What to Do Before a Storm Hits the UK – A Homeowner's Guide

What to Do Before a Storm Hits the UK – A Homeowner's Guide

When a storm is due to hit the UK, preparation is key to protecting your property from the potentially devastating effects of strong winds, heavy rain, and even flooding. As experts in the roofing industry, particularly in the North East of England, Northern Heritage Roofing understands the importance of storm preparation and the role a strong, well-maintained roof plays in keeping your home or business safe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through steps to take in preparation for an impending storm, with specific advice for domestic, commercial, and heritage properties.

The Importance of Storm Preparation

Before we dive into specific steps, let's start with some important statistics. According to recent studies, the UK sees an average of 14 storms a year, with wind speeds reaching up to 100mph during the most severe events. During these storms, roofing systems are under immense pressure, with wind and rain combining to create the perfect conditions for damage. In fact, after a major storm, insurance claims for roof damage can increase by up to 30%, particularly in areas like Tyne & Wear, Northumberland, and Durham.

Being proactive in storm preparation can reduce the risk of significant damage, saving you both time and money. Now, let’s look at the essential steps to take across different property types.

1. Domestic Properties: Protecting Your Home

For homeowners, the roof is one of the most critical areas to inspect and secure before a storm. Domestic properties in areas like Newcastle, Sunderland, and Darlington, are particularly vulnerable to the challenges posed by harsh weather conditions.

Step 1: Book a Free Roof Inspection
A comprehensive roof inspection from a local roofing professional is one of the best ways to ensure your home is storm-ready. At Northern Heritage Roofing, we offer free roof inspections, where our experts will assess the condition of your roof, checking for any weak spots or defects that could become problematic during high winds.

Step 2: Visually Inspect Your Roof Space
Look in your attic or loft space for signs of water ingress, such as damp patches, mould, or drips. Early detection of leaks or compromised roofing materials can help prevent major damage when a storm hits.

Step 3: Check for External Roof Defects
Walk around the exterior of your property to look for obvious issues with your roof. Missing or damaged tiles, broken guttering, or loose flashing can all be potential entry points for water, which can cause flooding and structural damage. These issues should be addressed immediately by a roofing professional.

Step 4: Secure Loose Outdoor Items
Before a storm arrives, secure or bring inside any loose outdoor furniture, tools, or equipment. High winds can turn these items into projectiles that could damage your roof or windows.

Success Story: A Newcastle Homeowner's Preparation
One of our recent clients in Newcastle booked a pre-storm roof inspection with us. We identified a small but growing gap in their roof flashing, which could have allowed water to enter during heavy rainfall. They took action and had it repaired, and when the storm came, their home remained dry and secure.

2. Commercial Properties: Protecting Your Business

Storm damage can be particularly devastating for commercial properties, as the financial cost and potential disruption to operations can be significant. In places like Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, and Stockton, businesses should take the following steps to protect their roofs and premises:

Step 1: Schedule a Full Roof Inspection and Maintenance Check
Just as with domestic properties, commercial properties should schedule a roof inspection. For businesses in the North East, it’s essential to work with an experienced roofer who understands the specific demands of commercial roofing systems.

Step 2: Check Flat Roof Drainage Systems
Flat roofs, common in commercial buildings, are particularly vulnerable to water pooling and drainage issues. Make sure the roof drainage system is clear of debris and in good working order to prevent water buildup during heavy rainfall.

Step 3: Reinforce Commercial Roof Membranes
Many commercial roofs use materials like EPDM or PVC membranes. Ensure these membranes are in good condition, with no signs of damage or wear that could allow water to penetrate during storms.

Step 4: Employee Safety
Ensure that any employees or tenants are aware of the safety measures in place in the event of a storm. Ensure that all outdoor signage is secured and that any loose items are brought indoors or properly anchored.

Success Story: A Business in Hartlepool
We worked with a commercial client in Hartlepool who took the time to address minor leaks in their roof before a major storm hit. This proactive approach saved them from experiencing water damage that could have disrupted their business operations. They also invested in reinforcing their flat roof membrane, which held up strong during the storm.

3. Heritage Properties: Special Care for Historic Buildings

Heritage properties, such as old churches, historic homes, and listed buildings in cities like Durham, York, and Alnwick, require special attention before a storm. These buildings often have traditional roofing systems that may not be as resilient to modern storm conditions.

Step 1: Consult a Specialist in Heritage Roofing
If you own a heritage property, it’s essential to consult with a roofing professional who specialises in historic roofs. At Northern Heritage Roofing, we have the expertise and experience needed to work with traditional roofing materials like slate, lead, and clay tiles.

Step 2: Reinforce Traditional Roofing Materials
Heritage roofs may be more susceptible to storm damage due to age or weathering. It’s crucial to check the condition of the materials and reinforce any areas that may be weak or deteriorating.

Step 3: Protect Decorative Features
Many heritage properties feature ornate roof details, such as finials or ridge tiles. These decorative elements can be particularly vulnerable to high winds, so ensure they are secured and, if necessary, temporarily reinforced during storm season.

Step 4: Keep the Roof Ventilation System in Check
Proper roof ventilation is essential for maintaining the integrity of your heritage property. Blockages or issues with ventilation can lead to increased moisture buildup, potentially causing long-term damage to your roof.

Success Story: A Listed Building in Durham
One of our clients, a listed building in Durham, had previously experienced water ingress during a storm. However, by taking proactive steps, such as reinforcing their lead flashing and securing decorative ridge tiles, they avoided significant damage during subsequent storms.

Conclusion: Why Preparation Pays Off

Preparing for a storm might seem like a daunting task, but taking simple steps to ensure your roof is in good condition can make all the difference. Whether you’re a homeowner in Newcastle, a business owner in Sunderland, or the custodian of a historic property in Durham, the advice outlined above can help mitigate the risk of storm damage.

At Northern Heritage Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand the benefits of storm preparation. Our clients who take the time to inspect and maintain their roofs ahead of a storm rarely experience significant damage. In contrast, those who neglect their roofs often face costly repairs, insurance claims, and prolonged disruption.

Remember, your roof is the first line of defense against the elements. With the right preparation, you can rest easy knowing you’ve done everything possible to protect your property.

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