Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Welcome to the Sussex Roofs FAQ page. Here, we’ve gathered answers to some of the most common questions we receive about roofing and property maintenance. We believe in providing clear, simple, and honest information to help you understand your options and make the best decisions for your home.
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to call our friendly team on 073692 90576.
How do I know if I need a roof repair or a full replacement?
The best way to know for sure is to get a professional opinion. However, some general signs can help:
- Repairs are often suitable for isolated issues like a few slipped tiles, a small leak in one specific area, or damage to a small section of your roof.
- A full replacement might be more cost-effective if your roof is very old (e.g., over 40 years), requires constant repairs, or has widespread damage, such as multiple leaks or significant moss growth causing tile damage. We will always give you an honest assessment and recommend the most sensible long-term solution.
How quickly can you respond to an emergency leak?
We understand that a serious roof leak is an emergency. We prioritise all emergency calls and aim to get a member of our team to your property as quickly as possible. Our goal is to assess the situation and carry out an effective temporary or permanent repair to stop the water from causing further damage to your home.
Is your work guaranteed and are you insured?
Yes, absolutely. We are fully insured with comprehensive public liability cover, which protects you, our team, and your property. All our major repair work and every new roof installation comes with a solid guarantee covering both the materials we use and our workmanship, giving you complete peace of mind.
What's the difference between a flat roof and a pitched roof?
It’s all about the shape. A pitched roof is the traditional sloped roof you see on most houses in the UK, designed to shed water easily. A flat roof, which is actually very slightly sloped to allow drainage, is commonly used for extensions, garages, and commercial buildings. We are experts in repairing and installing both types.
How long does a new roof typically last?
This depends entirely on the material used:
- Modern Flat Roofs: High-performance felt can last 15-20 years, while GRP (fibreglass) and EPDM (rubber) can last for 30-50 years or more.
- Pitched Roofs (Tiles): Concrete tiles generally last for 40-50 years, while good quality clay tiles can last for over 60 years.
- Pitched Roofs (Slate): Natural slate is the most durable, often lasting for 100 years or more.
My roof has slate tiles. Can you repair it?
Yes, we are specialists in working with slate roofs. Slate requires specific skills to repair correctly. We are experts at carefully removing broken slates and replacing them with matching ones to ensure the repair is both effective and blends in with the rest of your historic roof.
Why is gutter cleaning so important?
Your gutters channel thousands of litres of rainwater away from your house. When they become blocked with leaves and moss, that water overflows and runs down your walls. This is a leading cause of penetrating damp, mould, and even damage to your home’s foundations. Regular cleaning is a small, low-cost job that prevents very expensive problems later on.
What are fascias and soffits, and why do mine need replacing?
The fascia is the board that runs along your roofline that your guttering is attached to, and the soffit is the board underneath it. If you have old timber boards, they are likely to rot, flake, and require constant painting. Replacing them with modern uPVC fascias and soffits is a permanent solution. It protects your roof structure from water and pests, improves your home’s appearance, and means you will never have to paint your roofline again.
What are the signs that my chimney needs repairing?
Look for visible cracks in the brickwork, crumbling mortar joints, or a leaning stack. You might also find bits of mortar or brick in your fireplace or on the ground below. Damp patches on the chimney breast inside your home are another key warning sign. A damaged chimney can be a safety hazard, so it’s always best to get it checked.
My conservatory is leaking. Can it be fixed?
Yes, in almost all cases. Conservatory roof leaks are very common and can usually be traced back to a slipped panel, a failed rubber seal, or an issue with the flashing where the roof joins the house. Our team can quickly find the source of the leak and carry out a lasting repair.
Why is my conservatory so hot in summer and cold in winter?
This is a classic problem caused by poor insulation in the roof, especially with older polycarbonate roofs. We can significantly improve this by replacing the old panels with modern solar-control glass units. This special glass reflects the sun’s heat to keep the room cooler in summer while providing excellent insulation to keep it warmer in winter, making the space usable all year round.
How much will my roofing work cost?
The cost of any job, from a small repair to a full replacement, depends on factors like the size of the area, the materials chosen, and the complexity of the work. This is why we always provide a free, on-site inspection. Afterwards, you will receive a detailed, written quotation with a clear breakdown of all costs, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Do I need to be at home while you do the work?
Not necessarily. For most external work, such as roof repairs or gutter cleaning, you do not need to be present as long as we have safe access to the area we need to work on. Our team is professional and respectful, and we always ensure your property is left clean and tidy.
My roof has moss on it. Is this a problem?
A large amount of moss can be a problem. It acts like a sponge, holding water against the surface of your tiles or slates. In winter, this water can freeze, expand, and cause cracks or damage. It can also block your gutters. We can offer advice on the best way to safely remove moss and treat the roof to inhibit its return.
How long does it take to replace a whole roof?
For an average-sized semi-detached house, a full re-roof (including stripping the old roof and fitting the new one) typically takes between 5 and 10 working days. This can be affected by the weather and the complexity of the roof design. We will always give you a clear, realistic timeline before we start.

