Discussing Common Roofing Problems and How to Address Them

When I first moved into my place in Kensington, I was in love. The tall ceilings, original sash windows, that worn-but-beautiful fireplace in the front room—honestly, I still feel lucky to call this home. But it didn’t take long before the honeymoon phase wore off and I was faced with something I hadn’t really prepared for: roof problems.

I didn’t know where to start. I felt out of my depth. I even put it off for a bit, hoping it’d just go away.

It didn’t.

So this isn’t some expert lecture, and I’m not a builder. I’m just someone who’s made a few mistakes, learnt a lot, and wants to share what I’ve picked up. If your roof’s giving you grief—or even if you’re just trying to stay ahead of it—I hope this helps.

The Leak That Taught Me Everything

It was a cold, rainy Tuesday. I’d just settled in with a cuppa, blanket, and the telly on. Then I heard it: drip. Drip. Drip.

Turns out there was a slow leak coming from the roof, right above the corner of the living room. I’d noticed a faint stain weeks before but told myself it was just old water damage. Nope. That was the start of it.

What I learnt: Even the tiniest leak is worth checking. It doesn’t mean your whole roof’s falling apart—but it does mean something needs attention. In my case, it was a slipped slate tile. The fix was simple, but the delay caused more damage inside than it should’ve.

If you see a watermark on the ceiling, peeling paint near the chimney breast, or hear that tell-tale dripping sound, please don’t ignore it like I did. Get it looked at. You’ll feel so much better for it.

Gutter Guilt Is Real (But Fixable)

I used to roll my eyes when people talked about gutter cleaning. I thought it was one of those “I’ll get round to it eventually” jobs. Until my blocked gutter caused water to spill down the outside wall and seep into my kitchen.

Not a fun discovery on a Saturday morning, let me tell you.

Especially in Kensington, where we’re blessed (and occasionally cursed) with beautiful old trees—your gutters catch everything from leaves to moss to the odd mystery object. Clogs build up fast.

Now, I get them cleaned twice a year. Spring and autumn, no exceptions. If you’re not up for doing it yourself—and honestly, who is?—get someone local in. It’s a small cost that saves you a massive headache.

The Silent Damp in My Loft

I didn’t even know what roof ventilation meant until I smelt something musty upstairs. At first I thought it was just an old-house smell. But one weekend, I popped into the loft to grab a suitcase and found the insulation was damp and the wooden beams had little patches of mould.

It felt like the house was telling me: “Help me out here.”

Turns out, all the insulation I’d added (with the best intentions) had blocked airflow, so the warm air inside couldn’t escape. Moisture built up, quietly.

What I’d say to you: If your loft ever feels damp, stale, or hotter than it should be—it’s worth checking the airflow. A few simple vents made a world of difference. And now that bedroom doesn’t smell like a forgotten shed anymore.

My Beautiful, Broken Roof

I’ll always love the look of my roof. That sounds weird, I know, but from the street, it’s one of those classic Kensington rooftops—character, charm, all that.

But up close? It was a bit of a mess. Cracked ridge tiles, moss growing in all the wrong places, and signs of sagging at the back.

I remember feeling panicked the first time a roofer showed me photos. I thought, “This is going to cost me thousands, isn’t it?”

But you know what? It didn’t. He was kind. He explained what actually needed doing (which wasn’t as bad as I feared), gave me options, and never once made me feel stupid for not knowing.

Now I have someone check the roof once a year. Like a health check-up. Not because I’m worried—because it feels good to know everything’s sound.

When Birds Moved In Without Asking

This one still makes me laugh—now. At the time, I was fuming.

I kept hearing flapping above the bedroom. Turns out, a few pigeons had found a loose tile and made themselves at home in my loft. There were feathers, droppings, the works. The worst part? They’d pulled some insulation out to make a nest.

Lesson learnt: even small gaps invite unwanted guests. If something’s making noise up there, or you see birds hanging around your roof a bit too often—check it out.

I now have mesh guards over the chimney pots and sealed a couple of entry points. Haven’t had a single issue since.

Staying on Top of It Without Losing Sleep

Here’s what I do now—and it works for me:

• I have a roofer I trust come round once a year for a check-up.

• I book gutter cleaning in spring and autumn (set a reminder on my phone—lifesaver).

• After big storms, I glance up at the roof or loft ceiling just to be safe.

It’s not about obsessing. It’s about giving yourself peace of mind. Your home is such a big part of your life—it’s where you rest, recharge, and feel safe. And keeping the roof strong just helps everything feel that little bit more solid.

If You’re Feeling Stuck, Here’s Who Helped Me

I found Home Restoration Specialists after a neighbour recommended them, and honestly? They’ve been brilliant. No pressure. No sales talk. Just good people who show up, explain things clearly, and do the job properly.

They’ve helped me with repairs, gutter guards, and even small things like sealing vents or checking tiles. And every time, I’ve felt looked after—not taken for a ride.

📞 You can give them a call on 0203 633 9159
📩 Or message them through the online contact form

They’ll have a look, give you a clear quote, and let you decide from there. No stress, no surprises.

You’ve Got This

If your roof’s giving you grief, or you’ve just got that niggling feeling that something’s not quite right—trust your gut. You’re not being dramatic. You’re just looking after the place you call home.

I’ve made mistakes. I’ve waited too long. I’ve felt out of my depth. But with the right help and a bit of know-how, it all gets easier. You start to feel more in control. More confident. And—dare I say it—a bit proud of yourself.

Because being a homeowner isn’t always glamorous. But when you get it right? It feels really, really good.