When your roof starts leaking, shingles fly off in the wind, or you see daylight through the rafters, you don’t need a guesswork fix—you need a roofer, a trained professional who installs, repairs, and maintains roofing systems on homes and buildings. Also known as a roofing contractor, it’s the person who handles everything from simple patch jobs to full roof replacements, using materials like asphalt, tile, metal, or slate that suit your home and climate. A good roofer doesn’t just slap on new shingles—they check for rot, assess ventilation, inspect flashing around chimneys, and make sure the underlayment is sealed properly. Skip this step, and you’re not just risking leaks—you’re inviting mold, structural damage, or even insulation failure.
Roof repair and roof replacement aren’t the same thing, and knowing the difference saves money. If your roof is under 15 years old and only has a few missing or curled shingles, a roof repair, a targeted fix for localized damage like broken tiles or damaged flashing might be all you need. But if you’ve got sagging decking, widespread granule loss, or water stains on your ceilings, you’re likely looking at a roof replacement, a complete tear-off and rebuild of the roofing system. And if your roof is over 20 years old? It’s probably time—even if it hasn’t leaked yet. Older roofs lose their protective layer, and insurance companies often won’t cover claims on roofs past their lifespan.
Not all roofers are created equal. Some are licensed, insured, and carry warranties on both materials and labor. Others show up with a pickup truck and a stack of shingles, take your deposit, and disappear. The best way to tell the difference? Ask for proof of insurance, check local reviews with real photos, and never pay in full upfront. A trustworthy roofer will give you a written estimate that breaks down labor, materials, disposal fees, and any permits needed. They’ll also explain why they’re recommending a specific material—like metal for high-wind areas or slate for longevity—even if it costs more.
Weather plays a big role too. Roofing in winter is risky—cold makes materials brittle, and wet underlayment won’t seal right. Most pros avoid working in rain or below 40°F. Spring and early autumn are ideal: dry, mild, and stable. That’s why so many homeowners in the UK schedule roof work during these months. And if you’re planning a renovation? Don’t wait until after you’ve painted the walls or installed new windows. The roof goes first. Water damage doesn’t care about your décor.
What you’ll find below are real stories from people who’ve dealt with leaking roofs, dodgy contractors, and surprise costs. Some learned the hard way. Others saved thousands by asking the right questions before signing a contract. Whether you’re dealing with a single damaged shingle or a full roof collapse, the posts here give you the facts—not the sales pitch.
