Homeowners should make sure they take good care of their flat roofs over the summer months, instead of waiting till the autumn or winter to sort out any problems. 

The summer is the opportunity to make sure the structure is in good condition and get any flat roof repairs done. This will mean there is less chance of leaks or damage to the roof during the colder months, when heavy rain, storms, snow, ice and strong winds can have a big impact.

During the summer, make sure to check the roof frequently for punctures, particularly after summer rainstorms, which can often occur in the UK. 

Summer in Britain also has the potential to become very hot, which can cause damage to the roof due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. Therefore, it is sensible to apply a reflective coating, which reflects the sun’s rays and means the roof absorbs less heat. 

This helps to avoid blistering, which is when small cracks allow water to enter and then causes bubbles in the roof’s surface when it evaporates. Therefore, it is more common when the roof experiences high temperatures for a lengthy period of time.

Homeowners could also make sure there is good ventilation in the roof, as this will reduce the amount of heat that is trapped under the surface. Extreme heat in the roof can cause it to deteriorate at a faster rate, so ventilation will help slow down the ageing process. 

As heat causes materials to expand, this can result in the flat roof moving slightly when the temperature changes. This movement makes it easier for cracks to form, and subsequently, debris and water to get trapped inside.