Victorian Roof Inspection in Manchester Reveals Urgent Repairs Needed
Discover how our recent drone survey on a Victorian property uncovered serious roof issues — and why early detection saves money.
Maintaining a period property can be a challenge — especially when it comes to the roof. This week, Manchester Drone Surveys carried out an aerial inspection of a beautiful Victorian home in Eccles, Salford, and the results highlight why regular checks are so important.
The Property
The house was a large 5-bedroom detached Victorian property with traditional slate roofing.
At first glance, from groud level, the roof looked aged but intact. Our drone inspection survey revealed a different story.
Main Issues Identified
- Slipped and broken slates – Across all roof sections, with poor-quality patch repairs.
- Loose ridge and hip tiles – Mortar missing in several places, posing a risk in high winds.
- Non-standard repairs – Silicone and flashband used instead of proper flashing materials.
- Nail sickness – Rusted original nails no longer securing slates.
- Timber fatigue – A rear outrigger roof showed a visible dip, suggesting structural weakening.
- Gutter blockages – Caused by leaf debris from nearby mature trees.
- Chimney deterioration – Cracked mortar, frost damage, and old lead flashings.
Our Recommendation
While small repairs could address some issues temporarily, the extent of the problems means a full re-roof is the most cost-effective long-term solution. Salvaging reusable slates can help manage costs, and any re-roof should use traditional methods to preserve the building’s character.
Why a Drone Survey?
Our drone technology allowed us to capture close-up, high-resolution images of every fault — safely, quickly, and without the need for scaffolding. This means you get a detailed report and clear photographs to pass on to your roofer.
Protecting Your Property
If you own a Victorian or period home, we recommend having your roof inspected every 12–24 months. Early detection of issues like nail sickness, loose ridge tiles, or failing flashing can prevent costly water ingress and structural damage.
Book your drone inspection survey today with Manchester Drone Surveys — protect your roof, one flight at a time!