New roofs in Merthyr Tydfil

What a re-roof involves

A full re-roof usually takes one to two weeks for a terraced or semi-detached house, depending on the weather. A typical job runs like this:

• Scaffolding goes up, usually front and back
• The old slates or tiles, battens and felt come off, and the roofer checks the timbers underneath
• Rotten rafters or boards are replaced (they should be quoted separately once seen)
• A breathable membrane and new treated battens go on
• New tiles or slates are fixed, with new ridge, hips, valleys and lead flashing
• Gutters and roofline are checked, the site is cleared and the scaffolding comes down

Tiles or slate?

Concrete tiles are the cheapest option and last 40–60 years. Natural slate looks right on older Merthyr terraces and lasts far longer, but costs 30–50% more, with Welsh slate at the top of the range. If you live in a conservation area, such as Thomastown or Pontmorlais, check the council’s conservation area map before changing the look of your roof.

Comparing quotes

Make sure each quote covers the same things: scaffolding, skip hire, membrane type, whether ridges are mortar or dry-fixed, how much timber replacement is allowed for, and the guarantee. A cheap quote that leaves out scaffolding or lead work is not cheap.

Further reading

The new roof price guide has prices by house type and material. Check our planning permission guide if you live in a conservation area or are changing the roof, and the repair or replace guide if you are not sure you need a new roof.