Garage Roof Repairs

Most garage roof problems don't appear overnight. Around 70 percent of garage leaks come from failed flashing or perished edge seals rather than the main roofing material itself. We see this all the time when we inspect properties where homeowners thought the entire roof needed replacing, when actually targeted repairs to the edges and joints would have solved the issue.

Old roof panels erode, crack and scale over time, especially on garages built before the 1990s. Small cracks or splits in a garage roof can increase in size by up to 50 percent during winter due to freeze and thaw cycles. What starts as a tiny gap in your existing roof can quickly turn into a major water ingress problem if left unaddressed.

Poor drainage systems cause water to pool on flat roofs, and even a few millimetres of standing water can shorten a felt roof's lifespan considerably. We've found that about a third of garage roof failures occur because of poor installation rather than simple wear and tear, which is why choosing the right contractor matters so much.

Flat garage roofs remain the most common type we work on across the UK. These roofs generally last 15 to 25 years depending on the material used, with fibre-cement and felt on the lower end and GRP or EPDM rubber on the higher end. Flat roofs are less expensive and easier to install than pitched roofs, but they do require regular inspections to catch problems early.

Pitched garage roofs provide superior water drainage, making them ideal for areas with high rainfall. We repair pitched roofs covered in tiles, slate and corrugated metal sheets. Corrugated metal sheets are a lightweight and durable option that we often recommend for pitched garage roofs when clients want a cost effective solution.

Garages with asbestos roofs present a special challenge. Garages built before the early 1990s are far more likely to have asbestos-containing roofing sheets, and many property owners don't realise this until a professional inspection is carried out. Asbestos poses serious health risks, including lung cancer and mesothelioma, when disturbed, so we always follow safe asbestos removal procedures when handling these materials.

Most homeowners typically don't check their garage roof for damage until a visible leak appears, even though early warning signs usually appear months beforehand. We recommend looking out for water stains on the ceiling, which indicate moisture has already penetrated through the roofing layers and into the structure below.

Sagging in a roof indicates serious problems like rotten timbers or weakened rafters that need immediate professional attention. A typical leaking garage roof can waste more than 1,000 litres of water per year into the structure, leading to rot and damp issues in stored belongings. We've seen cases where expensive tools and vehicles suffered damage that could have been prevented with timely repairs.

Moss or mould on a garage roof signals poor drainage and may lead to leaks if not addressed promptly. Garage roofs exposed to overhanging trees can accumulate debris up to ten times faster, increasing the likelihood of blocked gutters and moisture problems. Missing tiles after a storm or visible cracks in flat roofing materials also require urgent attention before rain causes further damage.

When you contact us for garage roof repairs, especially if you're researching how to repair a garage roof, we start with a thorough inspection, including a roof inspection by drone where appropriate, to identify all sources of leaks and assess the overall condition of your roof. Our team checks the main roofing material, flashing, edge seals, gutters and drainage systems to build a complete picture of what needs fixing.

We work safely on every project, following health and safety guidelines whether we're dealing with standard materials or hazardous substances like asbestos. For asbestos roofs, we carry out safe asbestos removal using approved methods and dispose of materials according to local authority regulations. Our roofers are fully trained and insured to handle various materials without putting your property or anyone's health at risk.

During repairs, we replace damaged sections, reseal vulnerable areas and ensure proper drainage to prevent standing water. Upgrading to a modern single-piece membrane, such as GRP or EPDM, can reduce future maintenance needs by up to 80 percent compared to traditional felt. We always explain your options clearly so you can make an informed decision about whether targeted repairs or full garage roof replacement makes more sense for your situation.

When discussing the best roofing material for garages, felt remains the most popular choice for new garage roofs in the UK because it provides good protection at a reasonable price. However, choosing high-quality materials for a garage roof can lead to a longer lifespan and reduced likelihood of future repairs. We stock and install a wide range of materials to suit different budgets and requirements.

EPDM rubber roofing is more expensive than felt but lasts longer and requires less maintenance over time. Many of our clients appreciate that rubber roofs come in single sheets, reducing the number of seams where leaks can develop. We've found that upgrading from traditional felt to EPDM can extend your roof's lifespan by a decade or more.

Single-ply membranes like sarnafil represent the cutting edge of flat roofing technology. Sarnafil roofing systems are known for their exceptional durability, which is why we use them on large commercial buildings as well as residential extensions. These membranes are hot-air welded during installation, creating strong, watertight seams that prevent leaks far better than mechanical fixings or adhesives alone.

Tile or slate garage roofs are more expensive initially but can last for decades if installed correctly. These materials suit pitched roofs and complement the house if your garage is attached or highly visible. Replacing old corrugated sheets with insulated roofing panels can improve garage energy efficiency by up to 30 percent, which makes a real difference if you use your garage as a workshop or hobby space.

The material chosen for a garage roof impacts its longevity and maintenance requirements, so we help you weigh up the initial cost against long-term value. Investing in quality materials can extend the lifespan of your garage roof and reduce future repair needs, saving you money over the years.