1930s semi roofs: what to expect and when to act
Inter-war semis are the most common house type we work on locally, and their roofs are typically at the point where a decision has to be made rather than deferred.
The original build-up
Hipped roof, clay or early concrete tiles, mortar-bedded ridges and hips, and either no underlay at all or a bitumen felt that has long since embrittled.
What usually needs doing first
Ridge and hip lines, because that mortar has had ninety winters. Converting to a mechanically fixed dry system is the durable answer on most of these roofs.
Bay roofs
The small flat or lean-to roof over the front bay is frequently the oldest and worst part of the property, and often has original lead or felt that's well past its life.
Extensions and additions
Rear extensions added at different dates create junctions between coverings and pitches. These junctions are where the leaks are, far more often than the original slopes.
Planning the work in one go
If a re-roof is coming, that's the time to sort ventilation, fascias, gutters and the bay roof — because they all sit within the same access.
FAQs
Often yes. Sound clay tiles can be stripped, sorted and re-laid onto new battens and underlay, which keeps the look and reduces material cost.
It's usually the smallest, oldest and least maintained roof on the property, with lead detailing that has been patched rather than renewed.
Yes — where tiles slip in scattered positions rather than one area, the fixings are the issue.
Related reading
More on property types and the jobs that usually come with it.
- Listed buildings and conservation areas: roof repairsProperty types
- Victorian terrace roofs: the recurring problemsProperty types
- Landlord roof maintenance: preventing the expensive callProperty types
- Repair or replace: how to decideCosts & budgeting
Looking for something specific? See our roofing services, cost guides, common roof problems or the areas we cover.
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