How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter (or Any Harsh Weather Conditions)
- evo-kent
- Oct 31
- 3 min read
How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter (or Any Harsh Weather Conditions)
The UK weather can be wildly unpredictable. One week it’s mild and grey, the next we’re hit with heavy rain, strong winds, or even snow. Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against the elements, so preparing it for winter—or any harsh conditions—is crucial to avoid costly damage and keep your property safe and dry.
Here’s a practical guide to getting your roof ready for whatever the British weather throws at it.
1. Check for Loose or Damaged Tiles
One of the most common problems during storms is slipped or cracked tiles. Strong winds or heavy rain can easily exploit weak spots.
🔍 What to look for:
- Missing, cracked or curling tiles
- Tiles that appear misaligned or out of place
- Debris from broken tiles in your gutters or around your property
🛠 What to do:
Hire a professional roofer to inspect and replace damaged tiles promptly. Even a small crack can lead to a leak over winter.
2. Clear Out Gutters and Downpipes
Clogged gutters are a recipe for disaster when it rains heavily. Water needs to drain away properly—otherwise it can back up, overflow, and damage your roofline, walls, and even your foundations.
🧹 How to prepare:
- Remove leaves, moss, and debris from gutters and downpipes.
- Make sure water is flowing freely and draining away from your home.
- Consider adding leaf guards to reduce future build-up.
3. Inspect Flashing and Roof Edges
Flashing is the thin metal or waterproof material that seals joints around chimneys, skylights, and dormers. It’s often a weak point for leaks, especially in wind-driven rain.
🛠 Check for:
- Loose or lifting flashing
- Rust or corrosion on metal parts
- Cracks in the mortar around chimney stacks
If you’re unsure, a roofing contractor can reseal or replace sections of flashing before water gets in.
4. Look Inside Your Loft
Don’t forget to check indoors! Head into the loft or attic with a torch to look for:
- Water stains or damp patches on the rafters or insulation
- Signs of daylight coming through the roof
- Musty smells or visible mould
Catching these issues early can save you from a much bigger repair job when the weather turns.
5. Trim Nearby Trees
Overhanging branches can rub against your roof during high winds, damaging tiles or clogging your gutters with debris.
✂️ Tip:
- Cut back branches at least 1–2 metres from your roofline.
- Keep an eye out for trees that look weak or diseased—they could fall during a storm.
6. Insulate & Ventilate Your Roof Space
Proper insulation keeps your home warmer and prevents snow from melting unevenly on your roof—reducing the risk of ice dams or leaks.
But insulation without ventilation can cause condensation and mould.
✅ Make sure your loft:
- Has good-quality insulation between the joists
- Allows airflow through soffits, vents, or ridge tiles to prevent moisture build-up
7. Book a Professional Roof Inspection
Even if everything *looks* fine, it's worth getting a professional eye on it before winter. A qualified roofer can spot minor issues before they turn into major ones.
📅 Ideal timing:
Late summer to early autumn, before the worst of the weather sets in.
Final Thoughts
The UK winter can be harsh, but with a bit of preparation, your roof will be ready to weather the storms. Think of it as a routine MOT for your home—a small investment now could save you thousands in emergency repairs later.
🛠 Need help preparing your roof for winter?
Evo Kent Roofing, based in Gravesend & Rochester, offer roof repairs, and ongoing maintenance services across Kent. Contact our friendly team today for a free quote and keep your home safe and dry all year round.
