In a recent blog, we talked about how you may want to get your roof ready for winter and how snow and ice can damage your roof.
Extreme weather, as we’ve recently experienced here in Bath, can really put your roof under a lot of pressure. Storms in particular can damage your roof and leave you with issues such as leaks and broken tiles that can culminate into much bigger problems.
So what can you do to protect your roof from storm damage?
As an experienced roofing contractor, we know a few things about roofs, so we have put together some tips and guidance to help protect your roof. We specialise in roofing in Bath and the surrounding areas, and we understand that sometimes all your roof needs some reinforcement to help it cope with extreme weather.
How can storms damage your roof?
As you can imagine, the strong winds and heavy rainfall that come with storms can put a lot of pressure on your roof. Similar to the issues we discussed in our snow and ice blog, the biggest risks to your roof revolve around superficial damage and structural deterioration.
Storms are notorious for displacing tiles, which can then leave your roof vulnerable to rain or debris that get swept onto it. The sheer force of winds can deteriorate the materials on your roof and create rips and tears that affect the integrity of the roof. This type of damage can be difficult to spot, so you may require an inspection in order to identify punctures or weak spots that compromise your roof.
How can you prevent storm damage?
If you live in a particularly stormy region or are aware in advance that a storm is oncoming, there are a few actions you can take to prevent damage.
- Regular inspections
Identifying potential issues before they arise is your best chance of minimising risk. Damaged shingles are more susceptible to high winds, and you should watch out for dents and cracks in tiles as even these seemingly small defects can contribute to further issues. A regular inspection, either by yourself or a professional, can save you money in the long run.
- Roof sheets
If you’re lucky enough to have time before a storm hits, you can reduce the likelihood of damage by applying a roof sheet prior to bad weather.
The goal of this is to protect your existing roof with a layer of secured material that acts as a buffer between your roof and the weather. Think of it as a shield for your roof.
Checking weather channels such as the Met Office can give you a head start on the storm season.
- Remove any overhanging branches or trees
One thing to check before an oncoming bout of bad weather is the environment surrounding your home and the potential risks already present. Overhanging trees and branches in particular can break off in high winds and create further problems.
Pruning them back so they’re no longer encroaching on your building is the best preventative action you can take.
- Pick high wind-resistant materials
If you’re lucky enough to be picking materials for your roof and have the foresight to consider storm damage, checking whether your chosen materials can withstand bad weather is a great place to start.
There are specific roofing tiles and materials that are durable enough to resist high-winds. If you’re interested in this approach we recommend checking both the average wind speed of your geographic area as well as the peak wind speed.
Making the right material choice during your roof installation or replacement can save you money in the long-term.
How do you begin to repair your roof after a storm?
- Check your gutters
The first step is to check for obvious damage or changes. The gutters are a good place to start as debris can easily get lodged within them. Ensure your gutters aren’t clogged, overflowing or detached from the side of your roof.
- Remove debris
Debris won’t only collect in your gutters, it can form piles all across your roof. The bigger the pile, the more pressure that is being put on your roof.
Be very careful if you’re looking to do this yourself! We highly recommend getting professional help if you’re not already well-versed or confident in checking your roof.
- Check flashing
Flashing is the thin material often used to direct water away from certain areas of your roof such as the chimney or valleys. Usually metal, it’s vital to the integrity of your roof and protects you against the threat of leaks.
The flashing can rip or come away during a bad storm so checking that it is still in place and working as it should is essential.
- Check inside your home
The last check we recommend is actually within your home. Signs of leaks or mould can usually be attributed to a damaged roof or seal (such as a skylight). If the issue is extensive enough to be affecting your interior, it’s important to get it checked by a professional right away to prevent any further problems.
The most important part of any of these checks is to make sure you’re careful while carrying them out. Your own safety is important and a roof can be a very dangerous place, especially after bad weather. As roofing experts, we have the right training and equipment to work on roofs safely and efficiently.
Need help protecting or repairing your roof?
Bad weather is unpredictable but there are plenty of ways you can prepare your roof and not be caught off-guard.
Let us professionals ensure that your roof is well prepared, ensuring peace of mind. If you’d like to speak to us regarding your roof, please feel free to contact us!
We have been in the industry working as roofers in Bath since 1981, and we pride ourselves on being able to deliver the best results at amazing prices. Take a look at our portfolio, and get in touch today on 01225 951 223.