Everything about your roof, explained by the roofer himself

Birds usually nest in the space under the tiles at the eaves; a marten gets further into the structure and damages insulation. First find out what is there and whether it is breeding season, and only close the openings once nothing is inside any more.

Bird guards under the bottom row of tiles keep birds and martens out of the space between the tiles and the membrane. It is important that the guard stays permeable, because that is also where the ventilation air enters the roof.

Have an ordinary roof checked once a year, in late autumn. With lots of trees, a flat roof with many details or a roof older than thirty years, twice a year is wise. Also always check after a storm and after a long spell of rain.

A maintenance contract pays off mainly for a roof that is hard to reach, with lots of trees nearby, for a flat roof with many details and for rented property or an owners' association (VvE). For a simple house in an open setting, a one-off annual round is often enough.