Category Archives: Boards

Winter in Northern Ireland doesn't mess about. Between the howling Atlantic winds, relentless rain, and the occasional snow dump, your roof takes an absolute battering from November through March. The question isn't whether the storms will come: it's whether your roof is ready when they do.

Every year, we get calls from homeowners across Belfast, Lisburn, and Bangor who ignored the warning signs. A loose tile here, a blocked gutter there. Then one stormy night, they wake up to water pouring through the ceiling. Don't let that be you.

Here's the good news: preparing your roof for winter isn't complicated. With a bit of planning and the right professional support, you can protect your home and avoid those dreaded emergency repair bills.

Why Does Winter Hit Northern Ireland Roofs So Hard?

Our climate is uniquely challenging for roofing systems. We don't get the extreme cold of Scandinavia or the heavy snowfall of the Scottish Highlands. Instead, we get something arguably worse: a relentless combination of wind-driven rain, temperature fluctuations, and damp conditions that find every weakness in your roof.

The main culprits include:

• Strong westerly winds that lift tiles and damage ridge systems
• Persistent rainfall that exploits even the smallest gaps
• Freeze-thaw cycles that crack mortar and expand existing damage
• Blocked gutters that cause water to back up under tiles

The worst part? Most winter roof damage starts small. A hairline crack, a slightly lifted tile, a bit of moss growth. Left unchecked through autumn, these minor issues become major emergencies when the storms roll in.

Check for Loose or Damaged Tiles Before It's Too Late

Your tiles are the first line of defence against Northern Ireland's weather. One loose tile might not seem like a big deal in September, but come January, it's an open invitation for water ingress.

Walk around your property and look up. You're checking for:

• Tiles that appear lifted, cracked, or out of alignment
• Missing tiles or visible gaps in coverage
• Ridge tiles that look loose or have crumbling mortar
• Damaged or corroded flashing around chimneys and vents

Can't see clearly from ground level? That's where most homeowners get caught out. Many roof problems aren't visible from the street: they require a proper inspection from someone who knows what they're looking for.

If you spot anything concerning, don't attempt DIY repairs on a roof, especially as we head into the wetter months. The risks simply aren't worth it. Call a professional and get it sorted properly before winter arrives.

Clean Your Gutters: Seriously, Do It Now

We know it's not glamorous advice. But if we could only give Northern Ireland homeowners one piece of winter prep advice, it would be this: clean your gutters before the storms hit.

Blocked gutters cause a cascade of problems. When rainwater can't flow freely, it backs up. That backed-up water finds its way under your tiles, into your fascias, and eventually into your home. In freezing conditions, that trapped water becomes ice, expanding and causing even more damage.

Here's what happens when gutters fail:

• Water overflows and saturates external walls
• Ice dams form, forcing water under roof coverings
• Fascia boards rot and become unstable
• Foundation damage from water pooling at ground level

Clear out leaves, moss, and debris from all gutters and downspouts. Check that water flows freely through the entire system. If your gutters are damaged, sagging, or pulling away from the fascia, get them repaired or replaced now: not in the middle of a January downpour.

Inspect Your Attic for Warning Signs

Your attic tells the story of your roof's health. Before winter sets in, grab a torch and have a look around up there. You're checking for signs of existing problems that will only get worse in bad weather.

Look for these red flags:

• Water stains on rafters or insulation – indicates leaks that need addressing
• Daylight visible through the roof – obvious gaps that need sealing
• Damp or musty smells – suggests moisture problems and poor ventilation
• Mould or mildew growth – a sign of condensation issues

Proper attic insulation and ventilation aren't just about energy efficiency. They prevent the temperature fluctuations that cause condensation, ice dams, and premature roof deterioration. If your attic feels excessively hot in summer or shows signs of moisture problems, the insulation and ventilation likely need attention.

Trim Back Overhanging Branches

Take a look at any trees near your property. Are branches hanging over your roof? During winter storms, those branches become a serious threat.

Heavy rain, ice, and wind can weigh down branches until they snap. If they land on your roof, you're looking at damaged tiles at minimum: and potentially much worse. Even without breaking, branches constantly scraping against your roof surface cause gradual damage to tiles and protective coatings.

Request a tree surgeon to trim back any branches within two metres of your roof line. It's a small investment that prevents potentially thousands of pounds in storm damage repairs.

Book a Professional Roof Survey Before Winter

Here's the thing about roof problems: by the time you notice them inside your home, significant damage has already occurred. Water stains on your ceiling mean water has already penetrated your roof covering, your underlay, your insulation, and your plasterboard.

A professional roof survey catches problems before they become emergencies. Our experienced surveyors identify issues you'd never spot from ground level: hairline cracks, deteriorating mortar, failing seals, blocked ventilation, and early signs of structural movement.

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we've been helping Belfast homeowners protect their properties for years. Our comprehensive roof surveys include detailed photo evidence, defect identification, and clear recommendations for any work needed.

Don't wait until you're dealing with storm damage. Book a roof survey now and head into winter with confidence.

Create Your Winter Emergency Kit

Even with the best preparation, Northern Ireland weather can surprise us. Having supplies ready for urgent temporary repairs makes a real difference when the unexpected happens.

Keep these items accessible:

• Heavy-duty tarpaulin for covering damaged areas
• Roofing cement for emergency sealing
• A bucket and towels for managing internal leaks
• Torch with fresh batteries for attic inspections
• Contact details for a reliable local roofer

Speaking of reliable roofers: don't wait until disaster strikes to find one. Research local roofing companies now, check their reviews, and save their contact information. When you're dealing with water pouring through your ceiling at 2 AM, you don't want to be frantically searching Google for help.

If you're unsure what to look for when choosing a roofer, we've put together a guide to help you avoid common mistakes.

What If Storm Damage Has Already Occurred?

If you're reading this after a storm has already damaged your roof, don't panic: but do act quickly. Delaying repairs allows water ingress to cause secondary damage to insulation, electrics, and interior finishes.

Take these immediate steps:

1. Document the damage with photos for insurance purposes
2. Place containers to catch any dripping water inside
3. If safe to do so, cover external damage with tarpaulin
4. Contact your insurance company to report the claim
5. Call a reputable local roofer for professional assessment

Avoid the temptation to accept quotes from door-to-door traders who appear after storms. Unfortunately, these situations attract unscrupulous operators looking to take advantage. Stick with established local companies who'll still be around if problems arise later.

For more guidance, read our article on mistakes to avoid after roof storm damage.

Get Storm Ready Today

Northern Ireland winters aren't getting any gentler. The time to prepare your roof is now: not when the first November storm is battering your windows.

Your action plan:

• Inspect tiles and ridge systems for damage
• Clear all gutters and downspouts
• Check your attic for warning signs
• Trim overhanging branches
• Book a professional roof survey

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we help homeowners across Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, and throughout Northern Ireland prepare their homes for whatever winter throws at us. Our team provides honest assessments, clear recommendations, and quality workmanship you can trust.

Contact us today to arrange your pre-winter roof survey. Call the team or visit adv-group.co.uk to get started. Don't wait for the storms( be ready for them.)

Your chimney is one of the most exposed parts of your home. It sits there, day after day, taking the full brunt of Northern Ireland's unpredictable weather. Heavy rain, driving winds, and those bitter frost cycles we know all too well: your chimney deals with it all.

And yet, most homeowners barely give it a second glance until water starts dripping through the ceiling.

Here's the truth: chimneys are one of the most common sources of roof leaks in Belfast and across Northern Ireland. The culprits? Failing lead flashing, deteriorating mortar joints, and neglected chimney pots. These aren't glamorous topics, but understanding them could save you thousands in repair bills.

Let's break down what every NI homeowner needs to know about chimney maintenance: and why leadwork expertise matters more than you might think.

Why Is Your Chimney So Vulnerable?

Think about it. Your chimney penetrates your roof, creating a junction where two different materials meet. That junction is a natural weak point. Water is relentless: it will find any gap, any crack, any tiny opening to work its way into your home.

In Northern Ireland, we get an average of 157 rainy days per year. That's a lot of water attacking your chimney. Add in freeze-thaw cycles that expand and contract materials, and you've got a recipe for deterioration.

The three main failure points are:

• Lead flashing around the chimney base
• Mortar joints between bricks (repointing)
• Chimney pots and caps at the top

Ignore any of these, and you're inviting water damage, damp patches, and potentially serious structural issues.

What Is Lead Flashing and Why Does It Fail?

Lead flashing is the waterproof seal between your chimney stack and your roof tiles. It's typically made from lead sheet that's dressed into the mortar joints of your chimney and overlaps onto your roof covering. When installed correctly, it creates a watertight barrier that directs rainwater away from the vulnerable junction.

Lead is the gold standard for flashing because:

• It's incredibly durable (lasting 50+ years when properly installed)
• It's malleable and can be shaped to fit complex angles
• It expands and contracts with temperature changes without cracking

So why does it fail? Several reasons:

Poor original installation. Not all roofers have genuine leadwork expertise. Improperly dressed lead, insufficient overlaps, or incorrect fixings can cause problems within just a few years.

Age and fatigue. Even quality lead eventually fatigues. Repeated thermal cycling causes the metal to become brittle over time, leading to cracks and splits.

Storm damage. High winds can lift poorly secured flashing, and debris can puncture or dislodge lead sheets.

Mortar failure. If the mortar holding your flashing in place deteriorates, water can seep behind the lead: making the flashing useless even if the lead itself is fine.

If you're noticing recurring roof problems, failed flashing is often the hidden cause that keeps getting overlooked.

How Do You Spot Flashing Problems?

You don't need to climb onto your roof to identify potential flashing issues. Here's what to look for:

From inside your home:

• Damp patches on walls or ceilings near the chimney breast
• Water stains that appear after heavy rain
• Peeling paint or wallpaper in upstairs rooms adjacent to the chimney
• Musty smells indicating hidden moisture

From ground level outside:

• Visible gaps between flashing and chimney bricks
• Lead that appears lifted, curled, or displaced
• Missing mortar above the flashing line
• Staining or discolouration on chimney bricks (indicating water running down)

Don't wait for a full-blown leak. Damp areas on chimney breasts often signify problems that are already advanced. The sooner you act, the less extensive (and expensive) repairs will be.

Chimney Repointing: The Overlooked Essential

Repointing is the process of renewing the external mortar joints between your chimney bricks. Over time, mortar erodes due to weather exposure, leaving gaps that allow water to penetrate the chimney structure.

Why does repointing matter so much?

Cracked and crumbling mortar doesn't just look unsightly: it compromises your chimney's structural integrity. Water entering through failed joints can:

• Cause internal damp and mould issues
• Lead to spalling bricks (where the face of the brick flakes off)
• Result in chimney instability in severe cases
• Allow water to freeze inside the structure, expanding and causing further damage

In Northern Ireland's climate, this freeze-thaw cycle is particularly destructive. Water enters hairline cracks, freezes, expands, and widens those cracks. The following thaw allows more water in, and the cycle repeats until you've got significant deterioration.

Signs your chimney needs repointing:

• Visible gaps or missing mortar between bricks
• Mortar that crumbles when touched
• White salt deposits on brickwork (efflorescence)
• Loose or wobbling bricks
• Increased damp inside the property

Request a professional roof survey if you're unsure about your chimney's condition. It's far better to identify problems early than deal with emergency repairs later.

Don't Forget Your Chimney Pots and Caps

At the very top of your chimney stack sit your chimney pots: and they're exposed to absolutely everything the Northern Irish weather throws at them.

Common chimney pot problems include:

• Cracked pots that allow water ingress
• Loose pots that can become dislodged in storms
• Failed mortar bedding around the pot base
• Missing or damaged cowls and caps

Chimney caps serve a vital function: they prevent rainwater from falling directly into your flue while still allowing proper ventilation. A missing or damaged cap means water has a direct route into your chimney structure.

Cracked chimney crowns are particularly problematic. The crown is the cement top that surrounds your chimney pot, designed to shed water away from the flue. When cracked, water enters the chimney body, causing internal damage that's invisible until it manifests as damp inside your home.

Why Leadwork Expertise Matters

Here's something many homeowners don't realise: not every roofer is skilled in leadwork.

Lead is a specialist material that requires specific training and experience to work with properly. Cutting corners on lead flashing installation: using inadequate materials, improper techniques, or insufficient overlaps: leads to premature failure and recurring leaks.

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we take leadwork seriously. Our team has extensive experience in traditional lead flashing techniques, ensuring your chimney junctions are properly waterproofed to withstand decades of Northern Ireland weather.

What proper leadwork installation involves:

• Using the correct code (thickness) of lead for the application
• Properly dressing lead into raked-out mortar joints
• Ensuring adequate overlaps and step heights
• Securing with appropriate fixings
• Pointing in with suitable mortar that allows for thermal movement

Cheap repairs using inferior materials or techniques might seem like a saving initially: but you'll pay more in the long run when problems recur. If you've experienced repairs that keep failing, poor-quality leadwork is often to blame.

What Should You Do Next?

If you've noticed any warning signs: damp patches, visible deterioration, or simply haven't had your chimney checked in years: it's time to take action.

Here's what we recommend:

1. Book a professional survey. A thorough inspection will identify current problems and potential issues before they become serious. Our Belfast roof survey service includes detailed chimney assessment.

2. Address problems promptly. Small repairs now prevent major expenses later. A bit of repointing or minor flashing repair is far cheaper than dealing with extensive water damage.

3. Choose contractors with proven leadwork expertise. Ask about their experience with lead flashing specifically: it's a specialist skill that makes all the difference.

4. Consider a maintenance schedule. Regular inspections every few years can catch deterioration early, extending the life of your chimney and preventing unexpected failures.

Protect Your Home Before Winter Hits

Northern Ireland winters are hard on chimneys. The combination of heavy rainfall, frost, and wind puts enormous stress on flashing, mortar, and chimney pots. Getting repairs done before the worst weather arrives means you'll stay dry and comfortable when it matters most.

Don't wait for water to come through your ceiling. Contact Advanced Construction & Roofing today to discuss your chimney concerns. Our team serves homeowners across Belfast and Northern Ireland, delivering professional leadwork and chimney repairs that last.

Call us now to arrange your chimney inspection: and keep your home protected for years to come.

You've probably noticed it. That fuzzy green carpet creeping across your roof tiles. Maybe you've thought, "Ah, it's just a bit of moss: adds character, doesn't it?"

Here's the truth: moss on your Northern Ireland roof is quietly causing damage every single day. And in our famously damp climate, it's working overtime.

Let's break down exactly what's happening up there, why it matters, and what you can do about it before a minor nuisance becomes a major repair bill.

What's Moss Actually Doing to Your Roof?

Think of moss as a tiny, relentless sponge permanently attached to your tiles. Unlike dirt or debris that washes away, moss clings on and gets to work.

Moss roots penetrate the surface of your tiles, causing them to crack and crumble over time. It doesn't happen overnight: but it does happen. Those roots work their way into every tiny crack and imperfection, gradually breaking down the material that's supposed to protect your home.

But that's just the beginning.

As moss grows thicker, it starts to lift tiles from their seating and push underneath them. This creates gaps. And gaps mean one thing: rainwater getting where it shouldn't be.

Once water starts finding its way under your tiles, you're looking at:

• Damaged roof timbers that can rot and weaken
• Compromised insulation that stops doing its job
• Interior water damage to ceilings, walls, and belongings
• Mould growth that poses health risks to your family

The moisture retained by moss seeps into every small gap it can find. Over time, this constant dampness leads to weakened tiles, rot, and genuine structural damage that costs thousands to put right.

Why Northern Ireland's Climate Makes It Worse

Let's be honest: we're not exactly short on rain here. Belfast averages around 846mm of rainfall annually, spread across roughly 157 rainy days. That's a lot of moisture for moss to work with.

Our damp, mild climate is essentially a moss paradise. While homeowners in drier regions might go years before moss becomes a real problem, here in NI, it can establish itself and spread remarkably quickly.

The combination of regular rainfall, overcast skies, and moderate temperatures creates ideal growing conditions. North-facing roof slopes and areas shaded by trees are particularly vulnerable: they stay damp longer and give moss exactly what it needs to thrive.

And here's what many homeowners don't realise: moss doesn't just cause problems when it's alive.

When moss dies and washes off, it clogs your gutters and downpipes. Blocked gutters overflow, sending water cascading down your walls instead of safely away from your property. This creates damp problems that can affect your entire home: not just your roof.

The Freeze-Thaw Factor: Winter's Hidden Damage

Northern Ireland winters bring another threat that makes moss particularly dangerous.

When temperatures drop, the water held by moss freezes and expands. This expansion can crack tiles or make existing cracks significantly bigger. Then, when things warm up again, the ice melts: and the whole cycle repeats.

This freeze-thaw cycle accelerates tile deterioration dramatically. A small crack in autumn can become a serious split by spring. Tiles that seemed fine can suddenly start letting water through.

If you've ever wondered why roof problems seem to appear "out of nowhere" after winter, this is often the culprit. The damage was happening slowly all along: the freeze-thaw cycle just brought it to a head.

Hidden Dangers You Might Not Have Considered

Beyond the obvious tile damage, moss creates problems that aren't immediately visible.

Extra Weight on Your Roof Structure

Heavy moss growth adds significant extra weight to your roof. A thick layer of waterlogged moss across an entire roof surface weighs far more than you'd expect. This can stress the roof structure, especially on older buildings with timbers that may already be weakened by age.

In extreme cases, this additional weight can cause parts of the roof to sag. It's rare, but it happens: and it's completely preventable.

Safety Hazards

Moss makes roofs incredibly slippery and unsafe. If anyone needs to access your roof: for aerial repairs, chimney work, or any other reason: moss creates a genuine fall risk. Professional roofers know how to handle it, but it's another reason to keep moss under control.

Mould and Health Concerns

The persistent moisture created by moss doesn't just damage your roof. It creates an environment where mould can flourish. Mould spores can find their way into your home, affecting air quality and potentially causing respiratory issues for your family.

Addressing moss isn't just about protecting your property: it's about protecting your health.

The DIY Trap: Why "Just Scraping It Off" Is Risky

We understand the temptation. You see moss, you want it gone, and a stiff brush seems like an obvious solution.

Here's why that approach often backfires:

Aggressive scrubbing can damage tiles more than the moss itself. Roof tiles: especially older slate and concrete tiles common across Northern Ireland: have a protective surface layer. Scrape too hard and you remove that protection, leaving tiles more vulnerable to water penetration than before.

Then there's the safety issue. Climbing onto a moss-covered roof without proper equipment and training is genuinely dangerous. Falls from height are one of the most common causes of serious DIY injuries in the UK. Your roof isn't worth risking your health.

Pressure washers? They can force water under tiles and into your roof space, causing the exact water damage you're trying to prevent. They can also dislodge tiles and strip away protective coatings.

And even if you manage to remove the moss safely, without proper treatment, it simply grows back. Often within months. You've taken the risk, done the work, and achieved nothing lasting.

Prevention and Professional Solutions

The good news? Moss damage is entirely preventable with the right approach.

Regular Roof Inspections

The single best thing you can do is catch moss early, before it becomes established. A professional roof survey identifies problem areas and gives you a clear picture of your roof's condition.

At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we recommend Belfast homeowners have their roofs inspected at least every two to three years: more frequently if you have trees overhanging your property or north-facing slopes that stay damp.

Professional Moss Removal

When moss has taken hold, professional removal is the safest and most effective option. This involves:

• Careful manual removal that doesn't damage tiles
• Biocide treatment that kills remaining moss and spores
• Protective treatments that discourage regrowth

Professional treatment typically lasts several years, giving you genuine peace of mind rather than a temporary fix.

Improving Roof Conditions

Sometimes simple changes make a big difference. Trimming back overhanging branches improves airflow and reduces shade. Ensuring gutters drain properly prevents water pooling. These small steps create an environment where moss struggles to establish itself.

Take Action Before Small Problems Become Big Bills

Moss removal is important for protecting your roof investment. What starts as a cosmetic issue can become serious structural damage if left unchecked: and in Northern Ireland's damp climate, that progression happens faster than most homeowners expect.

Don't wait until you're dealing with leaks, damaged timbers, or compromised insulation. A professional roof inspection gives you the information you need to make smart decisions about your property.

Request a roof survey today. Call Advanced Construction & Roofing to arrange an inspection and find out exactly what's happening on your roof: before that innocent-looking moss causes damage you can't ignore.

You've spotted it. That dreaded dark patch on your ceiling. Water droplets forming on your bedroom window. Maybe there's even a musty smell creeping into your home.

But here's the million-pound question: Is your roof actually leaking, or is condensation playing tricks on you?

In Northern Ireland, where our high rainfall and humidity create the perfect conditions for damp problems, this confusion costs homeowners thousands of pounds every year. People pay for roof repairs they don't need. Others ignore what they think is "just condensation" until serious water damage sets in.

Let's solve this mystery once and for all.

Why This Confusion Happens So Often in Belfast and Beyond

Northern Ireland's climate is uniquely challenging. We get an average of 150+ rainy days per year, and our coastal humidity levels stay consistently high. This combination means both leaks AND condensation are common problems: and they can look remarkably similar at first glance.

The key difference is simple but crucial:

• Leaks involve water entering from outside through structural defects
• Condensation results from interior moisture that can't escape due to poor ventilation

Getting this diagnosis wrong means wasting money on the wrong solution. Get it right, and you'll fix the problem properly the first time.

How to Identify a Genuine Roof Leak

Roof leaks have telltale signs that set them apart from condensation. Here's what to look for:

Timing matters. Does the damp patch appear or worsen during or immediately after rainfall? This is a strong indicator of a leak. Water entering from outside follows weather patterns.

Location is key. Leaks typically show up in specific, concentrated areas rather than spread evenly across surfaces. Common spots include:

• Directly below chimney stacks
• Around roof valleys where two slopes meet
• Near skylights or roof windows
• Along the edges where the roof meets walls

Check for these external culprits:

• Missing, cracked, or slipped roof tiles
• Damaged flashing around chimneys and vents
• Blocked or broken gutters causing overflow
• Cracked mortar on ridge tiles
• Deteriorating lead work

If you've experienced recent storm damage, the chances of having an actual leak increase significantly. Strong winds can dislodge tiles and create entry points for water that weren't there before. Learn more about handling storm damage properly.

How to Identify Condensation Problems

Condensation behaves very differently from leaks, and recognising these patterns will save you unnecessary repair costs.

It appears on cold surfaces. Condensation forms when warm, moist air meets a cold surface. You'll typically notice it on windows, external walls, and cold corners of rooms: not random spots on ceilings.

It's worse in specific rooms. Kitchens and bathrooms generate the most moisture through cooking and showering. If your damp problems are concentrated in these areas, condensation is likely the cause.

It doesn't follow the weather. Unlike leaks, condensation can occur on dry days. It's often worse during cold spells when the temperature difference between inside and outside is greatest.

Look for these warning signs:

• Water droplets streaming down windows every morning
• Black mould growing in corners and behind furniture
• Musty smells that won't go away
• Damp patches that appear regardless of rainfall
• Peeling wallpaper or bubbling paint on external walls

The Hidden Culprit: Modern PVC Windows

Here's something most Northern Ireland homeowners don't realise: your energy-efficient PVC windows might be causing your condensation problems.

Sounds backwards, doesn't it? But it's true.

Older homes were designed with natural ventilation in mind. Draughty windows, gaps around doors, and open fireplaces allowed air to circulate freely. Moisture escaped naturally.

Then we upgraded to double-glazed PVC windows. We blocked up fireplaces. We insulated our walls. Suddenly, our homes became sealed boxes where moisture has nowhere to go.

The result? All that moisture from cooking, showering, drying clothes, and even breathing gets trapped inside. It condenses on the coldest surfaces it can find.

This doesn't mean PVC windows are bad: they're excellent for energy efficiency. But they've changed how our homes need to be ventilated.

Solving Your Condensation Problem

If you've identified condensation as your culprit, here's your action plan:

Improve ventilation immediately:

• Open windows for at least 15 minutes daily, even in winter
• Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms: and make sure they're actually working
• Don't block trickle vents on your windows
• Consider installing roof ventilation if your loft space is affected

Reduce moisture at the source:

• Dry clothes outside when possible, not on radiators
• Keep lids on pans when cooking
• Run the extractor fan during and after showers
• Avoid portable gas or paraffin heaters: they add significant moisture to the air

Address temperature differences:

• Improve insulation on external walls and in your loft
• Keep heating consistent rather than having extreme temperature swings
• Don't let rooms get too cold: aim for at least 15°C in unused rooms

Proper roof ventilation plays a massive role in preventing condensation damage in your loft space. Without adequate airflow, moisture accumulates and causes everything from mould growth to rotting timbers.

When You Actually Have a Leak: What to Do Next

Confirmed you've got a genuine roof leak? Act fast. Water damage cascades quickly, leading to:

• Rotting roof timbers
• Damaged insulation (which then causes condensation problems too)
• Electrical hazards
• Structural issues

Don't make these common mistakes:

Many homeowners try temporary fixes like sealants and patches. These rarely work long-term and can make the problem worse by trapping water in places you can't see. Discover why DIY roof repairs often fail.

Get a professional assessment. A proper roof survey identifies not just the obvious leak, but underlying issues that could cause problems down the line. At Advanced Construction & Roofing, we provide detailed surveys with photo evidence so you know exactly what you're dealing with. Book your roof survey here.

Still Not Sure? Here's Your Next Step

Sometimes the line between leak and condensation isn't clear-cut. You might even have both problems occurring simultaneously: which is more common than you'd think in Northern Ireland's climate.

The safest approach? Get a professional opinion before spending money on solutions that might not address your actual problem.

Our team at Advanced Construction & Roofing has over 30 years of experience diagnosing damp issues in Belfast homes. We'll tell you honestly whether you need roof repairs, ventilation improvements, or both.

Request your roof survey today. Call us or visit our survey page to book an assessment. We'll give you a clear diagnosis, photo evidence of any issues, and straightforward advice on the most cost-effective solution.

Don't let the damp mystery damage your home: or your wallet. Get answers from the experts who know Northern Ireland roofs inside and out.