
Repair of roofs with bitumen tiles
Repair of Roofs with Bitumen Tiles
Bitumen tile roofs are valued for their quiet performance, attractive finish, and dependable weather protection. Over time, however, heat, wind, and moisture can loosen shingles, open seams, and wear the protective granules that keep the roof watertight. When small issues are ignored, they can quickly turn into leaks, damaged decking, and costly interior repairs.
Our team repairs bitumen tile roofing on homes and small commercial buildings, focusing on durable fixes that match your roof system. We locate the true source of water entry, replace failed materials, and restore a tight seal so your roof can handle changing seasons with confidence.
Common Problems We Fix on Bitumen Tile Roofs
Bitumen tiles are resilient, but they still depend on secure adhesion, intact underlayment, and sound flashing. We see damage that ranges from isolated punctures to widespread wear after storms.
- Missing or lifted tiles caused by wind uplift, poor fastening, or aging adhesive strips
- Cracking and splitting from thermal cycling and UV exposure, often around ridges and valleys
- Granule loss that accelerates aging and exposes the bitumen layer to sunlight
- Leaks near penetrations around vents, chimneys, skylights, and pipe boots
- Faulty flashing where metal edges separate from the roof surface or sealant fails
- Valley and eaves issues including worn valley lining and moisture back up at the edge
If you have staining on ceilings, damp insulation, musty odours in the attic, or visible shingle distortion, book an assessment before the next heavy rain. For urgent situations, explore our emergency roof repair options to limit water damage quickly.
Our Repair Process
1. Inspection and leak tracing
We start with a careful roof surface check and a targeted interior review when needed. The goal is to pinpoint the entry point, not just the visible drip. We examine seams, valleys, transitions, and all roof penetrations, then propose the most effective repair scope based on the roof condition.
2. Preparing the area
Successful repairs depend on clean, dry, stable surfaces. We remove loose tiles, lift surrounding courses as needed, and clear debris that can prevent adhesion. Where the roof deck or underlayment is compromised, we replace damaged sections to restore a sound base.
3. Tile replacement and patch repairs
For localized damage, we install matching bitumen tiles and secure them with approved fixings and bonding. When cracking or punctures occur in a small area, we may complete a reinforced patch repair, ensuring edges are sealed and layered correctly so water sheds naturally.
4. Flashing and detailing
Many leaks originate at details rather than the field of the roof. We repair or replace step flashing, apron flashing, valley linings, and edge trims. We also re seal around vents and skylights using compatible materials designed for long term flexibility.
5. Final checks and recommendations
After repairs, we inspect the surrounding roof area for secondary issues that could cause future leaks. You receive clear guidance on next steps, whether that is a small follow up fix, improved drainage, or planned maintenance.
To schedule dependable roof repair, we make it easy to choose a visit time and share photos or notes about the problem ahead of arrival.
Repair Options for Homes and Businesses
Bitumen tile roofing is common on pitched residential roofs, but it is also used on accessory structures and certain commercial buildings. We tailor the repair to your property type, access needs, and operational constraints.
- Residential repairs for leaks, wind lifted shingles, ridge cap failures, and valley wear
- Commercial repairs that prioritise safety, minimal disruption, and durable detailing
- Storm response for wind damage, fallen branches, and water ingress after heavy rain
- Preventive maintenance to stop minor defects from turning into major repairs
If you manage multiple properties or need documentation, we can provide photos of affected areas and a clear description of the work carried out. For ongoing support, consider periodic roof inspections and repairs to catch early signs of failure.
Why Timely Repairs Matter
Even a small opening can let water travel under tiles and soak insulation or timber over a wide area. Moisture can reduce thermal performance, promote mould, and weaken roof decking. Fixing problems early usually means a smaller repair area, better material compatibility, and lower overall cost.
Bitumen tile repairs also protect the roof system warranty conditions where applicable, since neglected damage can lead to broader deterioration. With the right materials and correct layering, a repair can extend the service life of your roof significantly.
What to Expect When You Book
- Clear communication about access, timing, and weather dependent scheduling
- Careful work practices that protect gutters, landscaping, and surrounding finishes
- Repairs focused on watertight integrity, not quick surface fixes
- Practical advice on ventilation, drainage, and future maintenance
If your bitumen tile roof shows signs of wear or you suspect a leak, we are ready to assess the damage and carry out a repair that restores reliable protection for your property.
FAQ
How do I know if my bitumen tile roof leak is coming from the tiles or the flashing?
Leaks often show up far from the actual entry point, so a surface stain alone is not enough to diagnose. We inspect valleys, penetrations, and flashing lines first, then check for lifted or cracked tiles nearby. A proper trace prevents repeat leaks and unnecessary tile replacement.
Can you replace only a few damaged bitumen tiles, or do I need a full roof replacement?
In many cases, isolated wind damage, punctures, or cracked shingles can be repaired by replacing the affected tiles and sealing the surrounding area. A full replacement is usually considered only when widespread granule loss, repeated leaks, or underlayment failure is found. We will explain the condition and options after inspection.
Is it safe to wait until the weather improves before fixing a small roof leak?
Waiting can allow moisture to spread under the tiles and into insulation and timber, increasing repair costs. If active leaking is present, a quick temporary protection and prompt repair is recommended. We can prioritise urgent jobs to reduce interior damage.