Roofing on the north Kent coast

Roofs near the sea lead a harder life. Salt in the wind chews at fixings, gulls work at loose felt, and the gales that funnel up the Swale find every weak lap and tired joint. This site is where I write down what I've learnt about keeping roofs and fascias sound along this stretch of coast.

Most of what follows is rooted in real places. Tankerton's seafront soffits and gutters behave differently from the sheltered terraces inland. Flat-roof garages at Birchington, parapet maintenance on Margate terraces, GRP work on Chestfield dormers — each has its own quirks, and I've tried to set them out plainly.

If you own a property around Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham or further along to Margate and Ramsgate, the idea is simple: help you understand what your roof needs, what's normal wear, and what's worth acting on before winter.