Understanding Heat Stress – Protecting Your Property in a Warming UK Climate

Photo C/O Matt Dunham / AP (sourced from: https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2022/07/photos-uk-heatwave/670566/)

As our climate warms, regions across the UK and beyond are experiencing unprecedented levels of heat that affect not only our comfort but also the integrity of our properties. Heat stress is much more than just uncomfortably high temperatures—it can compromise building materials, drive up energy bills and even impact our health. At Martello, we pride ourselves on setting the trends rather than following them. We integrate cutting-edge satellite imagery and localised data from MapImpact into our reports well before regulatory bodies, such as the Law Society, finalise their prescriptive guidelines on climate change risks. In this post, we explore what heat stress is, why it matters, and how you can take proactive steps to protect your investment.

Heat stress refers to the strain that high temperatures and prolonged heat exposure place on the built environment. Key factors include:

• Thermal Expansion: Extreme heat causes building materials to expand and contract, which can lead to cracks and structural weaknesses.
• Increased Energy Demand: Elevated temperatures often result in a higher reliance on cooling systems, thereby increasing energy consumption and associated costs.
• Material Degradation: Over time, excessive heat can degrade insulation, roofing materials, and finishes, ultimately affecting both the appearance and functionality of your property.

• Property Value: Homes in high heat stress zones may suffer from reduced market appeal due to accelerated wear and increased maintenance challenges.
• Occupant Comfort and Health: Extreme heat can negatively impact indoor comfort and may pose health risks, especially for the elderly or vulnerable individuals.

Long-Term Costs: The cumulative effect of heat-induced damage can lead to costly repairs and higher insurance premiums over time.

Our heat stress assessment methodology (more details can be found in our Heat Stress Methodology) combines advanced satellite imagery with detailed environmental data to pinpoint areas most at risk.

This proactive stance is especially important as the upcoming regulatory framework from the Law Society will soon require comprehensive reporting on physical climate risks. At Martello, we are proud to be ahead of the curve, ensuring that conveyancers and home buyers have the necessary data well before it becomes a regulatory obligation.

In July 2022, London experienced one of its most severe heatwaves in recent memory, with temperatures exceeding 38°C in several inner-city areas. This record-breaking heat not only led to soaring energy bills and discomfort for residents but also highlighted issues with the ageing building stock. Numerous property owners reported cracking pavements, deterioration of exterior facades and increased wear on roofing materials. The urban heat island effect in the city further exacerbated these conditions, underscoring the need for timely retrofitting measures. As a result, local authorities and homeowners began exploring solutions such as reflective roofing, green roofs and improved insulation, all measures that align with our proactive recommendations. This real-world example reinforces the importance of Martello’s trend-setting approach in providing data-driven insights that empower property owners to act before regulatory changes force the issue.

To help mitigate the risks associated with heat stress, we recommend the following measures:

• Retrofit Options:
  Consider your retrofitting options as a key strategy to combat heat stress. For a personalised retrofit report, please visit Martello GreenVal.
• Insulation Survey:
  Conduct an insulation survey to determine areas where improved insulation can reduce heat energy flow, thereby enhancing energy efficiency.
• Strategic Planting:
  Strategically plant native trees and shrubs to create natural shade. Focus particularly on south-facing walls and areas receiving direct sunlight, but be mindful of the potential impact on ground stability.
• Green Roofs and Vertical Gardens:
  If you have a flat roof or suitable wall space, consider installing a green roof or vertical garden. These not only provide insulation but also reduce the overall heat absorption.
• Climbing Vines:
  Encourage climbing vines on walls to create shade and add greenery. Choose plants that are well-suited to your local climate and known to mitigate heat damage.
• Reflective Window Coverings:
  Implement reflective window coverings, such as blinds with a white backing, and opt for light-coloured paints and roofing materials to minimise heat absorption.
• Seal Air Leaks:
  Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances can also help reduce and monitor heat generation within your home.
• Replace Impermeable Paving:
  Consider replacing paved areas like driveways and patios with permeable materials, such as gravel or pavers with gaps, to allow rainwater infiltration and reduce heat build-up.

Heat stress is a growing challenge in our warming world, but with proactive planning and reliable data, homeowners can protect their investments effectively. Martello’s trend-setting approach, backed by MapImpact’s innovative insights, ensures that you are not merely reacting to changes, but anticipating them. By taking steps now and staying ahead of the upcoming regulatory expectations, you can secure a more resilient and future-proof property.

This blog post is designed to empower you with actionable advice and the latest data-driven insights, so you can make informed decisions in a rapidly changing environment. If you need further personalised advice on retrofitting or other heat stress mitigation strategies, please visit Martello GreenVal.