Greenwich · Greater London
Roof structure repairs in Greenwich
A dipping ridge or a wavy roof slope in Greenwich is usually a timber problem, not a tile problem. We look at the rafters, purlins, struts and ties from the loft, and at the wall heads from outside, before suggesting how to strengthen it.
Guide price from£375per rafter inc VAT
- Postcodes
- SE3, SE7, SE9, SE10, SE18
- Population
- about 290,000
- Area
- Greater London
- Pricing region
- London
Why does the ground in Greater London matter for roof structure repairs?
We cover the whole of Greenwich, including postcode districts SE3, SE7, SE9, SE10, SE18; about 290,000 people live in the borough. If you are just outside Greenwich, we also cover Lewisham (4 miles), Newham (4 miles) and Bexley (4 miles).
Shrinkable clay is widespread in Greater London. Ground movement here is more often linked to soils, drains and trees than to mining. Typical buildings in Greater London: Victorian and Edwardian terraces with shallow footings, inter-war semis in the outer boroughs, and converted flats and mansion blocks.
What to expect when we carry out roof structure repairs
Loft and outside survey
On site we check rafter sizes and spacing, purlins, struts, ties and wall plates, look for rot and past alterations, and measure any lean at the wall head. The covering is noted too, because its weight affects the repair.
Engineer’s design where needed
Where purlins, struts or ties must be redesigned, or the roof carries a heavier covering, an independent chartered structural engineer is appointed to specify the work. We can arrange this, and their design sets the sizes and fixings.
Written quote
You receive a no-obligation written quote listing each timber repair, any ties or straps, propping, scaffolding and making good. Once the repair is specified, the figure becomes a fixed price in writing.
Is it time for roof structure repairs? Common signs
- Daylight through the tiles, or timber that is damp, stained or crumbling
- Top of an outside wall leaning out at eaves level
- Ridge line dipping in the middle when seen from the street
What should you budget for roof structure repairs in Greenwich?
For Greenwich we use London rates. Treat the table as a budget guide, inc VAT; the price you pay is the one on your written quote.
| Item | Guide price | Per |
|---|---|---|
| Repairing or doubling a rafter | £375 – £750 | per rafter |
| Purlin and strut strengthening | £1,500 – £3,750 | per roof |
| Tying in roof spread (straps and ties)est. | £1,000 – £3,100 | per roof |
Repair options we may recommend
Wall plate replacement
Rotten or crushed wall plates are replaced in short lengths while the rafters above are propped, and bedded on the wall in mortar. The plate is then strapped down to the masonry. It is often combined with rafter foot splices along the same run.
Best for: Rot along the eaves where rafters bear on the wall
Tying in roof spread
New ties, collars or steel straps connect opposite rafters, or fix the rafter feet and wall plate firmly to the ceiling joists, so the outward thrust is resisted. Leaning wall heads are strapped back to the roof, and a badly spread roof may need partly rebuilding first.
Best for: Walls pushed out at eaves level by spreading rafters
Rules for roof structure repairs in England
In England, underpinning and other work that alters or strengthens a wall or foundation is building work under the Building Regulations (Part A, structure), so building control approves and inspects it. Like-for-like repairs often are not, and we tell you which applies before a price is agreed. Work to a party wall, or excavation close to a neighbour’s foundations, can also need a notice under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
Your roof structure repairs questions
How much will roof structure repairs cost in Greenwich?
Guide prices for roof structure repairs in Greenwich start from about £375 per rafter, including VAT, on London rates. Your fixed written price follows photos or a survey and depends on the extent of the work and access.
Do you cover Greenwich?
Yes, Greenwich is covered, along with postcode districts SE3, SE7, SE9, SE10. We also cover nearby Lewisham and Newham.
Is the ground in Greater London prone to subsidence?
Most of Greater London sits on London Clay, among the most shrinkage-prone ground in the UK, with river gravels along the Thames. Subsidence claims here are among the most frequent in the country, especially after dry summers and near street and garden trees. Only an investigation can say why a particular building has moved.
Can heavy concrete tiles damage a roof?
Yes, if the frame was designed for lighter slate or tiles and was not strengthened. The extra weight makes rafters and purlins sag and can bring on roof spread. Before re-roofing in a heavier material, have the structure checked and notify building control.
Do I need a structural engineer for roof repairs?
For like-for-like repairs to a few rafters, often not. Where purlins, struts or ties are being redesigned, the covering is getting heavier or the walls are being pushed out, you usually do. Where the repair needs an engineer’s design or sign-off, an independent chartered structural engineer is appointed, and we can arrange this.
Other structural repairs in Greenwich
- Retaining wall repairs
- Lintel replacement
- Concrete repairs
- Chimney stack repairs
- Bay window subsidence repairs
Roof structure repairs near Greenwich
Get a free initial assessment of a sagging or spreading roof in Greenwich from your photos or a call, and find out whether an engineer is needed.