3 Things to Look for When Buying a Commercial Property
Purchasing a commercial property could represent one of the, if not the, largest purchase your business will ever make. If makes sense to carry out as many checks as possible on its suitability and its structural integrity. One of the places a lot of people tend to overlook is the roof.
The roof is one of the most important parts of your building, and a damaged roof could end up costing you a huge amount in damage repair. Therefore, it is worth looking your roof over before you move in to make sure there it is structurally sound. Below is 5 key things to look for.
Water Marks
The most obvious sign that there is a fault in the roof is water damage on the walls on the upper floors/at the top. If left unchecked this can lead to damp and a whole lot of building work to clear it up.
Debris
An excess of the debris on the roof can create damage in a number of ways. Some debris can go on to create damp or rot with organisms eating away at the roofing materials. While larger physical debris can block the gutters. If nothing else, excessive debris is a sign of neglect.
Gutters
The single most common problem with commercial premises is neglect of gutter cleaning. Most commercial roofs are vast areas with generally small gutters and outlets. It is very important to keep the gutters clean as overflowing is very quick to occur if water cannot flow freely. Central gutters that overflow only flow into the building and not down the outside. Stock damage is inevitable. Summary: Keep the gutters maintained at least once a year.
If you spot any of the above issues then it is definitely worth contacting a professional roofer to take another look. Doing so, and having a proper evaluation, could have a serious effect on the potential value of the property, and also your decision to buy it or not.
To find out how DPR can help, or about any of our other services, just call us on 0113 335 0043.
Why You Should Keep Your Gutters Clear
It may not seem obvious at first, but the main purpose of a roof is not simply to provide shelter, but it is to catch and control water.
Water, when unchecked, can be extremely corrosive and damaging. Picture a stream at the bottom of a gorge. Over years that tiny stream has worn away at the surrounding land to create that gorge. Given enough time free flowing water will create a huge amount of damage.
This is why roofs are shaped as they are: so water runs down them into controlled areas. An essential, yet often overlooked, part of the roofing structure is the gutters.
After the roof has caught and controlled the water it guides it to the gutters, which then carries the water to the drainage system.
If there is anything wrong with a part of this chain then water will flow where it should not. And, referring to the point above, unchecked water will ultimately go on to create damage somewhere.
The problem is that gutters are often neglected, and seen as a minor part of the roofing system. When nothing is further from the truth. DPR often carry out work on gutters, and here are a few of the most common issues we see:
Blocked gutters – these are simply gutters that have been filled with debris. The type of debris varies from roof to roof. In residential properties we see a lot of leaves and wastage. Whereas one of our regular commercial clients work a lot with glass and their gutters are often overflowing with dust from the glass.
Broken gutters – gutters are more often than not made from plastic. While it has some brilliant properties, gutter plastic is quite brittle. This means it will crack, as opposed to warping. These cracks are obvious places in which water will escape.
Poorly installed – there is a correct way to install guttering, to ensure the water flows quickly and evenly straight into the sewer. If not installed correctly water is likely to pool and puddle, which will ultimately lead to overflow.
DPR offer both retained and impromptu guttering services. If you are experiencing any guttering issues and need a professional to look them over then don’t hesitate to contact DPR on 0113 335 0043.
Commercial Roofing For Leeds
Undertaking any roofing work can be an expensive endeavour, and so should not be something any business undertakes lightly. Therefore, it is imperative that you spend time when deciding which roofer to use.
Over the past 28 years DPR have garnered a reputation to be counted amongst the best commercial roofers in Leeds, and Yorkshire. We have a broad team of experienced engineers who enable us to tackle most jobs that come our way, whether it is missing/broken tiles, flat roofs, guttering and even internal damp issues.
When we take on a job our first step is to complete a comprehensive site survey. This entails more than just looking at the issue alone. We look at the roof and the building structure as a whole. By doing so we can get a clear picture of why the issue occurred on the first place, how to repair it, and how to go about stopping it ever happening again. It may mean that the work we carry out is larger than the initial repair but in the long run it will be much more cost effective as you will be far less likely to have any further issues.
We then send our team of engineers to carry out the work. All our engineers are fully qualified in various areas of roofing, and each have years of experience. This means that between them they have worked on every kind of roof, carrying out every kind of task imaginable. This has several advantages, but the main being that we can provide a fully comprehensive roofing service, without the need for subcontractors.
Then, we offer a maintenance service. Few roofing contractors in Leeds do this and here we have the advantage as we own a number of powered access platforms plus all staff are IPAF rained to operate them. With our maintenance service we organise a schedule with you in which we will come back and inspect the property at regular intervals. We can tailor this service to suit your needs. For example we can include gutter inspection and cleaning, if they have been particularly problematic.
DPR is a complete provider of commercial roofing services to business in, and around, Leeds. To find out how we can help you, or to enquire about any of our services, just call us on 0113 335 0043 and we’d be happy to help.
Why Do We Use Lead on Roofs?
In this modern age it seems strange that lead is still used as a roofing material. However, it has stood the test of time for good reason. Lead, as a working material, lends itself perfectly to roofing. And you’d struggle to improve on perfection.
Lead contains a few properties which makes it ideal to be used on both commercial and domestic roofs. These are:
It is flexible – lead sheeting can be pulled taut and stretched over and around odd shapes. This makes it perfect for odd joins and junctions on a rooftop. It also expands and contracts with the weather, which makes it perfectly suited for the unpredictable British Seasons.
Sealant – it’s flexible and water tight, both properties make it an excellent sealant. As it can mould to any shape it is the ideal sealant to use at joins and junctions. It can also act as a covering for guttering too, creating a 100% water tight system.
Longevity – good quality lead can last up to 3 times longer than other roofing materials. This makes it, if installed properly, a fit and forget item. This long life easily balances out the initial outlay. It is also extremely corrosion resistant, which again lends to its low maintenance and longevity.
Appearance – as lead ages it changes colour and patina, making its appearance both surprising and attractive. It can be installed on most roof types, and can be adapted to suit any roofing style; from a small country cottage to a large industrial building, if needed.
It’s green – because of its longevity and corrosion resistant properties it is one of the most recycled materials in the world, over taking aluminium and zinc. This contributes massively to lowering carbon footprints and creating a greener world.
DPR have been working with lead since we began over 28 years ago. To work with lead properly requires a specialist set of skills, which we have constantly honed in nearly 3 decades craftsmanship. To find out more about lead roofing, or any of our other services, just call DPR roofing on 0113 335 0043.
How to Locate Roof Leaks
We have often talked about the many ways in which a roof leak might occur, but we have spoken less about how to find out if you have one. A leaking roof that is obviously pouring with water is an extremely severe issue, but it is typically a rare occurrence.
Typically a leaking roof will present itself in subtler, more insidious ways. Here, DPR would like to offer up some tips on how to spot a leaking roof as soon as possible, and how to find it. The longer it is left the more damage it will be doing, and the more costly it will be to repair.
One of the more obvious signs of a leaking roof is a large and spreading damp patch that starts high on the ceiling. This is a sign that there is a gap somewhere, and water is soaking down through the walls and ceiling.
Another way of spotting a leaking roof is the onset of mould and rot in your loft. If you suspect you have a leak then carry out a close inspection of the rafters in your loft. If there is surface mould, or the beams are beginning to rot then chances are there will be water coming through from somewhere.
Finding the leak should be a relatively simple task. The thing to keep in mind is that water trickles and runs. This means that chances are the leak will not be directly over the damp/rotted patch in your roof. Instead, find the point where the water is dripping off your ceiling, then trace it back up to the point of origin. There should be a damp trail which shows where this is. Directly above this ingress we would expect to see a broken/dislodged roofing tile. Or something similar.
If you suspect you have a roofing leak, and are unsure of how to locate, or repair it, then call DPR Roofing on 0113 335 0043 to see how we can help.
DPR Carry out Huge Job in Whitby
DPR often work for housing associations who require large amounts of work to be done in one go. And recently we have been working on a row of properties in Whitby that is no exception.
Over 28 years we have garnered a solid reputation for providing high standard roofing work to commercial buildings all over Yorkshire. Because of this reputation we are often approached by housing associations to carry out work on any number of properties. Some of these associations we go on to create long standing relationships with.
This is how we ended up working on a number of prestigious properties in the Whitby Cliff area of Whitby. We were contacted by the housing association that we have worked with previously to carry out an extensive roof replacement on some extremely tall town houses.
Some of the houses we have been working on are 6 stories high. This meant that before we started anything we had to erect scaffolding to make sure we could operate safely. We have worked on some interesting sites in our 28 years, but rarely do we get the chance to offer our team of engineers a sea view as they replace a roof.
This is one of the largest jobs we have carried out on residential properties, and was fully comprehensive, and included replacing everything, including the chimney pots. At the time of writing the work is still on-going, though we hope to have it concluded soon.
If you would like to learn more about the services we provide both commercial and domestic properties just give DPR a call on 0113 335 0043.
What Are the Risks To Your Roof In Summer?
Winter has the reputation for being the harshest season for roofs. And for good reason. The heavy rainfall and low temperatures can be extremely harsh on roofs, and can lead to a whole host of issues. But that is not to say that the other seasons can’t be tough as well.
Summer provides a whole host of unique issues for roofs. If you are not aware of these issues then they could, just as easily as winter, go on to create some serious problems.
The main problem with summer is the heat. Though we don’t get as much of it as other countries it can still be enough to create problems. With extreme heat the tiles on your roof can warp, and in some cases split. In either situation, warping or splitting, it leaves a weak point which moisture can then penetrate. Come autumn and winter, when rainfall increases, the gaps that have been created will become very evident.
If you have gaps or splits in your roof in summer and we suffer from a summer storm then the consequences can be very dire. This is because of the warping that will occur to the wooden structure of your home from constant soaking and drying. The ramifications of such a thing happening are serious and obvious.
Your gutters should not be overlooked in this process. Winter is the time when most debris falls, and your gutters are most likely to become clogged. If we then have a summer storm they will suddenly become overburdened and are likely to fail. We have talked before about the kind of damage that a malfunctioning gutter system can cause.
Thankfully, summer is the perfect time to check your roof for any damage. Unlike winter, where it will be cold and miserable, and likely that your vision obscured, summer allows for unfettered views of your roof. The uniformity of roofs makes looking for any issues very easy. If there are any gaps or splits then it should be startlingly obvious. If you think you have a roofing issue then contact DPR roofing. We have over 28 years’ experience in repairing and replacing roofs on both domestic and commercial properties. To find out more just call us on 0113 335 0043.
How We Got Our Excellent Reputation
DPR Roofing has been in operation for over 28 years. During this time we have cultivated a reputation as being honest, reliable and accessible. But more importantly we are capable of carrying out high quality roof repairs and roof installations to homes and businesses all over the Yorkshire area.
As a testament to this we have carried out a large number of jobs over the spring period for some very prestigious clients, including a major Yorkshire housing association and the UK Government. We have also carried out a number of domestic jobs. Regardless of the client, we work hard to provide the best possible roofing services with a professional demeanour.
Behind everything we do is customer satisfaction. We would not be in operation after 28 years without a trail of satisfied customers behind us. Unfortunately, there are many roofing firms that don’t have the same level of professional pride as us. We have been called many times to repair or replace shoddy workmanship. We are more than happy to help in these circumstances.
Regardless of the roof type we can help. Our skilled team of engineers have worked on everything, from flat roofs with a GRP covering, to pitched roofs with slates and tiles. Now that we have got through winter, now is the time to start making repairs and shoring up to prepare for the next one.
Winter is obviously the most testing time for a roof. This is when issues like leaks and gaps start to occur. These issues can have obvious, serious, ramifications to your homes and businesses. Not least of which is the onset of damp. A notoriously difficult problem to remedy. ‘Prevention is better than the cure’ is as relevant to roofing as it is to anywhere. Now is the time to get your roof repaired and looked at, in preparation for winter.
For any more information on the roofing services DPR provides, including new roof installation or roof repairs just call us on 0113 335 0043.
DPR Install Garage Roof
2017 has been a brilliant one so far for DPR. We have worked on a number of interesting projects, including some new contracts for a new housing association with properties as far afield as Whitby, a government data centre in Lancashire and a number of train stations.
However, while commercial roofing is our forte, we also do plenty of domestic jobs too. We recently had the pleasure of giving a new lease of life to a little garage in Ackworth. The owner of the property contacted us as his garage roof was in bad shape, but the owner still needed the use of it on a regular basis. Therefore some TLC work was needed. He contact DPR who, after an initial survey, were more than happy to take on the job. We attended the property and got to work within days. We are used to dealing with large commercial roofing jobs for the most part, so this smaller domestic work was a pleasant change. We managed to turn it around in record time, and the owner is now delighted with his new roof. The owner decided to opt for a Plastisol profile sheet roof, for longevity and minimum maintenance. They also liked the appearance, a factor which cannot be overstated when the garage roof is viewable from their home, like this one is.
Our team of skilled engineers install the new roof in a matter of hours and we left the property with the owner so pleased about being able to use dry and leak free garage.
If you would like to learn more about our complete range of services to the domestic market just give us a call on 0113 335 0043.
When is the Right Time to Call the Roofers in?
We know that your roof might not be that exciting when compared with your kitchen or bathroom. However, it seems that people make the dire mistake of putting off calling a roofer until they have no other option but will readily call a plumber when even a small issue appears.
However, this is a risky attitude to have. While having no hot water may be unpleasant, if something were to go wrong with your roof it can be disastrous, even dangerous.
It is no exaggeration to say that you may eventually end up with a collapsed roof. Because of this we at DPR recommend you inspect your roof at least twice a year, ideally at the changing of the seasons. This way you can prevent issues before they happen. For flat roofs look for bubbling, warping, splitting and standing water. For pitched roofs, on the outside look for missing tiles, on the inside looks for damp patches or lifting wall plaster/paper.
If you spot any of the above then it is worth calling in a professional roofer to come and take a look at things. You may be tempted to try and tackle the problem yourself or call in a handyman, it goes without saying you will just make matters worse if there is no professional on the job as the roof is an integral and vital part of your home, REMEMBER … all that you cherish is sat underneath your protective roof covering.
If you are struggling to carry out regular inspections then this is something that DPR can carry out on your behalf. DPR have over 28 years experience, so if we take care of your roof you can rest assured knowing that it will stay exactly where it should, and you will stay dry while you sleep.
If you would like to learn more about any of the roofing services we provide, or about roofing maintenance in general then just give us a call on 0113 335 0043.