 metres away from your roof.
7. Check flashing and vents
One of the most delicate areas of your roof is your chimney and as such you should regularly check that your flashing hasn’t been dislodged or peeled away from the brickwork. Structures that penetrate your roof such as vents should also be checked on a regular basis to ensure the flashing is dressed/adhered to your roof isn’t coming away from the roof.
Need more help? For expert help and advice or to arrange a roof inspection speak to our friendly team today Call: 01484 866 772
Roofing Services in Leeds
Over the past 28 years DPR have built a reputation as being one of the best suppliers of roofing services in Leeds and the surrounding areas. There are few firms that can match us in terms of experience and service, which is why our reputation often proceeds us.
Roofing is a blend of traditional and modern. The pent roofing structure is quite traditional, but as construction has evolved so has the technologies and methods used in roofing and some roofs still use traditional materials such as clay, tiles and leadwork.
This means that your typical roofer has a blend of skills and knowledge that you don’t often see from someone that works in modern construction only. You would be very hard pushed to get a modern day roofer, armed with a multitude of skills, to repair an old clay tile roof with lead flashings etc. Head scratching is what we feel is the outcome.
DPR provide our services to both commercial and domestic clients in the Leeds area. Both commercial and domestic clients have their own challenges, but due to our experience we have adapted to tackle these challenges head-on.
After an initial phone call our first step is always to survey the site. One of our experienced surveyors will come and visit the site and inspect the roof/issue. We like to do this as it helps us to properly ascertain what the issue is, allowing us to provide a comprehensive solution and a good quotation.
After we have done this we will provide you with a quote and will arrange a date for us to attend the site and carry out the works. On that date, weather permitting, one of our teams of experienced roofers will attend the site and carry out the work booked in.
At DPR we know how disruptive roofing work can be, therefore we always carry out any roofing work as quickly as possible, though this will never be at the sacrifice of quality.
As well as a plenty of client testimonials, DPR roofing have a number of professional qualifications which can testify to the quality of the service we provide. Amongst others we carry accreditations from the Federation of Master Builders, Confederation of Roofing Contractors, The Property Care Association and Safecontractor.
To find out more about the roofing services we provide the Leeds area just call us on 0113 335 0043.
Commercial Property Maintenance
Your property more than likely represents the single greatest expense or outgoing of your business. It makes sense therefore to maintain it and keep it in good, operational condition. The requirements for each property is different, but in any case DPR can help.
DPR Roofing offers a range of roofing and property maintenance services on a retained format. What sets us apart from other suppliers is the tailored service we provide. Whereas some firms may charge you for unnecessary services, we will visit you at your property and apply our 28 years of experience in finding out what you really need.
The requirements for each organisation is different. For example, some need regular work carried out at set points during the year. Others have a more ad-hoc approach. But, as DPR is a family run organisation we can always figure something out that best suits your requirements.
We offer various services, as well as timeframes. For example we can check the roof for moving or missing tiles, clean the gutters, carry out seal checks along with basic wear and tear replacements.
However, some organisations prefer to have DPR at the ready for the first sign of roofing damage. In these instances our quick response times could very possibly save any organisation thousands of pounds in terms of the larger expense of carrying out a serious repair.
Unlike other firms we also offer high level inspections. We recently invested in a new platform that enables us to reach spots up to 15 metres away – a service few can rival.
If you live in Leeds or further afield in Yorkshire and require a commercial property maintenance service, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Our packages start from a great low price and can just give you the ultimate peace of mind on all roofing matters. For more information, please contact us today on 0113 335 0043.