Environ Roofing b
Need a quote?

How Weather in London Impacts Your Roof Over Time

Living in London means dealing with a climate that’s as unpredictable as it is varied. From sudden downpours to prolonged damp spells, high winds, and occasional frost, the weather in the capital has a major impact on the condition of your roof. 

Over time, even small weather-related stresses can build up, leading to damage that requires professional roof repairs. Understanding how London’s climate affects your roof can help you stay prepared and prevent costly repairs down the line.

How Weather in London Impacts Your Roof Over Time

Reviews

Our Clients

We Care About Our Clients' Experiences

quote
Matilda Macdonald
They are an excellent roofing company that charges fair prices for the standard of work carried out. They also took time to explain to us exactly what needed to be done.
quote
Michael Pollard
Definitely one of the best contractors we've ever hired. Extremely easy to communicate with and an even better turnaround time from start to completion. I’d recommend them to anybody looking for quality roofing solutions.
quote
Ellis Lamb
Thanks to the Environ team! The entire process was smooth, and we appreciate the extra efforts they put in for us. I’m a very happy customer and I’ll gladly use them again if we need roofing in future.


Constant Rain and Damp

London is no stranger to rainfall, and while roofs are designed to shed water, constant exposure can still take a toll. Persistent damp can weaken roofing materials, especially older tiles or worn flat roofing membranes.

Moisture can seep into cracks or gaps in flashing, eventually causing leaks inside the property. Once water makes its way inside, it can damage insulation, ceilings, and internal walls, leading to expensive repairs.

Wind Stress and Uplift

Strong winds are common throughout the year. These winds don’t just blow debris onto your roof, they can actually lift and shift tiles, especially if they’re already loose or worn. Once a single tile moves, the surrounding ones become more vulnerable, increasing the risk of water ingress. Chimneys, gutters, and flashing are also prone to wind damage that can quickly lead to you calling an emergency roofing company.

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Although London doesn’t experience extreme winters, the freeze-thaw cycle can still cause significant wear.

When water gets into tiny cracks in roofing materials and freezes, it expands. This expansion forces the crack to widen, gradually weakening tiles and mortar. Even a few seasons of this process can create leaks or cause visible deterioration.

Pollution and Moss Growth

London’s urban environment contributes to faster wear on roofing materials. Pollution can break down surfaces over time, while the moisture-rich climate encourages moss and algae growth. Moss holds water against the roof, preventing it from drying properly and leading to decay and tile displacement.

How to Protect Your Roof from Weather Damage

Regular maintenance and inspections are key. Checking for loose tiles, clearing gutters, and addressing small repairs quickly can significantly extend your roof’s lifespan. Professional roofing assessments ensure potential problems are identified early and addressed before they become major issues.

London weather might be unavoidable, but roof damage doesn’t have to be. With proactive care and expert support, your roof can stay strong and resilient, no matter what the forecast brings.

 

 

Need More Info?

Talk To Our Expert Now
020 3971 1901

Request a Callback

Please fill out the form below and we will call you back!

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    How does a flat roof work?

    Despite the name, flat roofs aren’t entirely flat. They are set at an angle of between 1 and 10 degrees, with a slope of around 1/4 inch per foot as a minimum to allow water to run off, preventing damage. Flat roofing in London is favoured particularly for commercial and industrial properties as it is easy to inspect and maintain.

    How are flat roofs installed?

    Construction methods vary, but broadly, flat to low-pitched roofing in London rests on roofing joists laid across and fixed to the tops of the walls. A layer of decking covers the joists, and insulation is added. This is then waterproofed by applying another layer – often EPDM rubber. A sealant is used to ensure the building below is watertight.

    How often should flat roofs be replaced?

    High-quality, well maintained flat roofs can last for up to 30 years. The lifespan of any roof depends on the material it’s made from and the construction method used. Slate or contemporary EPDM rubber are longer-lasting options than felt or asphalt.

    How do I know if my flat roof needs replacing?

    You should replace a flat roof’s membrane if the top layer appears to be damaged or is starting to bubble or crack due to high temperatures. If the membrane only has small tears or punctures in a limited area - due to extreme weather conditions, say – you can usually get away with repair rather than replacement.

    How much weight can a flat roof hold?

    It depends on the construction, but the minimum weight a flat roof must be capable of bearing is 300lbs. This refers to a concentrated weight where a load is positioned on just one area of the roof. So, for example, a commercial flat roof can approximately support a 300lb HVAC unit in a 2.5×2.5ft single space.

    How do I pick a good roofer?

    Look for an established roofer with plenty of experience. Find a roofer registered under the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Competent Persons Scheme if the project is a large one and ask about their insurance coverage as well as what guarantee they offer on their work. Check independent reviews from past customers to determine the quality of their work.

    How do you tell if roofers are doing a good job?

    Make sure the roof looks even with no signs of sagging, damage or bubbling. Check a drip edge has been installed – this is a metallic sheet protecting the board beneath the roof’s edge from water ingress. Check a waterproof underlayment layer has been laid as a waterproof barrier. Check for water damage internally after heavy rainfall.

    Pest Infestations

    Over time, damaged or unmaintained roofs can become entry points for pests such as birds, squirrels, or insects. These intruders can cause further damage, contaminate insulation, and even create fire hazards by nesting near electrical components.

    When to Act

    If your roof is over 20 years old, shows visible signs of damage, or has caused recurring issues indoors, it’s time to consult a professional roofer. They can assess the roof’s condition, identify hidden dangers, and advise whether repairs or full replacement are necessary.

    Ignoring the risks of an ageing roof can lead to expensive repairs and even compromise your safety.

    Regular roof inspections, timely maintenance, and professional assessments ensure your home remains secure, energy-efficient, and free from the hidden hazards that old roofs often conceal.

    Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Your Commercial Property

    Ready to find out how we can help?

    Contact Environ Roofing Company London today for a quick response – we are happy to help with any enquiry.
    Environ Roofing Services
    Roof replacement, repair and maintenance for domestic and commercial properties.
    2022 © Copyrights Environ Roofing Company London. All Rights Reserved.
    ENVIRON PEST CONTROL
    hello world!