Pontefract is known for a few things… castle ruins, liquorice and some of the friendliest locals in West Yorkshire. But one thing that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves is the roofs.
Whether you’re living in a Georgian townhouse on Gillygate, a 1930s semi in Chequerfield or a modern new-build in Monkhill, your roof is your first line of defence against the elements. And after the cold, wet and often unpredictable winter we’ve just had, it’s smart to give it a springtime once-over.
Here are five signs your roof might be overdue for a spring check-up, and why now’s the best time to get it sorted.
1. You’ve spotted slipped or missing tiles
Let’s start with the most obvious. Winter in Pontefract may not bring the deepest snowfalls, but the town is no stranger to strong winds and prolonged wet spells (we have weather systems sweeping in from the Pennines to thank for that). If you’ve noticed tiles that look out of place, cracked or completely missing, that’s your first clue.
Where this is common in Pontefract
Many older homes in Tanshelf or in the historic heart of the town still have traditional slate roofs. Slate’s hardwearing and long-lasting, but it can crack or slip if the fixings corrode. Newer homes (like the ones you’ll find in housing developments in Castle Gardens and Stanhope Fields) aren’t out of the firing line either. Modern builds often use concrete or clay tiles, which can lift in storms or degrade over time.
Why it matters
Even a single misplaced tile can let water in. And you can bet that water has a habit of travelling. What starts as a small drip can become a damp patch, a sagging ceiling or, worse, a sinking foundation. Spring is the ideal time to spot these issues and patch things up before summer showers arrive.
2. Your gutters are more clogged than the A639 at 5pm
Gutters have one job: directing water away from your home. But in areas like Pontefract, with mature trees and plenty of moss-loving damp, they can clog up fast.
What to look for
- Overflowing water during rainfall
- Sagging or leaking gutter joints
- Plants (yes, plants) starting to grow in the gutters
- Algae streaks or water marks down your exterior walls
Did you know?
Blocked gutters are one of the main causes of damp and foundation damage in West Yorkshire homes. If you own an older home with a less-than-modern drainage system, this can become a bigger issue (and costlier to fix). For example, a professional gutter clean costs a lot less than a full replacement.
3. There are signs of water damage inside
If you’ve noticed any of the following, there’s a good chance your roof needs attention:
- Brown stains on ceilings or walls
- Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper
- A musty smell in your loft or upstairs bedrooms
- Condensation that just won’t go away
These signs often mean moisture is getting in, either from broken tiles, lifted flashing or deteriorating underlay.
Top tip for Pontefract homeowners
In older terraced homes like the ones you’ll find off Baghill Lane, insulation or ventilation might not be up to modern standards. This can make condensation and mould even more of a problem if there’s a small leak. A roof inspection this spring could save you dealing with costly internal repairs in the months to come.
4. Your roof’s looking a bit… green
No, not eco-friendly. Literally green. If your roof is starting to look like it belongs in a garden centre, you could be dealing with moss or algae build-up. Homes shaded by trees or facing north are especially moss-prone.
Why it’s a problem
- Moss retains moisture which can weaken tiles and underlay
- It can block gutters and cause overflows
- Algae streaks reduce kerb appeal and hint at deeper moisture issues
Don’t try pressure washing!
Why? It can strip protective coatings or damage tiles. A professional roofer can assess whether a gentle treatment, manual removal or minor repair is needed.
5. Your roof hasn’t been checked in years
Most people don’t think about their roof until something goes wrong. But like your boiler, your roof needs the occasional once-over, especially after a tough winter. If your roof is more than 20 years old, or if you’ve never had a roofer check it since moving in, spring is the perfect time to get a pro involved. It’s dry enough to safely inspect and repair, but not so busy that you’ll be waiting weeks for an appointment.
Why spring, specifically?
Spring gives you that golden window when:
- Winter damage is fresh enough to catch
- Weather’s mild and dry for safe inspections
- Roofers aren’t fully booked up (yet)
It’s also when roofers can:
- Spot cracks and moisture before mould sets in
- Reseal flashings and joints in dry conditions
- Apply new tiles or coatings with time to cure properly
Unlock local insight with DPR Roofing
Pontefract’s famous for its historic castle (home to a few battles and more than a few ghosts), but it’s also known for Pontefract cake, a tasty treat invented in the 1700s. Fun fact: the town used to grow its own liquorice root, often in old priory gardens. Today, though, it’s mostly imported. Unlike our roofing expertise, which is proudly home-grown!
Whether you live in a two-up-two-down near the town centre or a detached family home in Carleton, your roof deserves more than just a passing glance. A quick spring check-up can mean the difference between a minor fix and a major leak later in the year.
DPR Roofing Pontefract has decades of experience working with the local housing stock, from period properties with more quirks than you can poke a stick at to brand-new builds. Basically, we know the difference between a slate crack that’s just cosmetic, and one that’s about to let in the rain.
Ready to book your spring roof check-up? Get in touch with DPR Roofing Pontefract for a no-obligation inspection, honest advice and repairs you can trust. Our promise? We’ll protect not only your home but your peace of mind.