Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor in Ireland: What You Need to Know
When it comes to repairing or replacing your roof, choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A roof is one of the biggest investments in any property, and a poorly done job can lead to costly problems down the line. With so many roofing companies advertising their services, how can you ensure you're hiring a trusted professional?
In this guide, we’ll explain what to look for when choosing a roofing contractor in Ireland, questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
Why Your Choice of Roofer Matters.
A quality roofing contractor will not only complete the job correctly but also ensure it lasts. Good workmanship protects your home from the elements, saves you money in future repairs, and adds value to your property.
Key Qualities of a Reliable Roofing Contractor.
Look for these traits when researching local roofing contractors:
- Experience and reputation: A well-established business with years of experience and positive reviews is a strong sign of reliability.
- Insurance and certification: Your contractor should have public liability insurance and be fully compliant with health and safety standards.
- Written quotes and contracts: Everything should be documented clearly, including timelines, materials, and guarantees.
- Local references: Check online testimonials or ask for case studies from previous Irish clients.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring.
Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions:
- How long have you been in business?
- Can you provide proof of insurance?
- What type of roofing work do you specialise in?
- Do you offer guarantees on your work?
- What’s your lead time and how long will the job take?
Avoiding Common Pitfalls.
Be cautious of contractors who:
- Ask for large cash payments upfront
- Refuse to put anything in writing
- Can’t provide a business address or landline number
- Offer an unusually low quote—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
Trust Patrick Hannifin Roofing
We’ve built a strong reputation across Ireland for providing professional roofing and guttering services. We are fully insured, experienced, and committed to quality craftsmanship on every job—big or small.
How do I check if a roofer is insured?
Ask to see a copy of their public liability insurance. A reputable contractor will have no problem providing this.
What’s the risk of hiring an unlicensed roofer?
They may do substandard work and you’ll have no recourse if something goes wrong. You also risk voiding your home insurance.
Is it better to hire a local roofing contractor?
Yes. Local contractors are easier to reach, more familiar with regional building standards, and often more invested in maintaining their reputation.
Should I get multiple quotes?
Yes. Comparing at least 2–3 quotes gives you a better sense of pricing and professionalism.
When people think of roof care, they usually focus on repairs or replacements. But there’s another important service that can extend the life of your roof while also improving the look of your home—roof painting and protective coatings. Especially in Ireland, where roofs take a beating from rain, wind, and UV rays, roof coatings can make a real difference. Roof painting isn’t just about appearance. While a freshly painted roof does improve kerb appeal, the real value lies in the protection it provides. A high-quality roof coating can seal porous surfaces, reduce the growth of moss and algae, and provide a waterproof barrier that prevents water ingress. This is especially beneficial for older concrete tile roofs, which become more porous over time. As water is absorbed, it can lead to frost damage, cracking, and eventual leaks. A breathable coating helps shed rainwater and protects against freeze-thaw cycles. Reflective roof coatings also help reduce heat absorption. While this is more of a concern in warmer countries, in parts of Ireland where summer temperatures can still rise, it offers added energy efficiency—especially for converted attics or upper rooms. The process usually begins with a full roof clean to remove moss, algae, and dirt. This is followed by a thorough inspection to identify any tiles that need replacing or areas that require resealing. Once prepared, the coating is applied—either by brush, roller, or spray—depending on the material and layout of your roof. There are several types of protective coatings available, including acrylic-based, silicone, and polymer formulations. Some include anti-fungal properties to help prevent regrowth of moss and algae, while others focus on durability and waterproofing. At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we offer roof painting and coating services using premium-grade materials. Whether you want to refresh the appearance of your home, protect an ageing roof, or prevent future issues, we tailor the coating system to suit your roof type and condition. Roof painting is not a DIY job. The process requires safety precautions, access equipment, and technical knowledge to ensure proper adhesion and full coverage. With our expertise, you’ll get a long-lasting finish that enhances both performance and appearance.
Fascia and soffits aren’t just decorative trim along the roofline—they play an essential role in protecting your home from water damage, pests, and poor ventilation. Despite their importance, these elements are often neglected until obvious signs of damage appear. At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we regularly carry out fascia and soffit repairs across Ireland, and we’ve seen first-hand how crucial this part of the roofline is. Let’s start with the basics. The fascia is the long, straight board that runs along the edge of your roof. It supports the bottom row of tiles and holds the guttering in place. The soffit is the board underneath the fascia, running horizontally from the edge of the roof to the wall. Together, they form a protective barrier that keeps moisture out and allows air to circulate through the roof space. When fascia or soffits are damaged—whether by water, rot, age, or pests—it compromises the entire roofline system. If the fascia board weakens, your gutters can sag or detach, causing water to pour onto walls and foundations. If the soffits are cracked or poorly ventilated, air can’t circulate properly in the attic, which leads to dampness and mould. In Ireland’s damp climate, these problems are common. Wooden fascia boards are particularly vulnerable to rot if gutters overflow or water penetrates the joints. Modern uPVC alternatives are more durable, but they’re still susceptible to cracks or impact damage over time. Another issue we often see is pest intrusion. Birds, insects, and even rodents can find their way into attic spaces through broken soffits or poorly sealed gaps. Once inside, they can damage insulation, wiring, and wooden supports. The good news is that timely fascia and soffit repairs can prevent all of this. At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we offer full roofline inspections and repairs. Whether your boards need resealing, repainting, or complete replacement, we ensure your home remains protected and well-ventilated. If you've noticed peeling paint, damp around the roof edges, sagging gutters, or animals nesting in the eaves, it’s time to book an inspection. Small repairs now can save you major structural problems later.
It’s just a small leak—only a bit of water after a heavy rain. Maybe it’s not even dripping anymore. You tell yourself it can wait until next month. But in roofing, small leaks never stay small for long. One of the biggest mistakes Irish homeowners make is underestimating the seriousness of a minor roof leak. What seems like a harmless drip today can turn into significant structural damage tomorrow. Roof leaks often start out as slow, steady intrusions—barely noticeable at first. But water doesn’t just disappear. It seeps deeper into timber, insulation, and internal ceilings. Over time, the damage becomes more widespread and expensive to repair. When left untreated, water can rot wooden roof beams, encourage mould growth, and weaken the overall structure of your roof. You may even notice damage to internal walls, ceilings, or electrical wiring. Repairing those areas will cost far more than fixing the original leak. Many homeowners in Ireland put off leak repairs due to cost or convenience, especially during wet months. But ironically, the longer you delay, the more expensive the repair becomes. What might have been a simple job—like resealing flashing or replacing a tile—can quickly escalate into full roof replacements, timber treatment, or internal plasterwork. Aside from structural damage, there's also the impact on your health. Persistent dampness in your home increases the risk of mould, which can cause respiratory issues, especially in children or the elderly. The longer the water has to travel, the harder it becomes to find the source. By the time a leak shows up on your ceiling, it may have started on the other side of the roof. At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we often find customers surprised by how far water has travelled before becoming visible indoors. We recommend addressing leaks immediately—whether it’s a cracked tile, lifted flashing, or a minor hole in the roof membrane. Our team provides prompt, professional roof leak repairs throughout Ireland, ensuring your home stays dry, secure, and protected.
