The Challenge: Identifying the Source of Internal Damp
A homeowner contacted us regarding persistent damp patches appearing on an internal wall. Upon a detailed roof inspection, we located the culprit: a significant crack in the aging lead valley. This structural failure was allowing rainwater to bypass the roof’s drainage system and seep directly into the property’s masonry.
The Technical Solution
To provide a permanent, watertight fix, our team executed a comprehensive overhaul of the valley and surrounding roof area:
Leadwork Replacement: We stripped back the surrounding tiles and removed the fatigued lead. We then installed a premium Code 4, 18-inch lead valley. This higher-grade lead provides the perfect balance of flexibility and thickness, ensuring it can withstand thermal expansion and contraction for decades to come.
Velux Detail Repairs: While the roof was open, we identified and repaired minor tile issues around the Velux window to ensure the flashing was fully integrated and secure.
Preventative Maintenance: To extend the life of the roof, we performed a full moss removal service, preventing moisture retention on the tile surfaces.
Gutter Restoration: Finally, we manually cleared the cast iron guttering system, ensuring unobstructed water flow away from the building’s foundation.
The Result
The property is now fully protected against the elements. By upgrading to Code 4 lead and clearing the integrated drainage systems, we have eliminated the damp issue and restored the roof’s aesthetic and functional integrity.