Flat Roof Repair Costs

Compare Flat Roof Repair Prices Near You

Home > Roofing Projects > Flat roof repair

Flat roof repair

Flat roof repair

Flat roofs are becoming more popular in the UK for a number of reasons including better energy efficiency and cheaper installation costs.

Flat roofing is available for both domestic and commercial installations and they’re known as low pitched roofs. They’re often installed at a slight inclination to allow water to run off the top and into a guttering system.

Benefits of flat roof repairs

With the fantastic benefits flat roofs bring to properties, it’s extremely important to ensure they’re maintained to make the most from the advantages.

With a flat roof you’ll not only be saving space, but money and energy too with an efficient structure. They’re also resistant to UV rays and the UK’s constantly changing weather conditions.

With a flat roof on your property:

  • Reduce your energy bills because of improved efficiency

  • See cheaper installation and repair costs than higher pitched roofs

  • Benefit from a long lasting, UV resistant roof surface

  • Be able to combine the installation with any material

Flat roof repair quotes

With a number of benefits over the pitched roof, flat roofing has become a popular addition to the UK market.

If you’re interested in receiving up to four FREE quotes complete our quick form and hear from local, vetted and reputable companies.







Average Flat roof repair cost

The common cost of Flat roof repair is £2000. Costs can change based on the materials and the company selected. The upper price range can be as high as £2300. The material costs are usually around £500

Average price per Flat roof repair job in 2023

Avg. price low

Avg. price low
£309

Avg. price

Avg. price
£4,052

Avg. price high

Avg. price high
£9,510

£10100

£7575

£5050

£2525

£0

Prices based on actual Flat roof repair costs for your area, as reported by local Quotatis members.

Flat roof repair installation cost in your area 2023

Labour cost £1,400
Material cost £500
Waste removal £100
Time frame: 1-2 days

Advantages for Flat roof repair

  • Quicker than having a whole roof replaced
  • Less costly than replacing the whole roof
  • When done by a professional the repair can last a number of years

Disadvantages for Flat roof repair

  • Patches and repairs are not as durable as replacing the whole roof
  • Limited on what material can be used to repair

Flat roof repair Manufacturers

Flat roof repair FAQs

What is a Flat roof repair?

A leaky flat roof is one of those things every home and property owner would rather prefer to avoid. Not only can it be extremely frustrating to deal with, but it can also have a grave impact on the overall integrity and value of your property especially when things are not done properly. Generally, all leaky roofs pose serious problems, however, a leak in a flat roof is even a lot more complicated. Ranging from the quite simple repairs to the incredibly complex fixes, flat roof repair (also known as low slope roof repair) is be seriously problematic and at times, can call for a reconstruction which involves complicated roof insurance as well as an experienced professional support.

 

Flat roof repair consists of many different types. Cap sheet roofs possess layers of material glued together with hot asphalt, including a roll of mineral surface glue using asphalt to the top rather than gravel. The tar and gravel roofs also possess layers of material glued together with the help of hot asphalt, with the use of asphalt on top as well as gravel included in the asphalt. A modified bitumen roof possesses more strength when compared to a cap sheet roof or the conventional tar and gravel roof. This can be 2 or 3 plies, smooth or with a mineral surface, torched on, mopped on or self adhering. What’s more? A TPO roof is a single ply roof which is usually heat welded together. A PVC roof is also a single ply roof that’s heat welded together while an EPDM is a single ply roof that’s glued together. The foam roofs as well as various coatings are incorporated to reflect the sun’s UV rays and also to maintain and seal the roof.

How to repair a tar and gravel flat roof?

Tar and gravel flat roofs are popular because the gravel weighs down the surface of the roof so it doesn’t blow away and it also protects it from sun damage. The tar makes the roof watertight, so you won’t get any leaks. However, sometimes problems occur and you’ll get cracks and leaks. So how do you repair a tar and gravel flat roof?

If you notice leaking coming through your flat roof, try to find the source of the leak. Since water can travel easily, it might not be where you think it is. The first place to check is the flashing, then any parts of the roof with gravel missing. Once you’ve found the crack, sweep away any remaining gravel and clean the area.

Apply a primer to the area and allow it to dry. Then, apply a tar and gravel roof patch that you can get from most DIY shops. Patch 2-3 inches around the damaged area, creating layers, and ensuring that there aren’t any air bubbles or gaps. Then you should cover the entire patch with gravel.

Before you try to repair a tar and gravel flat roof yourself, consider how much of the roof needs repairing. Professionals often say that if cracks and faults make up 25% or more of the roof, then you should look to replace it. It might be tempting to try and replace your tar and gravel roof yourself, but it’s best left to the specialists. They will ensure that your new roof is watertight and strong enough to withstand sun damage and storms.

How to repair a flat roof?

How to repair a flat roof depends on the type of flat roof you have. We’ll talk about how to repair felt, asphalt, fibreglass and EDPM flat roofs yourself. But ultimately if you want the best finish, it’s best to ask a professional to repair your flat roof for you. Repairing a flat roof Whether you’ve got an old pour-and-roll type felt roof or a newer torch-on felt flat roof, you can get cracks, lifting around joints, leaks or dips. As a temporary measure, you can buy a special paint that you paint over cracks. For a more permanent repair, you can add a patch of torched-on felt or add a layer on top. Asphalt flat roof repair As your asphalt flat roof gets older, you may notice blisters, cracks or shrinkage and sagging around flashings. Again, you can use a paint on fix from a tin as a temporary repair, or add heat-applied flashing tape around flashing. For a more permanent fix you can use a liquid system, but many are only available to the trade market. You can also add a patch of torched-on roofing felt over a crack. How to repair a fibreglass (GRP) flat roof Fibreglass flat roofs are usually excellent, but problems can involve leaking flashing and cracks near upstands, trims or board joints. You can add acrylic sealant to cracks or holes for a good DIY repair, but a flashing problem is more difficult to fix. You’ll need to clean and sand the affected area of flashing, then laminate a 600g chopped strand mat into place, cure it and add a topcoat colour to match the roof. That sounds like a job better left to a specialist. EDPM rubber flat roof repair Rubber roofs often suffer from shrinkage when mechanical fixings haven’t been used near upstands, flashing leaks or holes or cuts. If you’ve got a small tear that you want to repair, you can add some lap sealant to the area – but use it sparingly. For a more permanent repair to flashing, buy some self-adhesive flashing that will mould into shape easily. Clean the area you want to repair, add EDPM primer, then stick the patch of flashing on from the centre outwards with a hard roller. You can add lap sealant around the edges if you want more protection from water.

How to repair a fibreglass flat roof?

Fibreglass, or GRP, flat roofs are very durable and should last you years, but over time they can become brittle and you might see some cracks or holes forming. Luckily, you can repair a fibreglass flat roof and it doesn’t have to be too difficult. Cracks in a fibreglass flat roof If you notice long cracks in your fibreglass roof, you can often use a fibreglass crack sealant. Simply clean the area, squeeze the sealant into the crack, then smooth it off. If you want it to look neater, you could coat the entire roof with a restorative coating which will make it look new again. Hole in a fibreglass roof If you notice a hole in your fibreglass flat roof, you’ll want to get this repaired as soon as possible to avoid any rainwater getting into your home. There are lots of fibreglass roof hole repair kits on the market, both online and in DIY stores, so you shouldn’t have trouble picking one up. They usually contain a mouldable UV cured patch that you can stick onto the hole. It will harden and become instantly weatherproof, so is the perfect emergency repair solution. Fixing pin holes in a fibreglass flat roof Unfortunately, if you find pin holes in a fibreglass flat roof it’s often because the installer didn’t use enough resin during the fibreglassing process. Luckily, if you can’t get back in touch with the installer or you only notice after a few years, you can fix this yourself. Sand down the roof back to the clear resin layer. Clean the entire roof with acetone and reapply some GRP roofing resin. Ensure that all the pinholes are filled – you might need two coats.

Can you repair a flat roof in the winter?

Yes – you can repair a flat roof in the winter. Contractors will still be able to help you repair leaks, and it’s a myth that they will charge more. Most won’t have any additional costs just for coming out in the winter.

You'll have to wait for any snow and ice to melt before you can repair your flat roof. Depending on what type of flat roof you have, some repairs might have to wait until temperatures reach a certain level above freezing – some coating products won’t adhere (stick) in low temperatures, but a roofing professional will be able to advise you on what is best to use in the winter. If you have an EDPM rubber roof, most of the adhesives won’t mix in cold weather, so you might have to wait until temperatures rise to get a proper repair to your flat roof.

The best way to avoid needing to repair your flat roof in the winter is to inspect it at regular intervals. During the summer, even in the UK’s mild weather, the sun’s UV rays can damage and weaken flat roof surfaces, potentially causing cracks and holes. As autumn approaches, take a look at your flat roof and see if you notice anything untoward. If you do, speak to a reputable roofer who can repair your flat roof for you before winter arrives.

How to repair a flat garage roof?

How to repair your flat garage roof will depend on what it’s made from. Lots of flat garage roofs are made from EDPM rubber, asphalt or felt. We’ll explain how to carry out repairs on your garage roof here. EDPM rubber flat roof repair EDPM rubber is an excellent choice for a flat garage roof and should need little maintenance. But if you do need to repair it, there are a few easy fixes. If it’s a small crack or tear, apply some lap sealant to the area, but don’t use too much. If you go for a more professional repair later, the sealant will need to be scraped off, so if there’s too much it might cost you more in labour. If you need to repair the flashing, buy some malleable flashing tape so you can form it into the right shape. Clean and dry the area that needs repairing, then apply an EDPM primer. When that’s touch dry, stick the patch of flashing tape down from the centre outwards with a roller. Repairing an asphalt flat garage roof Asphalt is also very hard-wearing, and when it does need fixing, the fixes often last a long time. So if you do get cracks or blisters, you can use a paint-on fix from a tin as a temporary repair. When it’s time for a more permanent fix, you can add a small patch of torched-on roofing felt or use a liquid system, but the high-quality ones are often only available to trade customers. How to repair a felt flat garage roof Felt can be repaired in a similar way to asphalt flat garage roofs. For small cracks or a temporary fix, try a paint-on treatment from a tin. But for something more permanent, use a patch of torched-on roofing felt or a liquid system. If these don’t stick, unfortunately it means it’s time for a new felt garage roof. If you do need a new flat garage roof, leave it to the professionals who will ensure that your new roof will last for years.

How much does a flat roof cost to repair?

How much a flat roof costs to repair depends on a few factors. Is your flat roof on a garage or an extension? What is the flat roof made from? It’s always best to get a few quotes to compare prices, but we’ll give you a rough idea here. If your flat roof was installed in the 1990s or earlier, it’s likely that you’ll see some leaks or damage soon. Felt flat roofs used to be installed completely flat, which meant that water couldn’t run off. That means that water pools and can create moss and damp. Sun exposure can also damage the felt, causing damage and eventually holes that lead to leaks. If you’re lucky enough to have got away with just needing a flat roof repair, this should set you back an average of £100 per square metre. If your roof is sagging due to the weight of it putting pressure on the timber frame, you might need additional joists – which could cost anywhere between £1,000 and £2,000, depending on how many you need. But if the problem is due to the internal part of the roof system becoming waterlogged, you could be looking at over £5,000. If your roof is severely leaking or the timber joists are rotting, it might be more cost effective to replace your flat roof. If you keep forking out for repairs, it will eventually be cheaper just to replace the whole thing, which could cost around £2,000.

How to repair flat roof blisters?

Blisters are most common on membrane roofing systems. Lots of contractors will tell you that if there are no signs of further damage, there might not be any need to repair flat roof blisters. They form when pockets of air or water get trapped between layers of the roof’s membrane or between the membrane and the frame. When the sun is out and it heats the pockets expand and stretch the membrane. If you do want to repair your flat roof blisters, there are a few ways to go about it.

If you have a membrane flat roof, cut away the membrane until you reach a place where the membrane is still stuck tightly to the roof. Reapply as many new membrane layers as you cut away over the blistered area. You might even need to do more. To make sure your patch remains watertight, you’ll need to leave at least 6 inches around the edges of the blister.

If you’ve got a felt roof, you can cut an X shape through the blister. Peel back the triangles that you’ve made and let the timber frame dry for a while (so don’t do this when rain is forecast!). Then, coat the area with lots of bitumen adhesive and leave it to dry until it feels tacky. Then press down the triangles of felt firmly into the adhesive.

After that, you’ll need to add more bitumen adhesive to the cuts you made. If you’ve got any spare roofing felt, cut a square that’s about 100mm bigger than the cuts then lay this over the adhesive. If you’ve not got any felt, it’s cheaper to use a self-adhesive flashing strip. Once you’ve laid the strip or patch over, seal the edges with more bitumen adhesive.

DIY: How to fix, repair, protect and seal a felt roof and flat roof using Everbuild Black Jack

BW ROOFING

Based: in Ashington, NE63

BW ROOFING is based in Ashington and have 2 positive reviews

Latest review

Peter P., NE61
17th November 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Morpeth

Price sightly higher so we decided on the lower quote

MRM roofing & property maintenance

Based: in Bedlington, NE22

Here at MRM roofing we pride ourselves on our reputation with years of experience in the trade we un...

Latest review

Peter P., NE61
17th November 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Morpeth

Both Companies came almost straightaway We decided to go with this company because of...

Hi Tec Roofing Solutions and Home Improvements

Based: in Blackpool, FY4

All Work 100% Guaranteed - Fully Insured - (No Job Too Small) - Call Us Today! We Beat Any Price. Al...

Latest review

Jillian B., LS11
17th November 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Leeds

Job completed in good time. All rubbish removed from my property. Courteous and consi...

PRO-FIT ROOFING

Based: in Birmingham, B3

About Pro-Fit Plastics Ltd

We are based in the Midlands and offer our services across the followi...

Latest review

Gary R., B33
3rd November 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Birmingham

Very nice man just quote to much

Phoenix Roofing

Based: in Bristol, BS8

Phoenix Roofing is based in Bristol and have 1 positive reviews

Latest review

Anthony M., BA1
6th October 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Bath

Was beaten on price, but really nice guy.

HomeProSolutions

Based: in York, YO61

Hello, Here At HomePro Solutions Limited we are a family run business with over 30yrs of knowledge a...

Latest review

Edith W., HG3
4th October 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Harrogate

Excellent job done, would certainly recommend this company.

Expert roofing and guttering

Based: in Thornton heath, CR7

Expert roofing and guttering proud to offer a whole host of professional roofing and building servic...

Latest review

Martin G., SM1
4th September 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Sutton

Very happy to service and work carried out would use again if needed

SSR Roofing

Based: in Warrington, WA4

Here at SSR Roofing we are a small local business thats been established for over 12years and have a...

Latest review

Kim G., SK17
26th August 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Buxton

Excellent service from SSR. Sean was brilliant and gave 2 quotes for using different ...

Rubbertech

Based: in Wrexham, LL11

I fit firestone epdm rubber membrane to flat roofs and most roofs can be done in one sheet of rubber...

Latest review

Alison B., WA4
17th July 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Warrington

Quick, efficient,helpful

DURABLE ROOFING AND BUILDING

Based: in Blakeney, GL5

Hi durable roofing and building limited is small company that makes a big difference

Latest review

George F., LE16
19th June 2023

Roofing | Flat | Repair in Market Harborough

The workmen did an excellent job had where very considerate, I can only say they knew...

Rated Local roofers

PRESTIGE MIDLANDS LTD

194 review(s)
Based: in Wolverhampton, WV1 1NA

Prestige Midlands Ltd, based in the heart of Wolverhampton; are suppliers and installers of Fascia, Soffit, Guttering (FSG) and also Flat Roofing products; EPDM rubber and felt. We offer our FSG products; including downpipes in a range of colours ...

Dartman Limited

89 review(s)
Based: in Mexborough, S64 8AP

We specialise in home maintenance, roofing and landscaping. (Driveways, Paths & Patios). We are a family run business and have been in the roofing and building industry for years, continuing with new generations upholding the original values of hig...

New Look Fascias

128 review(s)
Based: in Leeds, LS22 7TW

Welcome to new look fascias, your local roofing company for professional and reliable domestic roofing About new look fascias New look fascias are a well established, family run business roofing company that specialise in all aspects roofing wor...

B Wise

58 review(s)
Based: in Doncaster, DN8 4HT

We are a dedicated team of trained trades men who aim to beat any like for like quote and finish all our work to a very high standard For full customer satisfaction we are your guys

Primoplastics and Roofing

95 review(s)
Based: in Kent, PR8 7SP

Fully liability insurance provided we are a family run business that aim to please ,we have been roofing and fitting UPVC and guttering for well over twenty years all work is fully guaranteed and no payment or deposit is taken untill work is complet...

Elite Home Care

58 review(s)
Based: in Dartford, DA4 9BH

Elite Home Care are a professional affordable business taking pride in every aspect of their work, please feel free to contact us for your free no obligation quote.

NORTH EAST ROOFLINES

119 review(s)
Based: in Hartlepool, TS24 0PL

Hello my name is Andrew brougham , have been roofing approximately 20 years as can be shown in our expertise and workmanship . We have several vehicles on our firm to cover all aspects of our business , we also have 3 experienced tradesmen working fo...

FIRST CHOICE

59 review(s)
Based: in Cornwall, TR9 6LG

A business with customer satisfaction guaranteed, we aim to please with our workmanship, good reliable company.

UPGRADE HOME IMPROVEMENTS

60 review(s)
Based: in Sandbach, CW11 1HJ

Very professional very reliable very trustworthy and very helpful all our work comes with a guarantee on completion

B.UR. Roofer Limited

94 review(s)
Based: in Wolverhampton, WS11 0BD

Hi my name is billy I have been in the trade for 20 years we specialise in customer satisfaction We cover all aspects of roofing New roofs flat roofs upvc rubber Epdm Repointing 10 years guarantee

Similar Customer Enquiries for Flat roof repair

27 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Cleethorpes - DN35

Enquiry from: Margaret C

Start Date: Immediate

repair roof at back house are you the property owner: owner of the property location of roof: extension property age: 1970-2000 current roof material: other how much of the roof needs repairing would ...

Post a similar request >

27 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Banbury - OX16

Enquiry from: Charita F

Start Date: Immediate

Chimney The house has a single chimney stack which is located centrally along the roof and is associated with the flue located in the kitchen The chimney stack is relatively short and rises abov...

Post a similar request >

26 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Stanley - DH9

Enquiry from: Kath K

Start Date: Immediate

flat roof is leaking into bedroom at flashing point are you the property owner: owner of the property property type: terrace location of roof: extension property age: pre 1900 height of roof: 2nd floo...

Post a similar request >

25 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Leicester - LE4

Enquiry from: Gemma C

Start Date: Immediate

I’m getting rain water into my kitchen I do not know where is coming from roof or boiler.

Post a similar request >

25 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Birmingham - B44

Enquiry from: Mohammed H

Start Date: Immediate

leak in roof. causing damp to bedroom wall and water coming through walls and around window are you the property owner: owner of the property property type: semi detached how many bedrooms: 3-4 rooms ...

Post a similar request >

24 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Bingley - BD16

Enquiry from: Tracy B

Start Date: Immediate

Dormer flat room repaired or replaced

Post a similar request >

24 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Chester - CH3

Enquiry from: Kevin B

Start Date: Immediate

We had a fibreglass roof installed in February 2016 and since then have had a few issues which the original contractor has fixed. Unfortunately, that contractor has now gone bust and am I trying to ma...

Post a similar request >

24 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Driffield - YO25

Enquiry from: Susan G

Start Date: Immediate

fibre glass roof repair as having to take out gas boiler flue which is currently on flat roof which is covered in fibreglass which was done approx 10 years ago and replace with new flue are you the pr...

Post a similar request >

24 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Bexleyheath - DA7

Enquiry from: Alex L

Start Date: Immediate

New flat roof already has a coat of Flexipol but it hasn't fully sealed. 35 square metres garage roof on a slight incline.

Post a similar request >

23 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Barton-upon-Humber - DN18

Enquiry from: Steven H

Start Date: Immediate

repair to garage flat roof are you the property owner: owner of the property property type: detached location of roof: garage property age: 1970-2000 height of roof: 1st floor current roof material: ...

Post a similar request >

22 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Croydon - CR0

Enquiry from: Eric L

Start Date: Immediate

loft extension roof has a damage water protection and needs to be fixed or replaced. are you the property owner: owner of the property property type: semi detached location of roof: extension property...

Post a similar request >

21 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Brierley Hill - DY5

Enquiry from: Shah K

Start Date: Immediate

We have a flat in Brierly Hill & there are a couple of leakage in the living room & in the kitchen.So it's need repairing soon as possible

Post a similar request >

21 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Bingley - BD16

Enquiry from: Tracy B

Start Date: Immediate

Dormer flat room repaired or replaced

Post a similar request >

21 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Manchester - M4

Enquiry from: Aria F

Start Date: Immediate

There is a potential leak from a flat roof/balcony into an apartment, and we need the flags to be taken up to investigate, then quote for a repair

Post a similar request >

21 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Gateshead - NE8

Enquiry from: Sol S

Start Date: Immediate

felt roof requires attention

Post a similar request >

20 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Northampton - NN7

Enquiry from: Graham L

Start Date: Immediate

6m x 1.75m area of flat roof to be refelted. 1st floor dormer abutting a pitched roof along 1 edge. abuts shared chimney and neighbours flat roof along second edge. are you the property owner: owner o...

Post a similar request >

20 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Newcastle upon Tyne - NE5

Enquiry from: Sandra G

Start Date: Immediate

Flat roof in kitchen may need replaced,

Post a similar request >

20 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

London - E11

Enquiry from: Ola E

Start Date: Immediate

need a quote for a roof repair at flat 10 briar court, 281 forest road, london *** are you the property owner: owner of the property property type: other location of roof: other current roof material:...

Post a similar request >

20 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Liverpool - L9

Enquiry from: Walter B

Start Date: Immediate

quite a few leaks need to fixed quite quicly are you the property owner: tenant (with permission) property type: commercial location of roof: other property age: 1970-2000 height of roof: 1st floor c...

Post a similar request >

20 Nov

Roofing | Flat | Repair

Portsmouth - PO2

Enquiry from: Jennie P

Start Date: Immediate

drone to look at high tiled/pitched roof *** floor flat in ***. this is urgent for an insurance claim. preferably not vat registered are you the property owner: owner of the property property type: ot...

Post a similar request >

How it works

Tell us about your Flat roof repair project

Answer a few quick questions so we can match you with professionals who can help.

Find up to 4 Roofers in your area

Get free, no-obligation quotes from 4 verified Roofers working in your area.

Hire with confidence

Compare customer reviews, services and prices, and choose the right professional for you.

Latest Flat roof repair completed projects

  • Completed Flat roof repairproject picture by Primoplastics and Roofing
  • Completed Flat roof repairproject picture by Primoplastics and Roofing
  • Completed Flat roof repairproject picture by Prime home improvements Ltd
  • Need more help?

    How Much Does a Roof Repair Cost? Published: 01/08/2019 Need some roofing work done urgently? Or planning a future project? Finding out up-to-date re-roofing and roof repair costs will help you budget for the work ahead of time. It can be tempting to avoid roofing projects, but it’s essential not to. Your roof is a vital part of your property, keeping your home warm […] Read this article
    10 Ways to Make Sure you Hire a Good Roofer Published: 02/07/2019 Hiring a good roofer is a big part of your roofing project, and once you’ve got that out of the way the rest of the process should run smoothly. Consider your choice carefully and do some research on the contractor first to ensure you are happy with giving them the job. We’ve put together the […] Read this article
    4 Tips for Getting the Best Deal on a New Roof Published: 08/05/2019 Discover our top 4 Proven Strategies for Securing the Best Deal on Your New Roof. Got a leaking roof? Or is it old or looking tired? All of these things could indicate that you might need a new roof. The roof over our heads is a fundamental component of our homes, providing both protection and […] Read this article