When Do You Need A Roof Plumber? + What makes them different to a regular plumber

Whenever you have any problems with your roof, the guy to call is a roofer, right?

Well, not always!

Some roof issues will call for a roofer, others a roof contractor, and a roof plumber for others. So, who do you call when? A roofing contractor is licensed to carry out pretty much all roof-related projects but is often part of a larger company or agency.

A roofer is much the same, only your contract with them is one on one, and they can be licensed or unlicensed. Generally, a roofer is anyone who works on roofs, whether trained, self-taught, or worse, learning on the job.

This leaves a roof plumber.

What is Roof Plumbing?

A roof plumber is a professional with specialised training in roof covering, metal roofing, drainage, downpipes, roof flashing, and guttering. They also have expertise in storm and rainwater.

Roof plumbers will also have training in working at height, and have, or develop an eye for reading blueprints and diagrams relating to drainage systems.

What’s The Difference between Roof Plumbing and Regular Plumbing?

Most people think about sinks, bathtubs, and toilets when plumbing is mentioned. However, we also have a branch of plumbing called roof plumbing. What’s the difference between the two?

The first difference is scope.

Regular plumbing is what we commonly think about, with sinks, bathtubs, toilet installation, repairs, and maintenance. These are indoors. Roof plumbing is outdoor. Think flushing, gutters, and so on.

Another difference is in training. Roofers can take on regular plumbing projects, and roofers can be trained and licensed, unlicensed, untrained, or both untrained and unlicensed. However, roof plumbers must be trained and licensed. The scope of their training is also adapted to their job sites, which means they get working at-height training, over and above task-related training. Additionally, roof plumbers get a formal education on roof-related building codes, stormwater management, and water flow dynamics.

Signs of Poor Roof Plumbing

As a homeowner, you want to catch and fix problems as early as possible. Failing to do this allows budding problems to grow into larger, more expensive issues. This is true for all areas of your house, including the roof.

But how can you tell if you have poor roof plumbing? Here are some tell-tale signs of poor roof plumbing.

1. A leaking Roof

A leaking roof is a flashing neon sign that something is wrong with your roof. A roof leak can be a slow leak where you begin to notice a little moisture, or it can be a steady stream of water getting into your home. Other signs of a leaking roof are stained ceiling and mould and mildew.

While water gushing into your home would seem more pressing, any signs of a leaking roof are an emergency, and you should get a roof plumber on it.

It’s also advisable to have a roof inspection every six months. This will flag any prospective problems, and they can be fixed long before they become a problem.

2. Blocked Gutters

Gutters are responsible for water management. When it rains or during a storm, gutters will clear water away from your roof, walls, and foundation.

Blocked gutters are unable to function properly, meaning water will pool towards the edge of the roof. This causes undue strain on your roof and can cause a leak or can cause the affected part of the roof to cave under the weight. Malfunctioning gutters can also allow water to seep into walls, or the house’s foundation causing damage.

3. Structural Damage

Structural damage is anything that affects the liability, soundness, or structural integrity of your home. When it comes to your roof, sagging or warping on the beams or roofing materials is a sign of structural damage. These indicate that the roof’s structure is compromised at one point. If unattended by a roof plumber, the roof damage continues, damages other surrounding structures, and you are at risk of it caving inwards.

When would you need a Roof Plumber?

There are roof matters you can DIY; others need a roofer, and some will call for a roof plumber. Now, if your roofer can fix a leaky roof, under what circumstances should you call them instead of a roof plumber, and vice versa?

Here are some scenarios where a roof plumber is the go-to guy:

When you have a new construction, are undertaking extensive renovations, or want to do some buildouts, it’s good to work with a roof plumber. Part of their training includes looking at diagrams and making assessments for project viability. They can therefore offer valuable advice on your parameters.

Another instance when you should call a roof plumber is after your roof is damaged after a storm or other freak accident like a huge tree. The same goes for serious leaks.

Have a Problematic roof?

We understand that roofs are expensive, and you would wish that once installed, it gives you a good number of services. That’s exactly what we do at Supreme Roof Plumbing. We will professionally install your roof, conduct inspections, conduct repairs, and advise you on best practices to ensure you get the most wear out of your roof.

Should something go wrong, and you need an emergency roof plumber, contact us, and we will send a qualified roof plumber in no time.