The Ultimate Guide to Emergency Roof Repairs in Ireland

Roofing emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time. A sudden storm, falling tree branch, or years of unnoticed wear can result in immediate and serious damage to your roof. When water is pouring in or parts of the roof are missing, swift action is vital to prevent long-term structural issues, internal water damage, and costly repairs.


In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about emergency roof repairs in Ireland—from what qualifies as a roofing emergency, to how to respond, and how to choose a reliable roofing contractor when time is of the essence.


What Counts as a Roofing Emergency?


Not every roofing issue requires urgent attention, but some problems simply can’t wait. These situations demand emergency roofing services:


Major leaks or water ingress.


If water is pouring into your home during heavy rain or pooling in the attic, the damage will escalate quickly. Left untreated, it can soak insulation, short electrical wiring, and cause mould or structural decay.


Storm damage or high winds.


Ireland’s frequent storms can rip off tiles, dislodge flashing, or damage the entire roof surface. In some cases, falling debris like branches or even powerlines can puncture the roof.


Collapsed sections of roofing.


Partial collapse is rare but possible with age-weakened structures or after extensive water damage. This is a major emergency that requires immediate attention.


Chimney or flashing failure.


If flashing around your chimney or skylight has lifted, it can allow significant water ingress. In high winds, loose chimney bricks or cowls can even become hazardous.


Fire damage or structural compromise.


Roofs affected by fire may look stable but could be severely weakened underneath. Emergency repairs can help secure the area while permanent work is planned.


First Steps in a Roofing Emergency.


If you notice serious damage, stay calm and follow these initial steps:


  • Protect the interior: Use buckets, towels, or tarpaulin to limit interior water damage if safe to do so.
  • Do not climb onto the roof: It may be unstable and dangerous. Leave all inspections to the professionals.
  • Call a trusted emergency roofer: Choose a reputable local roofing contractor who offers rapid-response services.
  • Document the damage: Take photos for insurance purposes if safe. This can speed up the claims process.


Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor in an Emergency.


Time is crucial in an emergency, but don’t rush into hiring just anyone. A few key tips:


  • Look for established local roofers with emergency callout services.
  • Make sure they are fully insured and certified.
  • Check for online reviews or ask for references.
  • Avoid anyone demanding cash upfront or offering “cheap quick fixes”.


At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we provide fast, reliable emergency roof repairs across Ireland. Whether it’s storm damage, a sudden leak, or chimney failure, we act quickly to secure the site, minimise further damage, and carry out long-term repairs once the roof is stabilised.


What to Expect From an Emergency Roof Repair Visit.


When you call for emergency roofing services, our priority is to make your home safe and watertight. A typical visit involves:


  • A fast response time—usually same-day depending on location and weather.
  • A full assessment of the visible damage.
  • Temporary repairs if needed—such as tarping exposed areas or sealing leaks.
  • A follow-up plan for permanent repairs, which may be scheduled for better weather conditions or after structural inspection.


Preventing Future Roofing Emergencies.


While not all emergencies can be avoided, regular roof maintenance goes a long way. Many emergency roof repairs we attend could have been prevented with an annual inspection or timely minor repair.


Consider booking in a roof inspection service once or twice a year, especially after storms or before winter sets in. Addressing small issues early prevents larger, urgent ones later.


Insurance and Roofing Emergencies.



In many cases, home insurance policies will cover storm damage, fallen trees, and emergency roof repairs. However, policies often require that you act quickly to minimise the damage. Using a professional roofer with experience in providing insurance reports can make the process much smoother.


We’re happy to liaise directly with your insurance company to provide detailed quotes, damage assessments, and photo evidence where required.

  • What should I do while waiting for the emergency roofer to arrive?

    Place buckets under leaks, turn off electricity in affected areas, and avoid entering the attic if there’s visible damage. Do not climb on the roof yourself.

  • Is emergency roof repair covered by insurance in Ireland?

    Often yes, especially if caused by storms or external impact. Always check your policy and act fast to prevent further damage.

  • How quickly can a roofer get to me in an emergency?

    Patrick Hannifin Roofing offers same-day response where possible, especially for severe leaks or storm-related issues.

  • Will the emergency roofer fix everything in one visit?

    We always secure the roof and carry out temporary repairs first. Permanent repairs may be scheduled after a full assessment, depending on the severity and weather conditions.

Roof Painting and Protective Coatings: Boosting Lifespan and Curb Appeal

7 April 2025
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 Soffit Repairs: Why They Matter More Than You Think

7 April 2025
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.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay That Minor Roof Leak Repair

7 April 2025
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.
More posts