Roof replacement becomes necessary when existing coverings can no longer keep out wind-driven rain or when structural timber has been affected by prolonged damp conditions typical along the Atlantic coast. Properties in Galway and Mayo often carry natural slate that has reached the end of its service life after decades of exposure to salt-laden air and repeated storms. In these cases a complete strip and re-cover restores weather tightness while allowing inspection and treatment of rafters and battens underneath.
The work may include removal of the old covering, assessment and repair of the roof structure, installation of new underlay and battens, and fitting of replacement slate, clay tiles or single-ply membrane on flat areas. Ridge and hip tiles are re-bedded in mortar or mechanical clips, and lead flashings are renewed at abutments and chimneys. On agricultural buildings corrugated sheeting is frequently replaced with modern insulated panels to improve condensation control.
Common reasons for replacement include widespread nail sickness in older slate roofs, cracked or slipped tiles after winter gales, and failure of felt or asphalt on flat roofs over extensions and outbuildings. Persistent algae and moss can trap moisture against the surface, accelerating decay of timber and pointing. Coastal exposure in Sligo and Leitrim accelerates corrosion of metal fixings, often making piecemeal repair uneconomic.
What Affects Scope and Cost
Factors include the pitch and complexity of the roof, access for scaffolding on two-storey or dormer properties, the need to replace or treat rafters, and whether chimney stacks or parapets require rebuilding. Agricultural sheds may need purlin strengthening before new cladding can be fitted.
Residential, Commercial and Agricultural Relevance
Domestic houses, village shops with living accommodation above, small manufacturing units and farm buildings all appear regularly. Each building type brings different loading requirements and planning considerations typical in the west of Ireland.
Technician insight
In Galway the thing that catches most people out with Roof Replacement is the hidden rot in rafters on 1930s and 1950s houses once the old slate comes off; the Atlantic wind funnels straight through the gaps and the felt has long since failed.
Example Situation
For example, a property may show widespread slipped slate and water staining on ceilings after successive winter storms. Inspection reveals decayed battens and softened rafter ends. The covering is stripped, damaged timber is repaired, new underlay and slate are installed, and flashings are renewed to restore weather resistance.
Roof Replacement Services We Offer
✓Slate Roof Replacement
Strip and re-cover with new natural or fibre-cement slate, including new underlay and treated battens suited to high-wind areas.
✓Clay Tile Roof Replacement
Replacement of failed clay tiles with matching or upgraded tiles, incorporating new ridge ventilation where required.
✓Flat Roof Replacement
Removal of old felt or asphalt and installation of single-ply membrane or liquid-applied systems on extensions, garages and outbuildings.
✓Chimney Stack Rebuilding
Dismantle and rebuild unstable or leaning chimney stacks with new lead flashings and proper corbelling.
✓Ridge and Hip Replacement
Renewal of damaged ridge and hip tiles with mechanical fixing or mortar bedding to resist Atlantic gales.
✓Corrugated Sheeting Replacement
Replacement of corroded corrugated iron or asbestos sheeting on farm buildings with insulated metal panels.
How it works
- 1
Site Survey
Measure the roof, note defects and check for rot or structural issues.
- 2
Strip and Prepare
Remove existing covering, repair or replace damaged timber, fit new underlay and battens.
- 3
Install New Covering
Lay chosen slate, tile or membrane system with correct laps and fixings for the local wind zone.
- 4
Finishing and Weatherproofing
Bed or clip ridges, renew flashings, clear debris and carry out final inspection.
Pricing
Scope and cost depend on roof size, pitch, access, timber repairs required and choice of covering material.