Watering roof tiles could be a simple and effective way to keep homes cool during the current record-breaking heatwave, according to heating expert Adam Chapman, founder of Heat Geek. With temperatures reaching 36C in parts of the UK and 90 million people across Europe enduring extreme heat, many Brits are searching for practical ways to beat the heat.
Roof watering technique explained
In a 2024 YouTube video, Chapman demonstrated the technique as one of 17 tips for maintaining cooler homes. He explained: "I'm just watering our roof, which is actually tip number two - spray down your roof tiles. Roof tiles absorb heat then radiate it back down into the house. If you can cool off those tiles, you're also cooling down the house."
However, this approach may not suit everyone, particularly those unable to safely spray their roof or residents subject to hosepipe bans, such as in Kent. It remains an alternative for those seeking additional cooling methods.
UK heatwave records and warnings
Yesterday (Wednesday, June 24), the UK experienced its hottest June temperatures on record, with Hampshire reaching a sweltering 36.1C, forcing numerous schools to close. The Met Office predicted the mercury would rise to 36C in London today, with the red extreme heat warning extended to Friday. The warning covers all of London, much of the south east, and parts of the Midlands, West Country, and Wales.
A significant portion of Britain's infrastructure was not designed for such severe heat, prompting many residents to rely on fans, as most homes lack air conditioning.
Other cooling tips from experts
Home specialists at Country Living advise keeping blinds, curtains, and shutters shut throughout daytime hours, and opening windows once temperatures drop in the evening. They recommend: "Do this early on in the day, long before temperatures peak. You may also wish to consider using a reflective surface at windows, such as a reflective window film, external foil screens or budget-friendly tin foil, to bounce the heat away."
Regarding evening ventilation, they note: "While you seal everything shut during the day, these are the times to fling open the window (and doors when awake), especially those upstairs, to flush out the hot air and let in the cool air."
The Red Cross recommends focusing efforts on cooling a single room, stating: "Keep windows covered and shut and close doors to stop warm air entering." They advise avoiding rooms that are hard to keep cool, such as kitchens with heat-generating appliances or rooms with large windows where the sun shines.
Consumer watchdog Which? suggests not turning on a fan unless you are in the room, placing the fan by a window if it is cooler outside than inside, and placing a bowl or glass of ice under the fan for extra cooling.
