Winter in Barnsley doesn’t go easy on roofs. Wind blows in from the foothills of the pennines, battering homes across the area. Rain lashes against properties, and when temperatures drop, snow settles thick on rooftops, adding extra strain.
What does this mean for homeowners? It’s important to stay vigilant.
Unless there’s a major weather event like Storm Éowyn or Storm Isha, roof problems tend to start small. A loose tile, a clogged gutter, a hairline crack – issues may not look like much at first (or even be visible for that matter). But without attention even the smallest issues can escalate. For example, a small leak caused by a loose tile can lead to ongoing damp, structural damage and costly repairs. But it doesn’t have to.
Here’s how to spot the warning signs early:
1. Check the loft after heavy rain
The first sign of trouble often hides in the loft. After a storm, grab a torch and take a look. Here’s what to look for:
- Damp patches on beams or insulation.
- Light coming through the roof.
- Musty smells. A damp loft often smells like old newspapers. If you notice that, check for leaks.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure, touch the insulation. Dry insulation feels fluffy. Wet insulation feels clumped together.
2. Look for damp patches on ceilings and walls
A leaking roof doesn’t always show in the loft first. Sometimes, the damage appears inside. Barnsley’s older homes, like the Victorian terraces in Park Grove and the town centre, are especially vulnerable as they tend to hold moisture.
Signs of a problem:
- Yellow stains or discolouration on ceilings. Even a small leak leaves marks so look closely.
- Peeling wallpaper.
- Cold, clammy air in certain rooms.
Pro tip: If wallpaper peels in vertical strips or paint bubbles in patches, moisture is likely coming from above. If it’s peeling at floor level, the problem could be rising damp instead.
3. Inspect your roof from the ground
A quick inspection from ground level can sometimes tell you a lot about the condition of your roof. Look for:
- Missing tiles.
- Cracked tiles.
- Lifted ridge tiles. These are the first to go in strong winds.
Pro tip: Binoculars help. Stand at a distance and scan for anything unusual, like dark patches, uneven tiles or loose flashing.
4. Check the chimney and flashing
From rows of red-brick stacks in historic neighborhoods to charming stone cottages in the outskirts, Barnsley is full of chimneys. They’re charming and functional but time and weather wear them down. Flashing cracks, mortar crumbles and soon enough, water finds its way inside.
Watch for:
- Flashing that’s loose, rusted, or cracked.
- Gaps in the mortar between bricks.
- A chimney that leans.
Pro tip: Get down on your knees and peer inside if you have an open fireplace. Damp soot or a musty smell could mean moisture is seeping in through chimney cracks.
5. Keep gutters clear
Blocked gutters cause more trouble than most people realise. Water can overflow, seep into brickwork and weaken walls. Moss, leaves and twigs pile up fast, especially in homes that have large garden spaces or are located near woods.
Signs of trouble include:
- Water spilling over the sides of gutters.
- Gutters visibly sagging under weight or pulling away from the roofline.
- Icicles forming along the edges.
Pro tip: A long-handled brush makes clearing gutters easier. If you’re not keen on climbing ladders (which can be especially dangerous in the winter) hire a professional. Clearing them keeps water flowing where it should. It’s a simple job that prevents major repairs.
6. Look for roof debris on the ground
After a storm, check driveways, gardens and pavements for the following:
- Broken tiles scattered on the ground.
- Bits of mortar near the chimney.
- Loose granules washed into drains.
Pro tip: If you find multiple tiles in your garden after a storm, check with your neighbours. Wind often carries roof debris from one house to another.
7. Look for ice build-up on your roof
Frosty mornings make Yorkshire look picture-perfect. But ice and snow cause major problems for roofs. What’s the problem, exactly? In certain temperatures snow can melt during the day, then freeze again at night. This cycle forces water under tiles, into cracks and through flashing. Over time, the process can lead to leaks.
It’s a problem in places like the Pennines and the Yorkshire Dales, where snow can settle in thick layers. Even in urban areas like Barnsley, overnight frost can build up and put stress on your roof.
Watch out for:
- Icicles forming along the eaves
- Thick snow sitting on flat roofs
- Ice building up and blocking gutters
Pro tip: Use a roof rake to clear snow if it builds up. Never use a shovel as too much force can damage tiles.
What to do if you spot damage
Yorkshire’s weather doesn’t wait, and neither should repairs. Small problems become big ones fast so it’s important to act as soon as you notice an issue. Here’s what to do if you spot damage:
- Take photos. A quick snap helps roofing specialists assess the issue.
- Stay off the roof. Slippery tiles and weak timbers aren’t worth the risk.
- Call a Yorkshire roofer. Someone who knows the weather, the homes and the best way to fix the damage is your best bet.
Stay ahead of winter roof damage with DPR
At DPR Roofing Barnsley, we’ve been protecting homes across Barnsley for decades. From Victorian terraces to stone cottages and modern builds, we understand the challenges that Yorkshire weather brings.
How DPR can help:
- Winter roof inspections. We check for loose tiles, cracked flashing, damp spots and other early warning signs.
- Emergency storm damage repairs. Fast, expert fixes for leaks, missing tiles and wind damage.
- Chimney and flashing repairs. Securing weak points before they cause problems.
- Gutter maintenance. Clearing blockages, fixing sagging sections and ensuring proper drainage.
- Full roof replacements. If your roof has seen better days, we can install a durable, weatherproof system built to last.
Don’t wait until water is dripping through the ceiling. A quick inspection now can save thousands in repairs later. Call DPR Roofing Barnsley today to book your winter roof check.