How does the weather affect my roof?

Over time, the weather can have a significant impact on your home’s roof. With sun, rain, wind and snow all affecting its performance, appearance and lifespan. If you’re wondering “How does the weather affect my roof?” and what you can do to mitigate potential damage, read on.

The impact of the weather on your home’s roof

The weather in the UK can experience different extremes throughout the year. While the UK generally has a temperate climate, it is well-known for its variability and occasional extreme weather events that range from storms and flooding to freezing temperatures that bring snow and ice. Keep reading to learn the answer to the question “How does the weather affect my roof?”.

Rain and moisture

The UK is often considered to be one of the rainiest countries in the world. With a relatively high average annual rainfall compared to many other countries. This makes rainwater a common cause of roof issues. When roofs are exposed to rain for a prolonged length of time, leaks and water damage can occur, along with the growth of moss or algae. To protect your roof, you should ensure that rainwater is being effectively directed away from your home. 

Sunlight and high temperatures 

Prolonged exposure to sunlight during the summer months can result in damage to roofing materials over the years. UV damage can cause cracking, blistering or fading that could shorten your roof’s lifespan. To help mitigate the effects of sunlight on your home’s roof, we recommend opting for UV-resistant materials, applying protective coatings, and ensuring the roof has adequate ventilation.

Wind  

Whilst roofs in the UK are designed to withstand strong wind, over time it can have a destructive impact on your roof. Wind can lift up shingles and tiles, loosen flashing and eventually cause serious structural damage. Regular roof inspections can help to identify any damage caused by strong winds and determine which repairs are needed.

Snow and ice 

Two of the biggest threats to your home’s roof are snow and ice. When snow collects on your roof, it can place a huge amount of weight and stress on the structure. Plus, when the snow melts and then re-freezes, ice dams can form, resulting in water backup and potential leaks which can cause serious water damage. Since snow and ice can have such a major impact on your home’s roof, it’s a good idea to have it inspected at the end of winter to check for damage.

Roof inspections after severe weather events 

If there have been severe weather conditions in your area such as heavy rain, strong winds or a snowstorm, it’s a good idea to schedule a roof inspection. Even though roof inspections are advisable annually, it’s particularly important to book one after a period of bad weather. Bad weather conditions can cause serious damage to your roof, potentially resulting in loose or missing shingles, leaks, and structural issues.

At Raven Roofing, we recommend scheduling a roof inspection at least once a year. These regular inspections help identify any potential problems early on and allow for timely maintenance or repairs. For older roofs or those in areas with harsh weather conditions, more frequent inspections, such as every six months, may be recommended.

Common roofing repairs after storms 

Storms can cause damage to roofs, with rain, hail and wind all having a significant effect. It’s important to assess and address any storm-related damage as quickly as possible. Some of the most common roofing repairs after storms include: 

• Replacing shingles. Strong winds can lead shingles to become loose or completely blow them off the roof. Replacing missing or damaged shingles is essential to prevent water leaks and maintain the roof’s structural integrity.
• Fixing leaks. Heavy rain and hail during a storm can cause roof leaks. We’ll identify the source of the leak and then seal or patch up the damaged areas to prevent water from finding its way into your property. 
• Repairing flashing. Storms can cause flashing, which is the material that seals the joints on the roof, to become damaged or dislodged. Damaged flashing can allow water to penetrate the roof, which means it needs repairing as soon as possible. 
• Gutter repairs. Storms can result in gutters and downspouts becoming clogged, which can affect water drainage. Debris needs to be cleared and any damaged sections repaired or replaced right away. 

Do you need a roof replacement in Louth?

In some cases, an inspection may determine that a roof needs to be replaced. Some of the most common signs that a roof has reached the end of its life include: 

• Leaks or water damage
• Curling, cracked or missing shingles
• Excessive loss of granules
• Sagging roof surface
• Mould or rot 
• Soaring energy bills indicating poor ventilation in the roof

Most roofs have a lifespan of between 20-25 years, depending on which materials are used. With this in mind, if your roof is around this age, there’s a good chance that it will need replacing soon. For a roof replacement in Louth, look no further than Raven Roofing and Repairs. 

We are one of the leading roofing companies in the area, serving hundreds of local home and business owners. We’re well-known for carrying out our roofing work to the highest standards and at a fair price, providing our customers with a real value-for-money service.

Contact us 

If you’re still wondering “How does the weather affect my roof?” or you’re dealing with roof damage due to severe weather, get in touch. Our roofing experts are on hand to answer all your questions and provide you with a competitive quote for any work you require. Call us on 01507 640 072 or send a message via our website to reach our team and discuss a roof replacement in Louth.