Storm Damage Restoration

Storm Damage Restoration | Roofing | Lancing

When sudden coastal winds or driving rain tear through Lancing, HEP’s Roofing is ready — 24/7, 365. Our local, fully-insured crews arrive fast to secure your home, stop active leaks, and document every detail for your insurer. From missing tiles and punctured felt to structural rafter repairs, we blend rapid emergency response with the meticulous craftsmanship that has made us a trusted name across West Sussex for over two decades.

Once your roof is watertight, we handle the complete restoration: temporary coverings are replaced with premium, storm-rated materials; gutters and leadwork are rebuilt to current regulations; and every ridge line is re-pointed to withstand the next squall. With transparent quotes, clear communication, and a workmanship guarantee that rivals the best in the industry, HEP’s lets you focus on getting life back to normal while we bring your roof back to peak condition.

What our customers say

Our roof started leaking on a weekend from recent storms, so I sent a request online. They called first thing Monday morning to schedule an inspection. They were quite busy that day, and kept us updated as to the timing of their technician's arrival. When he arrived, Christian thoroughly inspected the roof, gave us his recommendation for a solution and tarped the roof as a temporary fix. Due to timing issues on our part and having to work with our insurance company, we couldn't schedule the repair right away. During this past weekend's storm, part of the tarp failed so I called and they immediately scheduled someone to come out and fix it. Jeremy arrived and had the problem taken care of quickly since more rain is expected before the work begins on Monday, and assured me that they will be there if I have any other issues in the meantime. I am very impressed by everyone I have dealt with at HEP; I am not sure I have ever received the level of communication as I have from them. They have answered every question, explained every detail and returned every phone call or text promptly and efficiently.

Shelly M.

Jacob Newman and Mark Mullin we're out today and finished off the repair job that needed done. This job had been a challenge for everyone that was sent out. They did a great job and it appears that all of the issues have been solved. Thanks a lot guys for the great service.

Merkaba T.

Christian was very proficient in detailing the scope of the work to be completed from our storm damage. He was very straightforward and courteous at the same time. He also answered the few questions that I had to give us a full understanding of what we expect to be done.

Chris L.

After a great inspection yesterday HEP got us on the books for the next day. They were in and out in 3 hours and were very very kind!

Russell M.

Christian Jordan did a great job checking on my roof

Chris B.

Christian Jordan and Michael Mott came out and looked great and took care of the wind damage to my vinyl siding

Kevin S.

Stephen took a good throughly look at my roof and brought to my attention some serious issues. He shows that he knows his stuff and he was very friendly and very nice to converse with. Good people all around

C P.

Jason arrived today on time, explained what he saw and what he did to repair the water penetration issue and even became friends with our dog. Good work. They were referred by a neighbor and I would definitely use them again.

Joe G.

Patrick and Jeremy have been really awesome in helping. They have tried every possible way to assist in helping me with my air-conditioning and roof repairs.

J S.

Christian Jordan and Jacob Edward's helped us so so so much and they came out literally so fast, within 15-20 minutes from our roof caving in. They were great and worked with us on everything.

Cierra B.

Roofing Storm Damage Restoration in Lancing: How HEP Protects Homes and Businesses

Harsh coastal winds sweeping in from the English Channel, sudden downpours that overstay their welcome, and the occasional hail-laden squall all contribute to an environment where roofs in Lancing face relentless punishment. HEP, a specialist in roofing storm damage restoration, provides property owners with the knowledge, craftsmanship, and comprehensive solutions necessary to keep rooftops performing at their best—even after the worst storms.

Below you will discover how HEP approaches every facet of storm damage restoration, from preliminary inspections to final finishes, ensuring that homes and commercial buildings in Lancing remain safe, efficient, and visually appealing.

The Distinct Challenges of Lancing’s Weather Patterns

Coastal Exposure and Salt-Loaded Air

Lancing’s location places it squarely in the path of sea-spray and windborne salt crystals. Over time, these invisible particles corrode metal flashings and fasteners and weaken certain roofing membranes. During a storm, the abrasive force of salt-laden rain accelerates surface wear.

Salt crystals penetrate microscopic fissures
Corrosive action undermines protective coatings
Vulnerable areas: gutters, lead flashings, galvanised nails

Variable Wind Speeds and Sudden Gusts

While the average wind speed along the West Sussex coastline may appear moderate, storms routinely introduce gusts exceeding 60 mph. These abrupt blasts can:

Dislodge ridge tiles and slates
Peel back shingle courses
Tear membrane underlays
Uplift entire roof edges if fixings are substandard

Heavy, Short-Duration Rainfall

Modern climate data for Lancing reveals an uptick in short bursts of intense rainfall. With volumes exceeding 30 mm per hour on occasion, overwhelmed gutters spill water under roof coverings, saturating timbers and insulation. HEP’s restoration plans are built around redirecting such torrents before structural elements suffer.

Hail Impact Risk

Although less frequent than in continental Europe, hailstorms do strike the south coast. Even pea-sized hailstones can:

Bruise bitumen shingles
Crack clay tiles
Dent metal roofing sheets
Chip surface granules, exposing lower layers to UV damage

Key Signs Your Roof Has Storm Damage

Visual Indicators Seen From Ground Level

Missing, broken, or misaligned tiles or slates
Sagging sections along ridge lines
Granules accumulating in downspout runoff
Flashing strips curled or protruding

Internal Warning Signals

Dark water stains on ceilings or loft timbers
Damp insulation emitting musty odours
Dripping sounds during rain events
Mould growth near chimney breasts

Structural Red Flags During Wind Events

Whistling noises indicative of loose fittings
Vibrations felt on upper-floor walls
Sudden daylight visible through roof boards

HEP’s licensed surveyors utilise both ground-based inspections and high-resolution drone imaging to capture every angle safely, even in hard-to-reach valleys or parapets.

HEP’s Systematic Restoration Process

1. Rapid Response and Temporary Safeguards

The first objective after any significant storm is to stabilise the property. HEP teams deploy emergency tarpaulins, board up punctured decking, and secure dangling tiles to stop further water ingress.

2. Comprehensive Roof Assessment

Detailed assessments cover:

Structural timber integrity
Underlayment condition
Flashing performance
Penetration points for vents and skylights
Drainage pathways and gutter capacity

Moisture meters measure hidden damp pockets, while infrared scanning reveals insulation saturation.

3. Insurance-Compliant Documentation

Accurate restoration relies on precise evidence. HEP compiles:

Timestamped photographs
Damage mapping sketches
Material specification sheets
Labor and material breakdowns aligned with insurer requirements

4. Material Selection and Sourcing

HEP’s supplier network ensures fast access to storm-rated components:

BS 5534-compliant mechanical fixings
High-grade breathable membranes
Class 4 impact-resistant shingles
Marine-grade stainless fasteners that withstand salt corrosion

5. Targeted Repairs or Full Replacement

HEP determines whether a sectional repair or complete re-roof delivers the best long-term performance. In either case, methods prioritise:

Ventilation upgrades for condensation control
Enhanced insulation to meet current building regs
Integration of solar PV flashings if panels are present
Consistent aesthetic finish to maintain kerb appeal

6. Post-Restoration Quality Assurance

Final inspections include:

Wind uplift resistance testing
Water tightness trials using controlled spray
Flashing adhesion verification
Debris removal and gutter flushing

Common Roofing Materials Restored by HEP in Lancing

Clay and Concrete Tiles

These traditional coverings suit the aesthetic of many Lancing neighbourhoods. Storms often cause ridge tile displacement or edge chipping.

Re-bedding ridges with polymer-modified mortar
Replacing fractured tiles with colour-matched stock
Installing dry-fix systems for added uplift resistance

Natural Slate

Favoured for its longevity and elegance, slate roofs can suffer cracked courses due to hail or wind-borne debris.

Sourcing reclaimed slates for seamless patching
Upgrading to stainless steel slate hooks
Realigning valleys with new lead soakers

Asphalt Shingles

Found on modern housing developments, shingles can lose surface granules under heavy rain and hail.

Applying UV-reflective shingle coatings
Reinforcing eave edges with starter strips
Switching to class 4 impact rated shingles for future storms

EPDM and TPO Membranes

Commercial and flat residential roofs in Lancing frequently employ synthetic membranes.

Heat-welding split seams
Installing tapered insulation schemes to enhance drainage
Overlaying with fleece-backed systems when full removal is impractical

Standing Seam Metal

A growing favourite for contemporary builds, metal roofs need specialised care after flying debris dents or pierces panels.

Panel straightening with metalwork tools
Spraying protective marine-grade coatings
Re-securing seams with concealed clips rated for coastal wind speeds

The Importance of Prompt Action After a Storm

Compounded Moisture Damage

Each day a compromised roof remains unrepaired, moisture continues infiltrating:

Timber rafters begin to warp
Insulation loses R-value once saturated
Electrical systems face corrosion risks

Insurance Claim Viability

Policies typically include clauses requiring policyholders to mitigate damage. Delays can jeopardise claim approval or reduce payout figures.

Energy Efficiency Decline

Even minor breaches disrupt ventilation flows, leading to hot-air pockets in summer and cold drafts in winter. HVAC systems cycle more frequently, raising utility costs.

HEP’s Preventative Strategies for Long-Term Roof Resilience

Annual Maintenance Programmes

HEP offers maintenance schedules tailored to Lancing’s coastal climate:

Clearing salt and moss build-up
Checking fixings after seasonal wind peaks
Re-sealing penetration flashings

Proactive Upgrades

Property owners often choose to incorporate enhanced features during restoration:

Impact-resistant ridge vents
Seam-free gutter liners reducing leak points
Fire-rated underlays for added safety

Storm Preparation Guidance

Before severe weather hits, HEP’s site audits advise on:

Trimming overhanging branches
Securing loose patio furniture
Inspecting satellite dishes and aerials for secure anchoring

Architectural Considerations Unique to Lancing Properties

Heritage Conservation Areas

Several streets in Lancing fall under conservation guidelines that mandate authentic materials and visible roofline consistency. HEP works with local planning authorities to ensure:

Like-for-like tile replacement
Mortar colour matching for ridge work
Hidden modern water barriers that preserve traditional appearance

Mixed-Use Buildings

Many seaside properties integrate ground-floor shops with residential flats above. Storm restoration must limit disruption to business activities:

Out-of-hours roof deck removal
Temporary scaffolding canopies shielding storefronts
Acoustic dampening to reduce hammer noise during trading hours

Dormer-Rich Rooflines

Lancing bungalows featuring rear loft conversions introduce multiple junctions—each a potential storm weakness.

Custom-cut lead aprons beneath dormer cheeks
Raised flashing upstands to divert wind-driven rain
Over-sized guttering handling increased roof catchment area

Environmental Responsibility in Storm Damage Restoration

Recycling Debris

During tear-offs, HEP sorts materials:

Clean clay tiles for reclamation yards
Metal flashings for smelting
Wood offcuts for biomass facilities

Reducing landfill waste contributes to both greener construction practices and lower disposal fees.

Sustainable Replacement Products

HEP prioritises eco-friendly options where feasible:

Slates sourced from quarries with responsible extraction certificates
Solar-reflective modified bitumen reducing urban heat islands
FSC-certified timber battens treated with low-VOC preservatives

Minimising Chemical Runoff

Storm-related roof work often involves sealants and adhesives. HEP selects:

Solvent-free polyurethane mastics
Water-based acrylic coatings
Products certified under ISO 14001 environmental management standards

Typical Timeline for Storm Damage Restoration Projects

Day 1–2: Emergency Tarping and Assessment

An immediate deployment team stabilises the property and starts photographing damage.

Day 3–5: Scope Finalisation and Material Ordering

Survey data is compiled into a restoration plan. Materials are ordered from confirmed in-stock suppliers.

Day 6–10: Structural Repairs and Dry-In

Rotten decking is replaced, underlayment installed, and the roof is made watertight.

Day 11–15: Finishing, Flashing, and Detailing

Covering materials are installed, flashings sealed, ridge systems fitted, and ventilation added.

Day 16: Post-Work Inspection and Site Clearance

Quality checks are conducted, debris cleared, and gutters flushed free of remnants.

Project duration can vary depending on roof size, weather interruptions, and conservation area permissions.

Critical Components HEP Inspects During Storm Restoration

Ridge and Hip Lines

Strong winds attack high-profile ridges first. HEP examines:

Mortar cracks and voids
Nail pull-throughs on ridge tiles
Ridge roll membrane integrity

Valleys

The convergence of two roof planes channels significant water volume. Restoration includes:

Debris clearance removing leaf accumulation
Replacement of worn lead or GRP valley liners
Installation of valley troughs with enhanced flow rates

Eaves and Soffits

Moisture can wick under eave edges. HEP assesses:

Fascia board decay
Ventilation strip blockages
Bird-stop mesh security

Flashings Around Penetrations

Chimneys, skylights, and vents require flawless flashing. Checks involve:

Lead step flashing height above finished roof surface
Sealant elasticity in low temperatures
Counterflashing overlap on bricks or siding

Gutter Systems

Even the most robust roof fails if water cannot exit efficiently:

Downpipe alignment and gradient
Joint seal integrity
Bracket spacing adherence to BS EN 612

Storm Damage and Insurance: Documenting with Precision

Photographic Evidence

High-resolution images capture:

Close-ups of fractured tiles
Wide shots showing storm path across roof fields
Moisture stains on attic sheathing

Written Condition Reports

HEP’s formatted documents outline:

Pre-storm condition benchmarks (when available)
Specific hurricane or wind event details
Material manufacturer and model numbers for replacement justification

Workmanship Warranties

Restoration proposals reference:

Minimum two-layer underlayment systems
Counter-battens for ventilation spaces
Compliance with BS 5534 load calculations

Materials Technology Advancements Enhancing Storm Resilience

Polymer-Modified Mortars

These allow flexible bonding of ridge and hip tiles, expanding and contracting without cracking during temperature swings.

Self-Healing Underlays

Microencapsulated agents release sealant when punctured, automatically closing nail holes left by flying debris.

Photovoltaic Roof Tiles

Integrated PV slates and shingles can replace damaged materials while also generating renewable energy, adding value post-restoration.

Smart Sensors

Moisture and wind sensors embedded under coverings relay data to homeowners, alerting them of early water ingress or abnormal uplift forces.

Best Practices for Property Owners Before the Next Storm Hits

Schedule roof inspections during dry months
Ensure gutters and downpipes remain clear of leaves and moss
Confirm attic ventilation meets modern airflow requirements
Remove or secure items in gardens that could become airborne
Photograph the roof in undamaged condition for insurance baseline

Why Expertise Matters in Coastal Roofing Restoration

Lancing’s combination of marine climate influences and traditional architecture demands more than generic repair work. Improper material choice or sub-standard installation can shorten a roof’s lifespan and jeopardise building integrity. HEP’s specialised knowledge covers:

Compatibility of fasteners with salt-heavy air
Load calculations accounting for wind uplift factors
Heritage compliance without sacrificing modern protection
Moisture migration pathways unique to pitched roofs in humid, breezy settings

The Long-Term Value of Professional Storm Damage Restoration

Property owners who invest in precise, compliant, and forward-thinking storm restoration benefit from:

Lower ongoing maintenance requirements
Improved building energy performance
Preserved or enhanced property market value
Reduced insurance premiums through certified upgrades

Key Roofing Terminology Referenced by HEP

Underlayment: A water-resistant barrier installed beneath the primary roof covering
Batten: A thin strip of timber to which tiles or slates are fixed
Soffit: The underside of an overhanging eave
Counterflashing: Secondary flashing covering the top edge of primary flashing
Fascia: Vertical finishing edge connected to the ends of rafters

Understanding Moisture Pathways in Storm-Damaged Roofs

Storm forces often create unconventional water entry routes:

Capillary Action

Tiny gaps between felt layers draw water upwards, saturating insulation unseen.

Wind-Driven Rain Penetration

Horizontal rain at high pressure breaches even small openings at ridges or valley edges.

Ice Damming (Rare but Possible)

Cold snaps after storms can freeze standing water at eaves, pushing meltwater under shingles.

HEP’s restoration strategy seals each of these pathways with breathable yet watertight solutions to maintain healthy attic environments.

Ventilation Upgrades During Restoration

Continuous Ridge Vents

Running the entire length of the ridge, these vents release warm moist air, reducing condensation.

Soffit Intake Vents

Balanced intake allows cool air to flow through roof cavities, supporting ridge exhaust efficiency.

Mechanical Attic Fans

In larger properties, solar-powered fans enhance air movement without increasing energy bills.

Proper ventilation extends the lifespan of both roofing materials and structural timbers while reducing mould growth risks.

Insulation Considerations

Storm restoration provides the perfect opportunity to upgrade loft insulation:

Mineral wool rolls for cost-effective thermal performance
Rigid PIR boards delivering high R-values in limited spaces
Blown cellulose for irregular cavity fills

Correct insulation prevents heat loss, lowers energy bills, and minimises ice dam potential in colder months.

Flashing Materials and Their Storm Performance

Lead: Exceptional lifespan but requires correct sizing and patination oil to resist coastal corrosion.
Aluminium: Lightweight with factory-applied coatings for salt resistance; needs precise folding.
EPDM Tape: Superior flexibility around complex penetrations such as solar mounts.

HEP selects flashing materials based on roof pitch, surrounding masonry, and the property’s proximity to salt spray zones.

Finishing Touches That Enhance Roof Durability

UV-stable ridge finishers protecting mortar from sun degradation
Anti-gull spikes deterring nuisance birds that dislodge tiles
Copper or zinc strips controlling moss and lichen growth

These small additions collectively extend the life of a restored roof, offering homeowners peace of mind against future storms.

Roof Drainage Enhancements

Oversized Gutters and Downpipes

Higher capacity systems mitigate overflow during heavy downpours common in Lancing’s storm events.

Gutter Guards

Mesh or brush inserts reduce leaf and debris accumulation, cutting maintenance needs.

Siphonic Roof Drainage (Flat Roofs)

Creates negative pressure drawing water rapidly through specialised outlets, ideal for large commercial properties subjected to torrential rains.

Structural Reinforcement Techniques

Sistering compromised rafters with treated timber
Installing hurricane straps anchoring trusses to wall plates
Adding purlins to redistribute load across spans

These measures directly combat wind uplift and driving rain forces, safeguarding the roof’s substructure.

Safety Protocols Followed by HEP Teams

Scaffold erection by CISRS-certified personnel
Harnesses and anchor points meeting EN 361 standards
Weather monitoring to avoid high-wind work conditions
On-site debris containment preventing hazards to pedestrians

Robust safety practices protect both technicians and occupants throughout the restoration project.

Future-Proofing Lancing Roofs Against Climate Change

Climate models predict more frequent intense rainfall and stronger wind events for the south-east coast. HEP’s forward-looking restoration solutions integrate: