Category Uncategorized

Maxwells Roofing’s annual preventative roof care packages give Milton Keynes homeowners and landlords a simple way to stop leaks before they start, extend roof life, and stay aligned with UK regulations. Each year, a qualified, owner-led team inspects your roof, completes routine maintenance and minor fixes, cleans gutters, and provides a clear photo report—plus priority call-outs during storms.

Key benefits
- Prevent leaks and damp by catching cracked tiles, slipped slates, perished flashings, blocked gutters, and flat roof defects early
- Extend lifespan of tile, slate, and flat roofs (EPDM, felt, GRP)
- Lower lifetime costs vs emergency repairs and internal redecoration
- Improve comfort and efficiency by checking ventilation and insulation opportunities
- Smooth insurance and warranty discussions with dated photo reports
- Clear guidance on UK Building Regulations when works cross thresholds
- Predictable budgeting and stronger buyer/surveyor confidence

What’s included
- Full roof survey (tiles/slates, ridges/hips/verges, valleys, flashings, chimneys, roofline, penetrations, flat roof membranes)
- Gutter clear and flush; minor gutter repairs
- Minor fixes included by fair-usage allowance (e.g., small number of tiles, short flashing reseals, short verge/gutter sections)
- Drone imagery where appropriate
- Digital photo report and practical recommendations
- Priority call-out after severe weather

Local issues we prevent
- Wind-lifted tiles/ridges in Newport Pagnell, Great Linford, Bradwell
- Flat roof ponding/blistering on garages and extensions across MK
- Autumn leaf blockages in Stony Stratford and Bletchley
- Perished lead flashings in older Bedford and Northampton homes
- Loft condensation from inadequate ventilation

Annual checklist
- Pitched roofs, flat roofs (EPDM/felt/GRP), chimneys/flashings
- Roofline/gutters, penetrations/roof windows
- Ventilation/moisture and structural red flags

Regulations and compliance
- Advice across Parts A (Structure), B (Fire—e.g., Broof(t4) for flat roofs where required), C (Moisture), F (Ventilation), L (Energy)
- Building Control typically required if refurbishing >25% of a roof or for structural alterations; guidance provided
- Competent Person Scheme routes and manufacturer-approved materials followed where applicable

Who benefits
- Homeowners, landlords/agents, vendors, commercial sites, and new homeowners

How it works
1) Free initial visit and fixed quote
2) Book your first service
3) Safe access, survey, and included maintenance
4) Digital photo report
5) Priority response during storms
6) Annual reminders

Package options
- Essential: Survey, gutter clear/flush, minor fixes, photo report, priority call-out
- Plus: Adds larger allowance and optional drone imagery
- Premium: Adds extended allowance, mid-year check, pre/post-storm inspections on request
- Pricing tailored to roof size, access, height, and complexity

Trusted local team
- Family-owned, owner-led by Luke Maxwell
- Fully insured, tidy workmanship, 80+ 5-star Checkatrade reviews and 5-star Google ratings
- Serving Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell, Bedford, Luton, Northampton and nearby areas

FAQs (quick answers)
- How often? Every 12 months and after severe storms.
- Are minor repairs included? Yes, with a fair-usage allowance; larger works quoted clearly.
- Flat and pitched roofs? Yes—tile, slate, EPDM, felt, and GRP.
- Building Control? We advise and help when works require notification; routine maintenance typically doesn’t.

Call 07311091804 for a free quote or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk.

Worried about your chimney? This practical Milton Keynes guide from Maxwells Roofing (owner-led by Luke Maxwell, 80+ five-star reviews) shows how to spot issues early, what they mean, and how we repair them properly. If you notice any of the following, book a free inspection.

Quick-check signs your chimney needs attention:
- Spalling or flaking bricks; missing/cracked mortar
- White powdery staining (efflorescence)
- Damp patches, brown/yellow ceiling stains, peeling paint
- Musty smells after rain
- Split, lifted or missing lead flashing
- Cracked/missing flaunching; loose or damaged chimney pots
- Rust streaks, soot staining, poor draw or smoke blow-back
- Leaning or unstable stacks (safety risk)
- Birds’ nests, missing cowls, debris or falling fragments

What we fix:
- Repointing (lime or cement), partial/full rebuilds
- New lead flashing (steps, soakers, back gutters, apron)
- Flaunching/crown renewal and correct falls
- Pot replacement, bird-guards and anti-downdraft cowls
- Breathable rendering/weatherproofing
- Targeted leak tracing, photo/video reports
- Safe chimney removal to below roof where appropriate

How we work:
- Free survey (roof-level and drone if needed), clear photos and plain-English advice
- Fixed, transparent quotes; safe access arranged
- Repairs tested where appropriate and photographed on completion
- Local aftercare and maintenance tips

Done properly:
- Works follow Parts A, B, C, F and L of UK Building Regulations as relevant
- We advise when Building Control applies (e.g., structural changes or >25% roof refurb)
- Happy to coordinate with your flue/appliance specialist

Costs depend on access, scope, materials and condition. Surveys and quotes are free and no-obligation. Serving Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Stony Stratford, Bletchley, Great Linford, Bradwell, Bedford, Northampton, Luton and nearby.

Call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk for a fast, free quote.

Flat roof ponding is water that remains on a roof 48+ hours after rain. It shows up as shallow “bird baths,” tide marks, algae staining, or soft spots. Left untreated, it shortens membrane life, raises leak risk and adds weight. If you’re seeing puddles days after rain, call 07311091804 for a free, no‑obligation survey.

Common causes we find across Milton Keynes, Northampton, Bedford, Luton and nearby:
- Inadequate or lost falls (design 1:40 to achieve min 1:80 finished, per BS 6229)
- Blocked/undersized outlets and no overflows (BS EN 12056-3 drainage capacity)
- Deck deflection or sag in timber/concrete
- Trapping water at parapets, thresholds and edges
- Flat or compressed insulation removing falls
- Workmanship issues: bridged outlets, lipped patches, wrinkles
- Skylights/plant interrupting drainage paths
- Blistering/thermal movement on older felt
- Settlement on newer extensions changing falls

Why ponding is risky:
- Faster UV/thermal wear on EPDM, GRP, felt and liquids
- Higher leak likelihood at seams, outlets and penetrations
- Extra load: 10 mm of water ≈ 10 kg/m²
- Greater condensation/cold-bridge risk
- Possible warranty exclusions for chronic standing water

How we diagnose (we measure, not guess):
- Visual survey, photos and moisture readings
- Drone overview where suitable
- Level mapping to find depressions
- Outlet/gutter checks and flow tests
- Membrane integrity checks at details
- Optional core sample to assess deck and build-up
- Drainage capacity review vs local rainfall guidance

Proven ways we fix ponding:
- Drainage upgrades: add outlets/sumps, fit scuppers, debris guards, set outlet heights correctly
- Create falls: tapered insulation, timber firrings with new sheathing, or polymer‑modified screeds
- New waterproofing: EPDM, GRP, RBM (torch-on or heat‑free), or liquid systems; specified for fire performance (e.g., Broof(t4))
- Strengthen/replace weakened decks and treat timbers
- Raise/re-detail upstands (aim 150 mm), flashings, thresholds and parapets
- Targeted local re‑grading for isolated “bird baths”

Which system is best?
- EPDM: few seams, fast on larger simple roofs
- GRP: neat, tough and excellent at edges/upstands
- RBM felt: multi‑layer robustness, heat‑free options
- Liquids: ideal for complex penetrations and local re‑grading

Compliance and safety:
- Part A (Structure), Part B (Fire), Part C (Moisture), Part F (Ventilation), Part L (Insulation upgrades if >25% refurbished)
- We advise and liaise with Building Control when required

Maintenance to prevent return:
- Clear gutters/outlets twice yearly and after storms
- Fit outlet guards; remove debris and moss
- Avoid stored loads; limit foot traffic
- Check rooflights/flashings annually; reseal as needed
- Professional inspection every 12–24 months

Why choose Maxwells Roofing:
- Local, owner‑led by Luke Maxwell; fully insured
- Fast attendance for leaks and ponding issues
- Premium, compliant systems; tidy, transparent work
- 80+ five‑star Checkatrade reviews; 5★ on Google

Case study (Bletchley, 24 m² extension):
- Issue: 15–20 mm ponding, 14‑year felt, undersized outlets, mild deck sag
- Fix: Tapered PIR to min 1:80 fall, new sump and overflow scupper, 6 m² re‑deck, single‑piece EPDM, 150 mm upstands, new lead flashings
- Result: No standing water after rain, better insulation, manufacturer-backed warranty; 2‑day turnaround

FAQs at a glance:
- Not all ponding needs a re‑roof; many are solved with drainage and local re‑grading
- Same‑day/next‑day surveys often available
- Chronic ponding can void warranties—removal protects your investment
- Typical falls: design 1:40 to achieve ≥1:80 finished
- Costs vary by size/access/scope; fixed quotes after inspection
- Building Control usually needed if >25% replaced or structure altered

Service areas: Milton Keynes, Northampton, Bedford, Luton, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Great Linford, Bradwell and nearby villages.

Call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk to book your free survey.

Blocked downpipes don’t just spill water outside—they drive moisture behind fascias and into walls and foundations, causing leaks, damp, timber rot, mould, frost damage and even subsidence. These problems are preventable with timely cleaning, correct falls, and swift repairs.

By Luke Maxwell, Owner at Maxwells Roofing, Milton Keynes
80+ 5-star Checkatrade reviews | 5-star on Google Business

What commonly causes blockages in Milton Keynes
- Leaf litter and twigs (Great Linford, Campbell Park, mature plots)
- Moss from tiled roofs after dry spells then heavy rain
- Grit/granules from aged felt/asphalt
- Bird nests and wind-blown debris
- Winter slush that compacts into spring sludge
- Misaligned joints, perished seals, undersized hoppers

Hidden risks if you leave it
- Penetrating damp into plaster/insulation
- Timber decay to fascia/soffits/rafters
- Spalled bricks, eroded pointing, frost damage
- Ground saturation and foundation movement
- Mould/allergens indoors
- Slip hazards and ice on paths
- Insurance issues where maintenance is neglected

How to spot a blockage
- During rain: overflows, corner “waterfalls”, glugging
- After rain: damp lines, green algae trails, silt at the shoe, musty smells
- Visual: sagging gutters, split joints, rust streaks, cracked brackets, peeling interior paint
- Ground: pooling or soft bands along walls

Safe first steps
- Move valuables, catch drips, protect floors
- Clear visible leaves at the shoe/grid
- Check water butt diverters aren’t backing up
- Avoid ladders in bad weather and high-pressure jetting

How we diagnose and fix (same/next day where possible)
- Visual survey and controlled water test
- Safe access (ladders/towers/MEWPs), fully insured
- Bottom-up rodding, sectional disassembly, wet-vac, low-pressure flush
- Root-cause checks (falls, seals, outlets, hoppers, gulley traps)
- On-the-spot repairs and prevention advice

Repairs and upgrades
- uPVC, cast iron, aluminium downpipes
- New unions/gaskets/solvent-welds
- Upsized hoppers/outlets, extra brackets, realigned gutters
- Leaf/balloon guards, gutter brush/micro-mesh
- Drain/soakaway interface checks and redirection
- Water butt diverter servicing

Standards and best practice
- Work aligned to UK Building Regulations intent: Parts C, A, B, F, L
- Guidance on when Building Control applies for larger refurbishments

DIY vs pro
- Ground-level clearing is fine; at height, risks and hidden causes make professional help safer and more cost-effective.

Seasonal plan
- Sept/Oct: pre-leaf fall clear and check falls/brackets
- Nov: second clear for tree-heavy plots; fit/inspect guards
- Mar/Apr: remove winter sludge, check frost damage, reseal joints
- After storms: quick visual check for overflows or cracks

Case study (Bletchley)
- Corrected gutter fall, upsized hopper/outlet, cleared mid-joint plug, fitted balloon guard—no further overflows; interior dried and was redecorated.

Areas covered
Milton Keynes (all estates), Newport Pagnell, Stony Stratford, Bletchley, Great Linford, Bradwell, Bedford, Northampton, Luton, and nearby villages.

Stop damp and avoidable repairs. Call for a free quote: 07311091804
Email: sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk

Regular roof inspections catch small faults before they become leaks, damp, and costly interior damage. This Milton Keynes guide explains what’s checked, how inspections save money, when to book one, and why choosing a local specialist matters.

Key points covered:
- What a roof inspection includes: external coverings (tiles/slates, ridges, hips, valleys, flashings, chimneys, skylights, flat roof membranes like EPDM/GRP/felt), roofline (gutters, downpipes, fascia/soffits), and loft checks for staining, damp, insulation, and ventilation. Drone photos used where appropriate. You receive clear images and a plain‑English report.
- Six ways inspections save money: early leak detection, longer roof lifespan, lower energy bills (dry insulation and proper ventilation), fewer emergency callouts, support for insurance/warranties, and preserved property value.
- Signs you need one now: missing/slipped tiles, water marks or musty loft, overflowing or sagging gutters, debris in gutters, flat roof ponding/blisters, chimney mortar issues, after storms, or if the roof is 15+ years old.
- How often: every 12–24 months (yearly for older or flat roofs, or near trees), plus after severe weather. Pair with gutter cleaning in autumn; a spring check confirms winter performance.
- Local issues we find: wind‑lifted verge tiles, ridge mortar fatigue, slate nail sickness, ageing flashings, flat roof ponding/edge failures, chimney leaks, gutter joint failures and blockages.
- Regulations: advice aligned with UK Building Regulations (Parts A, B, C, F, L). Building Control typically needed when replacing over 25% of the covering, structural changes, rooflights, or solar. Competent Person routes may apply.
- Process: quick booking, on‑time site visit, external and internal surveys, photos and findings, clear priorities, no‑obligation quote, and optional maintenance plan.
- Pricing: inspections and quotes are free locally. Repair costs vary by roof type, access, materials, and detail complexity. No hidden fees.
- Why Maxwells Roofing: owner‑led by Luke Maxwell, highly reviewed (80+ 5★ on Checkatrade; 5★ on Google), insured and qualified, transparent communication, durable materials.
- DIY vs professional: safe ground‑level checks are fine; don’t climb or walk on roofs. Professionals add safe access, diagnostics, and documentation.
- Quick maintenance checklist: clear gutters annually, trim branches, check after storms, look in the loft twice a year, and book a professional inspection every 12–24 months.
- Areas served: Milton Keynes, Northampton, Bedford, Luton, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Great Linford, Bradwell, and nearby villages.
- FAQs answered: duration (30–90 mins), drone use, non‑invasive methods, recommended frequency, coverage area, same‑day minor fixes, insurance, and photo‑backed quotes.
- Book: Call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk for a free inspection and quote.

A practical Milton Keynes homeowner’s guide to hiring a roofer. It gives you 10 essential questions to ask before you commit, with clear examples of good answers, common red flags, and how Maxwells Roofing does each step. Use it to compare quotes fairly, check UK Building Regulations compliance, and protect your home.

What’s inside
- The 10 must-ask questions:
1) Local presence, insurance, and recent MK references
2) Which Building Regulations apply and who handles Building Control
3) Best-fit roofing system/materials for your property and why
4) What’s included/excluded in the quote
5) Workmanship and manufacturer warranties
6) Safety, access, weather protection, and tidy site management
7) Who’s on-site daily and who supervises quality
8) Process for unexpected issues and variations
9) Timeline from survey to sign-off
10) Aftercare and maintenance

- Building Regulations at a glance: Parts A (Structure), B (Fire), C (Moisture), F (Ventilation), L (Energy/insulation when >25% replaced), plus when Building Control notification and certificates are needed.

- Why choose Maxwells Roofing:
- Local, family-run, owner-led by Luke Maxwell
- Fully insured, trained team, premium materials
- 80+ 5-star Checkatrade reviews and 5-star only on Google Business
- Transparent, itemised quotes with clear inclusions/exclusions
- Fast response for leaks (same/next day where possible)
- Full-service: repairs, re-roofs, flat roofs (EPDM/GRP/felt), gutters, skylights, fascias/soffits, chimney repairs, inspections/drone surveys

- Quick checklist you can use on any roofer to verify references, insurance, Building Regs plan, quote detail, warranties, site safety, supervision, variation control, timelines, and aftercare.

Service area: Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell, Bedford, Northampton, Luton, and nearby villages.

For friendly advice and a free, itemised quote:
Call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk
Author: Luke Maxwell, Owner. Last updated: 18 November 2025.

A small roof drip rarely stays small. Once rain gets past your tiles or flat roof covering, it can travel along rafters and membranes, wick through timber and insulation, and finally show up as stains far from the real entry point. This guide explains how leaks spread, the early signs to watch for, what to do in the first 48 hours, and how Maxwell’s Roofing finds and fixes the true source.

Key points
- How water travels: gravity, capillary action (wicking), wind‑driven rain, and surface tension on underlays; loft condensation can mimic a leak.
- Likely entry points: slipped or cracked tiles/slates, flashing and abutment faults, valleys/hips, ridges/verges, skylights, flat roof seams and upstands, blocked/misaligned gutters, and chimney defects.
- What gets wet: covering → underlay → battens → rafters → insulation → plasterboard → interior finishes/electrics. Fast storm leaks can show in hours; slow wicking may take weeks and depend on wind direction.
- Early warning signs: ceiling tide marks, peeling paint/bubbling plaster, musty smells, mould at ceiling edges, drips near lights (isolate the circuit), damp insulation, rust trails on nails, missing tiles, algae trails from overflowing gutters, and flat roof ponding after 48 hours.
- First 24–48 hours: keep clear of electrics and wet roofs, catch drips, don’t pierce a bulging ceiling, photograph damage, and call for help.

How Maxwell’s Roofing resolves leaks
- Systematic diagnostics: external checks, loft survey, moisture mapping, drone/camera where needed, and controlled water testing when safe.
- Clear report with photos, diagnosis, and repair options.
- Repairs and prevention: tile/slate replacement, leadwork and abutment fixes, valley renewal, ridge/verge upgrades, skylight remedials, EPDM/felt/GRP flat roof recovery, underlay/batten replacement, ventilation and insulation improvements, gutter/fascia/soffit works, and internal drying/making good.
- Compliance: work aligned with UK Building Regulations, including Part A (structure), Part B (fire performance—e.g., BROOF(t4) for flat roofs), Part C (moisture), Part F (ventilation), and Part L (insulation upgrades when 25%+ of the covering is replaced). Building control is typically needed when refurbishing 25%+ of the roof.

Why local homeowners choose Maxwell’s
- Owner‑led, local team serving Milton Keynes, Northampton, Bedford, Luton, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Great Linford and Bradwell.
- 80+ 5★ Checkatrade reviews and 5★ on Google.
- Fast response, transparent pricing, fully insured, and experienced across all roof types.

Need help now? Call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk for a friendly, no‑obligation quote.

Blocked gutters turn winter rain into leaks, damp, and costly roofline damage. This page from Maxwells Roofing explains why pre-winter gutter cleaning matters for Milton Keynes homes and how our insured, owner‑led team (80+ 5★ Checkatrade, only 5★ on Google) can help.

Key points covered:
- Why clean before winter: Prevent overflow, protect fascias/soffits, reduce internal damp, avoid winter emergencies, and extend gutter life.
- Risks if you don’t: Leaks under tiles, rotten timber, foundation/landscaping issues, ice build-up strain, pests, and potential insurance complications.
- Signs you need a clean now: Overflow in rain, plants/moss in gutters, black wall streaks, sagging joints, drips, loft damp, and slow downpipes.
- DIY vs professional: Safe for simple single-storey light debris; call a pro for multi-storey, leaks/sagging, blocked downpipes, awkward access, or when you want photos and a full roofline check.
- Our 8-step process: Survey, safe access, debris removal, flush test, minor fixes, roofline check, photos/advice, and optional quotes for repairs/guards/roof inspection.
- Regulations and best practice: We work to UK Building Regulations where relevant (Part C moisture, Part F ventilation, Part A structure, Part L insulation on larger works) and manufacturer guidance.
- How often to clean locally: Typically twice a year (autumn/spring); more often near mature trees or after storms; add to landlord maintenance plans.
- Gutter guards: Reduce large debris but don’t remove the need for periodic cleaning; correct specification and fitting are essential.
- Winter-ready checklist: Clear gutters, flush downpipes, check/repair joints and brackets, inspect fascias/soffits and ventilation, spot slipped tiles/flashings, ensure correct discharge.
- Local case study (Newport Pagnell): Clean, reseal joints, clear downpipe, tighten brackets; overflow stopped and damp patch dried within days.
- Pricing and availability: Free, no‑obligation quotes; cost varies by size, access, debris, repairs, and guards. Same/next‑day slots where possible.
- Areas covered: Milton Keynes (all estates/villages), Newport Pagnell, Stony Stratford, Bletchley, Great Linford, Bradwell, Bedford, Northampton, Luton.

Book your pre-winter clean:
- Call 07311091804
- Email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk
Owner-led by Luke Maxwell. Fully insured, tidy, and local.

Wondering how long your Milton Keynes roof should last? This guide explains realistic lifespans by material, what shortens a roof’s life, simple maintenance wins, when to repair vs replace, and how UK Building Regulations apply. It also includes a local case study, clear warranties/paperwork info, and why local homeowners choose Maxwells Roofing.

Typical roof lifespans in MK
- Concrete interlocking tiles: 40–60 years
- Clay tiles: 60–100 years
- Natural slate: 75–150 years
- Fibre-cement slate: 25–40 years
- Pitched roof underlay/membranes: 25–40 years
- Flat roofs (torch-on felt): 15–25 years
- EPDM rubber: 20–30+ years
- GRP fibreglass: 20–30+ years
- Lead flashings/valleys: 40–70 years

What most affects roof life
- Workmanship and materials (correct fixings, quality membranes)
- Exposure and wind load on ridges/verges
- Ventilation and insulation (condensation control)
- Drainage (gutters/outlets), moss, shade/trees
- Foot traffic/satellite fixings and general age-related fatigue

Maintenance that extends life
- 12–24 month inspections and post-storm checks
- Gutter cleaning; chimney repointing/leadwork
- Professional moss removal; check valleys and roof windows
- Keep flat roof outlets clear; watch for ponding/blistering

Repair vs replace
- Repair when issues are localised and the roof is within its expected life
- Replace when leaks are recurrent, underlay/fixings fail, or >25% is being refurbished

Building Regulations
- Key parts: A (Structure), B (Fire), C (Moisture), F (Ventilation), L (Insulation)
- Notifiable when refurbishing >25% of the roof, altering structure, or adding PV; we guide compliance and paperwork

Why Maxwells Roofing
- Family-owned, owner-led by Luke Maxwell
- 80+ 5★ Checkatrade reviews and 5★ on Google
- Repairs, re-roofs, flat roofing (EPDM, felt, GRP), gutters, fascias/soffits, skylights, chimneys
- Serving Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell, Northampton, Bedford, Luton

For a free inspection and clear advice, call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk.

A clear, plain‑English starter guide for Milton Keynes homeowners comparing EPDM rubber, GRP fibreglass, and torch‑on felt flat roofs. It explains how each system performs, where it works best, key pros and cons, and what matters most before you choose, including UK Building Regulations and insulation options.

Quick comparison
- EPDM: Best for large, simple roofs (extensions, garages). Minimal seams, flexible, fast to install. Needs protection from sharp objects; functional black finish.
- GRP: Best for crisp looks, balconies (with anti‑slip), complex details. Seamless, rigid, highly durable. Requires stable deck and suitable weather.
- Felt (RBM): Best for budget‑friendly re‑roofs and layered resilience. Proven performance, adapts to complex shapes. Hot works need strict fire safety; aim for Broof(t4) systems.

What to consider
- Use, size, access, and foot traffic
- Local weather, falls and outlets to prevent ponding
- Detailing around skylights, parapets, and penetrations
- Building Regulations: Part A (structure), B (fire), C (moisture), F (ventilation), L (energy)
- Budget vs lifespan and total value

Insulation and build‑ups
- Warm roof (recommended): insulation above deck, lower condensation risk, easier Part L compliance
- Cold roof: insulation below deck, must be correctly ventilated
- Inverted roof: waterproofing below insulation for terraces/traffic areas
- If refurbishing >25% or altering thermal elements, notify Building Control

What’s covered for each system
- What it is, benefits, considerations, typical applications, lifespan and maintenance

Drainage, detailing, and skylights
- Formed falls, correctly sized outlets, robust upstands, compatible trims
- Supply and installation of skylights and roof lanterns with integrated waterproofing

How your project runs
- Survey and options, transparent quote, compliance planning, preparation, installation, quality checks, and aftercare/warranty

Why choose Maxwells Roofing
- Local, owner‑led team (Luke Maxwell)
- 80+ 5‑star Checkatrade ratings and 5‑star Google reviews
- Compliance‑first specifications, premium materials, rapid leak response
- Full service: repairs, re‑roofs, skylights, fascia/soffits, gutters, chimney work, inspections
- Areas covered: Milton Keynes, Bletchley, Newport Pagnell, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell, Bedford, Northampton, Luton, and nearby villages

Questions answered
- Which system is best, how long roofs last, when Building Control applies, condensation and insulation choices, winter installations, areas covered, and skylight integration

For friendly advice or a free quote: call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk.

Is your loft icy in winter, stuffy in summer, or musty after cold nights? This guide explains the real reasons lofts feel cold, what UK Building Regulations expect, and the straightforward fixes Maxwells Roofing delivers across Milton Keynes and nearby towns.

Key causes of a cold or damp loft
- Insulation too thin (below ~270 mm mineral wool equivalent) or compressed under boards
- Gaps at eaves, corners and around downlights; draughty loft hatches and service penetrations
- Wind washing at the eaves flushing heat across insulation
- Blocked/insufficient ventilation leading to condensation and timber risk
- Wet or slumped insulation from minor leaks or condensation
- Thermal bridges at joists/rafters/steelwork; open‑backed downlights
- Cold‑deck flat roofs with poor vapour control

How insulation actually works
- It traps air to resist heat flow. It only performs when it is thick enough, continuous, and protected from air movement.
- Pair insulation with airtightness at the hatch/penetrations and maintain proper ventilation to manage moisture.

Quick checks you can do today
- Depth: do you see ~270–300 mm everywhere?
- Eaves: are soffit vents blocked by insulation?
- Damp clues: musty smells, dark patches, or frost on nail tips after cold snaps
- Loft hatch: insulated and draught‑sealed?
- Downlights: older open‑backed fittings need covers before topping up

Recommended specification (typical cold loft)
- 270–300 mm mineral wool (or PIR equivalent)
- Insulated, draught‑sealed loft hatch
- Rigid eaves baffles to preserve a 50 mm ventilation path
- Lagging to tanks, pipes and ductwork
- Fire‑rated downlight covers; detailing at party walls and chimney edges

Ventilation and regulations
- Keep continuous airflow via soffit/ridge or tile vents; extract bathrooms/kitchens to outside.
- Use a sensible vapour control strategy where practical.
- Aligns with Approved Documents C (moisture), F (ventilation) and L (energy). Building Control typically applies if you replace >25% of the roof or alter structure.

Flat vs pitched roofs
- Cold lofts insulate at ceiling level; rooms in the roof and flat roofs often need warm‑roof build‑ups to reduce condensation risk.

Boarding for storage without losing performance
- Use a raised system above the insulation and keep eaves ventilation clear.

Our process
- Free survey, detailed assessment, clear specification and quote, professional installation, photo aftercare.

Typical timescales (guide)
- Mineral wool top‑up and hatch sealing: half to 1 day (typical 3‑bed)
- Eaves baffles and tile/ridge vents: about 1 day
- Raised storage decks: add half to a full day (area dependent)

Local case study: Newport Pagnell semi
- Issues: thin, patchy 100 mm insulation, blocked eaves, leaky hatch, open‑backed downlights.
- Fix: ~300 mm mineral wool in two layers, rigid eaves baffles, insulated sealed hatch, fire‑rated downlight covers, two low‑profile tile vents.
- Result: warmer bedrooms, fresher loft, noticeable energy savings; completed in one day with full clean‑down.

Serving Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell, Bedford, Northampton, Luton and nearby villages. Owner‑led by Luke Maxwell with 80+ 5‑star Checkatrade reviews and 5‑star Google feedback.

Call 07311091804 for a free survey, or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk.

A practical guide for Milton Keynes homeowners to spot and avoid cowboy roofers, verify a contractor properly, and make sure your roof work meets UK Building Regulations. It explains common scams, what a professional quote looks like, how to pay safely, and how Maxwells Roofing protects you from start to finish.

Key points covered:
- What a “cowboy roofer” is: doorstepping after storms, cash-only to a personal account, no written quote or company details, pressure to decide today, vague on regulations and guarantees.
- 10-point pre-hire checklist: full company details; proof of public liability insurance; written survey and itemised quote; verified 5★ reviews; clear grasp of Parts A, B, C, F, L; defined responsibilities for scaffolding/permits/waste; named materials and warranties; realistic timescales; staged payments with final after sign-off; written guarantees.
- Milton Keynes-specific risks: storm chasers, “no scaffolding needed” claims, mismatched materials across local areas, and quotes that are suspiciously cheap.
- Verifying a roofer: request insurance certificates, read consistent Checkatrade/Google reviews, ask for before/after examples, confirm training/manufacturer approvals and local trading history.
- Quotes and contracts: include site findings, detailed scope and materials (e.g., BS 5534 fixings, correct lead codes, EPDM/GRP systems), access/safety, compliance route, timelines, staged payments, and warranties. Red flags include one-line quotes and cash-upfront discounts.
- Building Regulations: usually apply when >25% of the roof is replaced. Key parts: A (structure), B (fire), C (moisture), F (ventilation), L (insulation upgrades). Compliance via Local Authority Building Control or a Competent Person Scheme (BRCC issued).
- On-the-day red flags: surprise price hikes without evidence, missing edge protection, messy/rushed work, stripping too much before bad weather, cash demands mid-job. How to respond: pause, request written variations with photos, document progress, seek a second opinion if pressured.
- Paying safely and aftercare: pay the company (not individuals), use staged milestones, keep all documents (quote, insurance, BRCC/CPS certificate, warranties), and book inspections every 12–24 months.
- Areas served: Milton Keynes, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, Great Linford, Bradwell, Bedford, Northampton, Luton, and nearby villages.
- FAQs: free quotes, rapid leak response (same/next day where possible), full insurance, Building Regulations handled, all major roof types (tile, slate, EPDM, GRP, felt), Velux/roof lanterns, inspection frequency, and written labour/material warranties.

Maxwells Roofing is owner-led, fully insured, and 5★-rated (80+ reviews). Call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk for a free, no-obligation quote.