While we do enjoy a couple of weeks of sun in the summer, the UK is hardly renowned for its tropical climate. Instead, most Brits are used to drizzly days and unexpected downpours.
The result is some of the world’s muddiest festivals, a national love of board games, and an instinctive urge to take a coat everywhere, just in case. Let’s not forget the heightened risk of leaks at home if your property isn’t well maintained.
But just how much does it rain in the UK? And how can you avoid some of the problems that come with it?
Rain, rain, go away
When you’re continuously seeing sports events called off or getting caught in a shower without a coat, it’s easy to think it rains in the UK more often than not. In fact, you wouldn’t be too far from the truth.
According to 2019 statistics, the UK had approximately 164.6 rain days – defined as days in which at least 1mm of rain fell. To put that in context, that’s around 45% of the entire year. Needless to say, it varies each year, with the year 2000 seeing a whopping 178.6 rain days on average.
It also varies from place to place. With mountainous landscapes and a northernly location, Scotland is the wettest country in the UK, while England is actually drier than its neighbours. However, when it comes to urban locations, England has its fair share, with Leeds, Bradford and Preston all making the top 10 rainiest cities.
Protecting your home from leaks
Some people look forward to the summer all year. Others love the magic of frost and snow in winter. But hardly anyone sees rain as their idea of fun. The wet stuff is enough to put a dampener on holidays, cancel days out and soak through anyone who’s not prepared.
But on a more serious note, it can create issues for your property. Worries about the number of rainy days are amplified if you’re in an area that’s at risk of flooding. Alternatively, you might have a roof with recurring problems, that’s just one heavy spell of rain away from another leak.
In September 2020, the government extended its grant scheme, which allows property owners to apply for up to £5,000 for flood protection. Properties flooded in November 2019 now have until 31st December 2021 to apply, while the deadline has been extended to 1st July 2022 for those flooded in February 2020.
Thankfully, things are much simpler when it comes to your roof. No matter how heavy the rain, or how many days it rains for, a well installed roof will protect your home from the elements all year round.
Is your roof rain-ready?
If you’re concerned about the state of your roof, the best way to know for sure is with a professional inspection from a trusted roofing company. With over three decades of experience in Barnsley and the surrounding areas, DPR Roofing can provide complete peace of mind when it comes to your roof.
Our fully trained roofers will inspect every aspect of your roof and recommend the best course of action to keep your property protected from the rain. Contact us on 01226 670 008 or email [email protected] to get the ball rolling.