The roof is one of the most important parts of your home, protecting you from wind, rain and changing weather. Over time, however, even the strongest roofs can develop issues. If these problems are not dealt with early, they can lead to costly repairs. Knowing what to look for can help you act quickly and keep your home safe and dry.
Unsure how to tell if your roof needs fixing? Recognise warning signs such as leaks or missing tiles and get expert assessment to keep your home safe and dry.
Signs of a Leaking Roof
One of the clearest signs your roof may need fixing is water making its way inside. You might see stains on your ceilings or running down your walls. These marks often appear after heavy rain and suggest that water has found a path through the roof and into your home.
If you notice a musty smell or damp feeling in your loft, that could also be a warning sign. Water getting through the roof can soak insulation, damage timber and cause mould to grow. If left untreated, leaks can cause serious structural issues. Regularly checking your loft and the rooms below the roof can help catch these problems early.
Missing or Broken Roof Tiles
Roof tiles are designed to shield your home from water, wind and cold air. Over time, they can crack or slip out of place, especially after bad weather. If any tiles are missing or damaged, your roof becomes vulnerable. Water can then seep underneath and cause hidden damage.
Even if you can’t always see the top of your roof clearly, it’s worth looking from ground level after storms to check for anything unusual. If you spot broken tiles or pieces lying around your garden, it’s likely a sign that repairs are needed. A roofer can replace these quickly before further harm is done to your roof.

Moss or Mould Growing on the Roof
Moss growing on your roof might not look serious, but it can cause real problems over time. Moss holds on to moisture and can grow between tiles, pushing them apart and letting water in. The damp it creates also encourages mould to form, which can spread inside your home.
If your roof stays wet for long periods because of moss, it could weaken the surface underneath. You might start to see green or black patches on ceilings or upper walls inside your home. These patches are often a sign that water is getting in from above, and it’s best not to ignore them. Dealing with moss early can help avoid more expensive roof repairs later.

Loose or Damaged Flashing
Flashing is used to seal the edges around chimneys, vents, and other joins on your roof. If flashing becomes loose, rusted or broken, water can leak through these weak spots and into your home.
You might not always see the damage from the outside, but you could notice damp marks appearing on walls near the chimney or on ceilings close to roof features.
Water that gets in through poor flashing can travel further than expected, making it hard to trace the source of a leak. That’s why it’s a good idea to have flashing checked regularly, especially if your roof is older. Repairing flashing is often quicker and less costly than dealing with water damage inside your home.
When to Call a Roof Expert
If you’ve noticed signs like leaks, missing tiles, moss growth or damp walls, it could be time to bring in a professional. A qualified roofer can assess the full condition of your roof, spot issues that aren’t visible from the ground, and suggest the right repairs.
Even if the problems seem small, fixing them early can stop them from getting worse. Roof repairs done on time help protect your home and prevent water from causing further damage. Don’t wait until you have major issues before acting. A quick check now could save you a lot of trouble later.
At Red Ridge Roofing, we provide expert roof repair services across Ascot, Farnborough, and Bracknell. Whether your roof is leaking, tiles are missing, or flashing is loose, our experienced team is ready to respond quickly and professionally to protect your home or business.