As temperatures drop and the British winter sets in, your roof becomes one of the most critical defences your home has against the elements. With strong winds, heavy rainfall, frost, and even snow all possible in December, carrying out winter roof maintenance isn’t just a good idea – it’s essential.

At CPM Trades, we’re proud to help homeowners across Bromley, Croydon, and surrounding areas keep their properties protected year-round. In this article, we’ll walk you through the top winter roof maintenance tips to safeguard your home and avoid costly repairs when you least need them.

1. Inspect Your Roof Before Problems Arise

The first step in effective winter roof maintenance is a thorough inspection. While it’s possible to carry out a basic visual check from ground level with binoculars, we always recommend a professional roof inspection to ensure nothing is missed – especially in December when conditions become harsher.

Look out for:

  • Cracked, missing, or slipped tiles

  • Sagging areas

  • Damaged flashing around chimneys and skylights

  • Moss build-up, which can hold moisture and cause tiles to lift

  • Blocked gutters or overflowing water

Even small issues can quickly escalate when exposed to repeated frost, wind, and rain. That’s why CPM Trades offers expert roof inspections, identifying potential weaknesses before they turn into serious problems.

2. Clear Gutters and Downpipes

Blocked gutters are one of the most common causes of winter roof issues. Fallen leaves, twigs, and moss can easily collect and clog your gutters and downpipes during autumn. When rainwater can’t drain properly, it backs up and can penetrate roof joints, walls, and even your home’s foundations.

Make sure all gutters and downpipes are cleared thoroughly. This is a service we offer as part of a full winter roof maintenance package, ensuring your drainage system functions correctly throughout the wetter months.

If you’ve already noticed water running down the side of your house, or internal damp patches, blocked or overflowing gutters could be the culprit.

3. Check Your Loft for Signs of Trouble

Don’t forget to inspect the inside of your home too. A quick look around your loft can reveal signs of roofing issues long before they become visible outside. Look out for:

  • Water stains or damp patches on the rafters

  • Signs of mould or mildew

  • Daylight showing through the roof boards

  • A musty smell, which may suggest poor ventilation or hidden leaks

If you spot any of these signs, it’s important to take action. Our roofing specialists in Bromley and Croydon can assess the situation and carry out timely repairs before more extensive damage occurs.

4. Trim Overhanging Branches

Overhanging trees present a year-round risk to your roof, but in winter the danger increases significantly. Storms, snow, or ice can weigh down branches and cause them to snap, potentially falling onto your roof and causing damage to tiles, guttering, or even structural elements.

Trimming trees away from your roof not only prevents direct damage but also helps reduce leaf and moss build-up in gutters.

At CPM Trades, we don’t just offer roofing – we also provide professional tree surgery services, making it easy to take care of your roof and your trees at the same time.

5. Book in for Minor Repairs Before They Worsen

Minor roofing issues are far easier and cheaper to fix than major ones. Whether it’s a single broken tile or a small patch of flashing that needs resealing, winter weather can quickly exacerbate the problem.

December is a particularly bad time to discover you have a leaking roof, not only due to the wet weather but also because festive holidays can delay repair times.

If you’re unsure whether you need a repair or just want peace of mind heading into the New Year, our team is happy to offer free advice and no-obligation quotes for roof repairs across South London and Kent.

6. Consider Roof Cleaning

Moss and algae not only make your roof look unsightly, but they also trap moisture, which can lead to rot and broken tiles in freezing conditions. A professional roof clean can improve the appearance of your property while also extending the life of your roof.

We provide safe and effective roof cleaning in Bromley and surrounding areas, using equipment that protects your tiles while removing organic growth.

7. Don’t Forget Flat Roofs

If your property has a flat roof, it needs just as much attention – if not more. Flat roofs are prone to pooling water, which can freeze and expand in winter, increasing the risk of cracks and leaks.

Regular inspections, especially after storms or heavy rainfall, can prevent water ingress. If your flat roof is more than 10–15 years old, now may be the time to consider an upgrade to a more modern, weather-resistant system.

Why Winter Roof Maintenance Matters

A small investment of time and care in December can save you thousands in emergency repairs down the line. Taking a proactive approach with the help of a trusted local company like CPM Trades ensures your roof remains in top condition throughout the season – whatever the British weather throws at it.

Book Your Roof Check Today

Whether you need minor roof repairs, a full inspection, or gutter clearance, CPM Trades is here to help. Based in Croydon, we cover Bromley, Beckenham, Shirley, and surrounding areas with fast, friendly, and professional roofing services.

Get in touch today to arrange your winter roof maintenance visit and enjoy a worry-free festive season.