Round roofing are a roofing company that has traded in and around Kidderminster for over 50 years.

Why Local Weather Patterns Matter and How to Protect Your Home.

Kidderminster is known for its beautiful countryside, rich industrial history, and strong sense of community. But anyone who’s lived here for long knows the weather isn’t always so charming. From damp winters and sudden downpours to summer heatwaves and gusty winds, Kidderminster’s ever-changing climate can take a serious toll on your home,  especially your roof.

At Round Roofing, we specialise in roofing services tailored to the specific needs of Kidderminster homeowners. In this blog, we’ll explore how local weather conditions impact your roof, what to watch out for, and how to protect your home all year round.

Heavy Rainfall and Persistent Damp.

The West Midlands region, including Kidderminster, sees an average of over 110 rainy days per year. While the rain might seem like nothing more than a daily inconvenience, over time it can cause real damage to your roof.

How it affects your roof:

• Leaking Roofs: Small cracks or broken tiles allow water to seep into the roof structure.

• Underlay Deterioration: The constant exposure to moisture can break down the waterproof underlay beneath your tiles.

• Gutter Overflow: Heavy rain can block or overload gutters, leading to water pooling and seeping into brickwork or the roofline.

Tip: Regular gutter cleaning and annual roof inspections are essential to catch and fix small issues before they become costly leaks.

Strong Winds and Storm Damage.

Kidderminster may not see hurricanes, but strong gusts are not uncommon, especially during the autumn and winter months. High winds can:

• Lift or dislodge roof tiles

• Loosen flashing around chimneys and skylights

• Break branches that fall onto your roof

• Rip off fascia boards and soffits

Even one missing tile can expose your roof to water damage, so it’s vital to inspect your roof after storms or contact a local roofing expert for a quick check.

Cold Winters and Frost Damage.

While snowfall in Kidderminster, Stourbridge and Stourport is relatively moderate compared to the north of England, frost and ice are common during the winter.

What this means for your roof:

• Freeze-Thaw Effect: Water trapped in small cracks or gaps can freeze overnight, expand, and force tiles or mortar apart.

• Ice Dams: Blocked gutters and poor insulation can lead to ice dams, where melting snow refreezes at the edge of the roof and pushes water under your tiles.

• Brittle Materials: Constant freezing can cause older tiles and lead flashing to crack or become brittle.

Tip: Ensure your loft is properly insulated and ventilated to minimise the freeze-thaw cycle and reduce the risk of ice damage.

Warm Summers and UV Exposure.

While we may not see Mediterranean heat in Worcestershire, prolonged sunshine and summer heatwaves can still pose problems, particularly for older roofs or those with poor ventilation.

How heat can damage your roof:

• UV Degradation: Sunlight breaks down felt underlay, lead flashing, and rubber-based roofing materials over time.

• Tile Cracking: Sudden temperature changes — hot days and cool nights — can cause expansion and contraction in roof tiles.

• Condensation Issues: Poor roof ventilation during hot weather can trap moisture inside your loft, causing damp and mould.

Tip: A professional roofer can assess whether your roof has adequate ventilation and recommend improvements to extend its lifespan.

Moss, Algae, and Lichen Growth.

Kidderminster’s damp and shaded conditions, especially in areas surrounded by trees or north-facing roofs, make many homes prone to moss and algae growth.

Why this is a problem:

• Moss Holds Moisture: Moss retains water like a sponge, which can lead to tile degradation and increased weight load.

• Blocked Gutters and Downpipes: Moss and algae often fall into gutters, causing blockages and drainage issues.

• Dislodged Tiles: Moss can creep under tiles and lift them, breaking the waterproof seal and allowing rainwater to seep in.

Tip: We recommend periodic moss removal and gentle roof cleaning to prevent long-term damage.

How Weather Impacts Flat Roofs in Kidderminster.

Many local extensions, garages, and garden offices use flat roofing systems, usually felt, EPDM rubber, or fibreglass. These materials are particularly vulnerable to our mixed climate.

• Ponding Water: Heavy rain with slow drainage leads to standing water, which weakens felt or rubber over time.

• UV Degradation: Flat roofs often receive more direct sun exposure, accelerating the ageing of materials.

• Edge Peeling: Wind can lift the edges of membranes if not properly sealed, leading to leaks and underlay failure.

Tip: Flat roofs in the Kidderminster area should be inspected annually and recoated or replaced every 10–20 years, depending on the material.

Blocked and Overloaded Guttering Systems.

Our autumns in Kidderminster are beautiful, but they’re also messy. Fallen leaves and debris can quickly clog gutters, especially in homes near wooded areas or parks.

The result:

• Overflowing gutters

• Water running down walls and soaking into brickwork

• Increased risk of rising damp and wall staining

• Roofline damage to fascia and soffits

Tip: Schedule gutter cleaning every autumn and inspect brackets and joints to ensure everything is flowing freely.