How Does Weather Affect my Roof?

The UK is infamous for its adverse and erratic weather conditions. One moment there’s a blizzard and 5 seconds later a heatwave hits and everyone has their BBQ’s going! In turn, these dynamic weather conditions can cause issues with our travel arrangements, pre-set plans and even our property. This in-depth guide is a must-read for all homeowners!    

Warm Weather

UV Rays

The continuous exposure to heat and UV rays can contribute to drying out your roof resulting in shrinkages and weakening.

Warping 

A change in temperature like this can cause tiles and shingles to expand and contract in a short amount of time.

Organism Growth

High temperatures and an increased supply of water from rain can contribute to the growth of moss and mould.

UV Rays 

Unless covered by the shade, your roof is directly exposed to UV rays from the sun. This continuous exposure to heat and UV rays can contribute to drying out your roof over a long time. This could result in shrinkages and the weakening of the wooden roofing battens.     

Thermal Shock 

Thermal shock is when the temperature increases more than average during the day but has a sudden drop in the night. A change in temperature like this can cause the membranes to expand and contract in a short amount of time. It can eventually lead to weakened structural integrity which can then result in warping.   

Organism Growth 

When roofs are not maintained regularly, over time, moisture can become trapped within the structure. During the summer months, high temperatures and an increased supply of water from rain showers can contribute towards moss and mould growing at a much faster rate. You must regularly maintain your roof to reduce the chances of it causing larger structural damage.     

Cold Weather

Snow

Snow can become too heavy for an unmaintained roof.

Rain

It is important to ensure that rainwater drains off of your roof properly.

Lightning

If lightning hits one of your trees, branches can be severed and drop directly onto your roof, causing cracks or holes.

Rain  

In the UK, rain is the most common weather forecast, even more so during winter. Continuous drops of water hitting your roof can take a toll over time. Especially for flat roofs, it’s important to ensure that the water drains out properly. While fixing the roof, ensure that there are no water puddles on surfaces and that gutters are clear of leaves or debris. It is also equally important to make sure that the downpipes are directed towards the drains without any leaks or spills.    

Thunderstorms  

Thunderstorms can potentially loosen your roof tiles, or even blow them away completely! Although unlikely to hit your roof, if lightning hits one of your trees, branches can be severed and drop directly onto your roof, causing cracks or holes. To prevent this, try to keep large trees from extending over or toward your roof.    

Hail  

Hail is uncommon, but when it hits, it can cause serious trouble. Hail can crack traditional/ceramic roofing tiles, shatter stucco roofs, and even loosen or break wooden or asphalt shingles. Hail is much more likely to break your windows, but if it affects your roof, it is crucial to have trained, professional roofers, repair the damage as soon as possible to prevent structural decline.    

Snow  

Unlike rainwater, snow does drain down from your roof as easily and can be too heavy for an unmaintained roof. Most homeowners let it melt away, however, an alternative method to protect your roof would be to use a snow shovel and remove the build-up of snow. This can have more detrimental effects on your roofing tiles if not done carefully by knocking them loose or completely removing them.    

Wind  

Britain’s bitter winds can also harm your roofing tiles. High winds can loosen and move your tiles, sometimes even lifting them and causing a chain of damage across your rooftop. The advised method of protecting your roof against high wind damage is to regularly check your roof for loose or missing tiles and have these repaired or replaced immediately. 

• Sources: 
• https://spsroofingltd.co.uk/blog/how-different-weather-conditions-can-affect-your-roof/ 
• https://www.chrisballroofing.co.uk/how-does-weather-affect-my-roof/ 

Written by: Bridey Aris