Introduction
A roof might look perfectly fine from your garden path, but looks can be deceiving. While obvious issues like missing tiles or broken guttering catch your eye easily, many serious roofing problems remain hidden unless viewed up close—or better yet, by a professional.
At LS Roofing Henley-on-Thames, we often find that what seems like a minor issue from below turns out to be a much more pressing concern upon closer inspection. If you’re in Henley-on-Thames or anywhere across Oxfordshire, here are 11 types of roof damage that homeowners often miss—until it’s too late.
1. Cracked or Blistered Tiles
Heat, frost and UV exposure can cause small cracks or blisters that are hard to see from ground level. These flaws eventually lead to water ingress and rot.
2. Loose Flashing
Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights may loosen over time. While still intact from afar, up-close checks often reveal lifting edges that allow water to creep in.
3. Hidden Moss Growth
Moss might not seem like a threat, but when it wedges under tiles or holds moisture on the surface, it accelerates deterioration—often hidden beneath the tile line.
4. Nail Pops
Roofing nails can gradually push up due to thermal expansion, compromising the seal of shingles or tiles and inviting leaks during heavy rain.
5. Worn Underlay
The waterproof underlay beneath the surface is your last line of defence. Over time, it breaks down—especially after storms—but this isn’t visible unless tiles are lifted.
6. Blocked Valleys
Valleys—the channels where two roof slopes meet—can collect debris and grow mould or algae. Blockages here quickly lead to pooling water and roof rot.
7. Soft Spots in the Decking
Areas of sagging or weakened decking may not show from below but can be felt underfoot during a proper inspection. These soft spots are signs of trapped moisture and potential collapse.
8. Hidden Gutter Backups
Gutters can look fine from the ground, yet still be clogged with leaves, bird nests, or moss—causing water to spill back under the roof edge unseen.
9. Dislodged Ridge Tiles
Even if tiles on the main surface appear sound, the ridge at the top may have shifted slightly in a storm. These small movements can open up gaps.
10. Internal Condensation
In cold weather, condensation forms inside the roof space if ventilation is poor. You won’t see this from outside—but the resulting mould and timber damage can be extensive.
11. Punctures from Wildlife
Birds, squirrels and other animals can cause damage to vents, soffits or roof coverings. These small entry points are easily missed but may lead to nesting or infestations.
Why Regular Inspections Matter
Many of these issues don’t present visible symptoms until they’ve already caused serious damage inside the property—such as damp ceilings, mould patches or sagging plasterboard. By then, repairs are more invasive and expensive.
Routine inspections by a professional roofer can:
- Identify small issues before they escalate
- Prolong the life of your roofing materials
- Protect your property from unexpected weather damage
- Help plan maintenance and avoid costly surprises
Conclusion
Just because you can’t see roof damage doesn’t mean it’s not there. Roofs take a beating year-round from weather, wildlife and general wear—and many problems quietly worsen over time.
At LS Roofing Henley-on-Thames, we provide thorough inspections and expert repairs across Henley-on-Thames and Oxfordshire, helping homeowners spot what they can’t see from below. If you suspect your roof has hidden issues—or simply want peace of mind—get in touch with our team today. Prevention is always better (and cheaper) than cure.
Call us on: 01491 527 598
Click here to find out more about LS Roofing Henley-on-Thames
Click here to complete our contact form and see how we can help with your roofing needs.
