Storm Damage to Roofs: What South East London Homeowners Should Check After High Winds

The problem is that relatively minor storm damage can create an opening for rainwater. A roof that appears largely intact from ground level may therefore develop a leak during the next period of heavy rainfall.

After particularly strong winds, homeowners should look for several common warning signs.

Missing roof tiles or slates are among the most obvious indications of storm damage. High winds can lift roofing materials, particularly where tiles or fixings were already deteriorating. You may notice a visible gap on the roof or find broken roofing material on the ground around the property. Slipped tiles are less obvious but can be equally important. A tile does not have to disappear completely to expose the roof beneath it. Even a relatively small movement can affect the overlap between tiles and increase the possibility of wind-driven rain entering the roof.

Ridge tiles should also be checked visually from a safe position. Because they occupy one of the most exposed parts of the roof, ridge tiles can be particularly vulnerable during severe weather. Damage to the mortar or fixing system should be professionally assessed.

Chimneys are another important area. Flashing around the base of a chimney forms a waterproof junction between the chimney and roof covering. Strong winds and general weathering can expose weaknesses in this area. Following a storm, damp around a chimney breast or moisture appearing in the loft may indicate that this junction requires attention.

Flat roofs can suffer storm damage too. Wind can affect roof coverings and edge details, while heavy rainfall may reveal previously unnoticed drainage problems. Water remaining on the surface for extended periods or new damp patches inside the building should be investigated.

Inside the property, the loft is often the best place to look for early evidence of a problem. Damp roof timbers, wet insulation, water staining or daylight visible through an unexpected opening can indicate roof damage. Inspections should only be carried out where the loft can be accessed safely.

It is important not to climb onto the roof yourself following a storm. Roofing surfaces can be slippery, and damaged materials may be unstable. Many problems can initially be identified from ground level or from inside the loft before a professional roofer carries out a closer inspection.

Storm damage does not always result in an immediate leak. Roofing felt and other components may temporarily prevent water reaching the interior even when tiles have been damaged. This can create a false impression that everything is fine.

Leaving the defect exposed to further rain and wind can eventually lead to water penetration and more extensive damage.

SE London Roofing provides roof inspections and repairs throughout South East London. If your property has been exposed to severe weather and you have noticed missing tiles, damaged roofing materials, damp or another change in the condition of your roof, arranging an inspection can help identify the problem before it develops further.

After a storm, a relatively small repair can sometimes be all that is required. Finding that damage early is the key.