Dormer gutter and various points of interest

Clean any gutter regularly. This prolongs the life of the material and prevents clogged drains, which can cause problems. If the gutter of the dormer window is dirty , there's a risk of flooding during heavy rainfall. The gutter should be cleaned thoroughly immediately.

• Clean gutters at least annually!
• Proper maintenance and cleaning of the gutters ensures a longer lifespan of the materials.

• Dormer roofing
• Dormer window, frame, glazing and side walls
• Dormer window, overhang, panel filling, other woodwork
• Lead flashing dormer (bottom of frame)

If water remains on the roof of the dormer window , the slope is not correct and/or the drain is not at the lowest point.

The drainage from the flat roof of the dormer window is routed via a so-called city outlet to the tiled roof or a connection to the rainwater drain. This outlet must be of sufficient length and properly connected. If there are any defects, there is a risk that water will drain too close to the dormer window or overhang and end up under the lead strips or in the structure.

Capillary action can cause moisture to rise higher than it normally would in constrictions or narrow spaces, particularly in tight connections where air is trapped. This mutual action can draw liquid (usually rainwater) upwards, downwards, and in horizontal paths. This poses a risk, potentially leading to wood rot (from the inside), a moisture problem, or other defects. Such defects are barely visible or localizable; sometimes they develop, and sometimes they resolve without any problems. In some cases, a defect is advanced before it becomes visible. A gap of 5mm to 7mm between materials is generally considered large enough to prevent capillary action.

Double glazing may be present with standard glazing beads. These standard glazing beads cause moisture and dirt to accumulate in the space between the frame and the pane. This prevents ventilation! In that case, we recommend installing ventilating glazing beads. The downside is that the paintwork will also need to be repaired afterward.

• Wood rot often only becomes visible when it is in an advanced stage.
• Even better is to install a nose strip! Because it extends over the entire sill, water ingress is prevented. It is also mounted a few millimeters above the wooden sill using plastic or rubber blocks. The result is a well-ventilated, dirt- and water-free solution.

There may be shortcomings in the lead used to create a waterproof seal on the roof surface. In some cases, the lead is installed too high or too long, and rests too much on the horizontal roof surface. Due to creep and capillary action of water remaining on the roof, there is an increased risk of water ingress and/or leakage. Repair is easily achieved by shortening the height of this lead. Alternatively, small defects/cracks may be present in the lead flashing. These cracks are often easily repaired, after which the lead can function as intended for several years.

• Lead can easily be cut and 'torn off' with a utility knife.
• Always place a piece of board under the lead to be cut, this prevents you from accidentally cutting the bitumen.
• Repair kits for repairing cracks in lead are available at every hardware store, as well as various types of tape and bitumen adhesive materials.
• If the lead flashing is defective, there is a risk of water ingress (and leakage). Ensure that any defects are repaired promptly.
• Want to eliminate any uncertainty or gain more clarity about the technical condition and state of your dormer? A building inspection will provide clarity and certainty.