How to Prevent Wind Damage to Your Roof
Gales are notorious for causing damage to property, and with Storm Ciaran bringing gusts of 86 miles per hour to the British Isles in 2023 and high wind incidents predicted to increase, it is time to make your roof as windproof as possible.
If you are wondering how to prevent wind damage to your roof and the rest of your property, we have some top tips on how to minimise potential damage.
Routine maintenance
It is always essential to keep your roof in good condition by regular inspections and maintenance. Caring for your roof will extend its life and make it ready for adverse conditions. Check regularly for loose or cracked tiles and flashing and mend them speedily. High winds can send loose tiles flying, damaging your roof but also causing injury or further property damage at ground level. You may find Improve a Roof’s inspection service helpful to assess your roof’s condition.
Control the environment around your roof
Overhanging tree branches are a risk in high winds. The wind may throw them against your roof or, indeed, break the branches off, sending them crashing into your tiles. Trimming branches back is always good practice anyway, as falling leaves can easily block the gutter.
Keep your chimney in good condition
Many UK houses retain chimney stacks and pots even though the chimney is no longer used. If you still have chimneys on your roof, it is essential that the brickwork and mortar are in good condition. Chimneys are extremely heavy structures, and if a high wind brings all or part of your chimney down, serious damage could be caused.
Pay attention to any weak points
Soffits, fascia, and eaves can be weak points on your roof. High winds can loosen or break them.
More dramatically, extremely high wind from the right direction could take advantage of weak connections and lift the roof from the supporting walls. Storm straps and hurricane straps can make a roof structure more secure.
Install a wind-resistant roof
If you are not in the market for a new roof, this may be a step too far, but it is worth knowing that metal roofs are considered the most wind-resistant. They also survive flying debris better than tiled roofs, although they may suffer a few dents.
Secure loose items
Your home and garden are probably full of everyday items that could cause damage or be broken if picked up by a speedy gust.
Patio furniture, garden tools and plant pots can all break windows and doors if they become airborne, so it’s best to put them away or secure them if there is a severe wind warning.
Make sure windows and doors are closed
A strong wind could wrench an open door or window off its hinges. Pay particular attention to large garage doors, which could cause considerable damage if blown off.
In hurricane conditions, open windows and doors allow high winds into properties at an incredible velocity which could quite literally raise your roof.
Contact Improve a Roof for help in making your roof windproof
Without the right equipment and experience, it can be dangerous for homeowners to get up on their roofs to check their condition. It is always best to leave hazardous jobs to the professionals.
We provide roof cleaning and inspection services in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Manchester, Merseyside, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire.
Call us NOW on 0800 046 9686 for a free, no-obligation quotation.
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