What Wakefield homeowners should know before the next heatwave hits.
Yorkshire might not be known for blazing sunshine, but Wakefield summers have been getting hotter lately. Between rising temperatures and the odd heatwave rolling in from the south, roofs across the district are quietly bearing the brunt. And while most of us remember to slap on sunscreen for a day out at Newmillerdam Country Park, we often forget our homes need protection too.
Your roof is your first line of defence against the elements, and prolonged exposure to UV rays, thermal expansion and high heat can take a real toll. Especially on older homes or those with flat roofs. Whether you’re in a stone-built terrace in Sandal, a 1960s semi in Outwood, or a sleek new-build in Wrenthorpe, here’s how to keep your roof in top condition when the temperature climbs.
1. Understand the impact of summer heat on roofing materials
While winter brings rain and snow to Wakefield, summer is when your roof silently suffers.
Heat and UV rays can:
- Dry out roofing felt and cause cracks
- Fade and weaken slate, clay and concrete tiles
- Cause wooden elements to warp or expand
- Lead to blistering on flat roofs, particularly those with felt or rubber membranes
In Wakefield, where many homes feature traditional slate tiles or felt for flat-roof extensions, this kind of seasonal stress can knock years off the lifespan of your roof.
2. Inspect for signs of wear after each heatwave
It doesn’t need to be 40°C for damage to occur. Prolonged 20–25°C spells can still be enough to cause deterioration. Yes, even after a rainy spring.
Wakefield homeowners should keep an eye out for:
- Curling or blistering tiles
- Discolouration or patchy surfaces
- Cracks in flashing or roof joints
- Sagging areas (especially problematic on older flat roofs)
Take a walk around the property after warm spells, from a safe distance, of course. If anything looks suspicious, it’s time to call in a professional roofing company.
3. Keep your loft well-ventilated
Hot air rises and your loft traps it. Without proper ventilation, summer heat can push attic temperatures above 40°C, baking the underside of your roof and putting strain on structural materials.
Why it matters:
- It accelerates wear and tear
- Promotes mould growth if there’s any moisture left from spring rains
- Makes your insulation less effective
Proper airflow is essential. Ventilation slats, soffit vents and extractor fans all help reduce attic temperatures and extend your roof’s life. This is especially important for properties in areas like Stanley or Agbrigg, where lofts are often used for storage or converted into bedrooms.
4. Tidy your trees
Got a few leafy giants around your home? Wakefield’s suburban greenery might be charming, but overhanging branches can be a hazard in summer.
In dry, hot weather:
- Leaves can pile up and trap heat or moisture on the roof surface
- Branches scrape roof tiles or clog gutters
- Wildlife (including those cheeky Wakefield squirrels) use them as highways onto your roof
A quick trim in late spring can help prevent unnecessary damage and keep gutters clearer during summer storms.
5. Look after your flat roof
Flat roofs are more common than you’d think in Wakefield. You’ll see them on dormers and garages as well as extensions built during the housing booms of the 80s and 90s. And they’re especially vulnerable in summer.
Why?
- They absorb more heat due to their angle
- Heat can cause felt or membranes to bubble, blister or split
- They often lack sufficient drainage, meaning summer storms can still cause pooling
A professional roofer can apply UV-protective coatings, install heat-reflective membranes to help reduce the impact of solar exposure or even resurface your roof with a high-performance material like Sealoflex. It’s a smart upgrade, especially for older properties in Lupset or Kettlethorpe.
6. Clean your gutters (again)
Yes, we mention this a lot because it matters. Summer rainstorms can be sudden and intense. If your gutters are still holding onto spring’s leaf mulch, you could be dealing with overflow right when you least expect it.
Blocked gutters combined with heavy rain on a hot roof spells serious trouble. Not only can it force water under your tiles, but it can also cause cracks in masonry and even affect your foundations. Basically, what happens on the roof doesn’t necessarily stay on the roof!
7. Consider heat-reflective upgrades
If your roof is due for a repair or replacement, consider upgrading to a more heat-efficient option. Modern materials are built to handle temperature extremes better.
Options include:
- Light-coloured tiles that reflect heat
- Metal roofing with reflective coatings
- Insulating membranes under tile or slate
- Cool roof systems designed to regulate temperature
This isn’t just good for your roof. It can also help reduce your indoor temperature, lower your reliance on fans or air-con and even cut your energy bills. If your Wakefield home has high ceilings or a south-facing aspect the savings can be huge.
8. Book a professional summer roof inspection
There’s only so much you can spot from the ground. A professional roofer will check:
- Tile integrity
- Flashing condition
- Signs of UV or thermal damage
- Drainage and ventilation systems
We’ve seen all kinds of summer roof woes at DPR Roofing, from cracked pointing on red-brick semis in Eastmoor and Heath to melted felt on converted outbuildings near Horbury. A quick check-up can help you plan ahead and avoid being caught off-guard in the middle of a summer heatwave, or in the seasons to follow.
Prevention beats panic
Summer roof care doesn’t have to be a massive job. A bit of maintenance here and there (and a professional eye once a year) can make a big difference to the longevity of your roof, the comfort of your home and yes, the balance of your bank account.
If you’re a landlord in Wakefield, roof maintenance is also part of your responsibility to tenants. Regular check-ups can help avoid costly emergency repairs and keep your property in good standing.
Need help with a summer-ready roof check?
DPR Roofing is here to assist with honest advice, tailored solutions and decades of experience with Yorkshire’s unpredictable climate. Get in touch today to book your inspection, before the sun has a chance to do its worst.