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We are being battered by gale force winds more often than we used to be
according to the Met Office. The latest report from the Hadley
Centre entitled 'Climate change - observations and predictions' summarises
the findings of their most recent research which shows that the average
number of severe storms affecting the UK during the winter period has
significantly increased over the last few years.
The problem will obviously be most severe in the most exposed parts of the
country but never the less it does highlight the importance of taking
preventative measures to safeguard buildings against wind damage.
This usually means the roof - checking to ensure that tiles, slates or
sheets are undamaged and firmly fixed and that wind cannot get underneath
through weaknesses at the eaves, ridges and verges.
Although some roofing materials are more resistant to wind damage than
others, Onduline roofing sheets for example have been tested at wind
speeds of up to 120 mph and have been known to stand up to the strongest
hurricanes, the possibility of storm damage can never be ruled out
entirely whatever the material is being used or however well it is fixed.
When damage does occur it can have very serious consequences for both the
structure and the contents of the building particularly as the wind is
usually accompanied by rain.
The first priority in this situation is to carry out an instant repair and
here Onduline roofing sheets really do come into their own. These
lightweight sheets are easy and safe to handle and fix and can be used to
cover a large area very quickly, an important factor during adverse
weather conditions. They will provide a secure, weatherproof roof
covering until such times as a permanent roof can be reinstated.
In those parts of the country traditionally prone to strong winds
contractors have been known to keep a small stock of Onduline sheets for
just such an emergency. This has proved a sensible precaution to
enable them to respond quickly to a customer's problem.
Onduline has BBA certification and carries a 15 year, insurance-backed
water-proofing guarantee.
End.
The Met Office's Hadley Centre for Climate Prediction and Research
publishes regular reports on climate change. Visit
www.metoffice.com.
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