What’s the first thing most of us think about when summer rolls around? Getting in shape! Not only is swimsuit weather challenging us to drop a few pounds, but warmer temperatures and longer hours of daylight mean we have more time to pursue activities like running, hiking, biking, and walking for fun and fitness. With your mind on fitness, don’t forget about getting your roof in shape. This time of year is the perfect time for a professional roof inspection, especially if you didn’t do it in the spring. A certified professional knows what to look for to determine if your roof is summer worthy. Summer weather, including seasonal storms that come with high wind, rain, and hail can affect your roof and wreak havoc on roofs already in need of repair.
Summer heat, rain, and wind can do as much damage as extreme weather in the winter. It’s not uncommon for people to think that the drought we’re experiencing right now gives us a break from roof damage caused by precipitation. But direct sunlight, heat, high humidity, and thermal shock can damage roofing material, undermining the structural integrity of your home.
How Does Summer Weather Cause Roof Damage?
Sunlight (UV Rays)
It doesn’t take howling winds and torrential rain to damage a roof. Simple sunlight can also cause problems. In fact, if it’s 90° outside, the temperature on your roof can exceed 150° — keep in mind that if your roof is black, it will absorb more heat than light-colored materials. Because a roof takes the full impact of UV rays in the summer, shingles can dry out, crack and shrink, exposing the wood underneath to damage. You may not notice the effects until the first heavy rain of the season brings leaks.
Humidity
High humidity is as damaging as high temps. It can cause moisture to condense under the roofing material, causing water damage, leaks, and even mold (a health hazard).
Thermal Shock
Another precursor to roof problems in the summer months is thermal shock. This phenomenon occurs when high daytime temperatures suddenly drop at night. Over time, the thermal shock causes shingles to expand and contract, which can result in a warped or split roof.
Preparing Your Roof For Summer
While you can’t control environmental factors, you can take steps to protect your roof. Here are a few things you can do to get your roof in shape for summer.
Prepare and follow a maintenance plan
Prevention is the best antidote for damage. Clean debris off your roof, paying special attention to gutters and downspouts. Repair or replace damaged shingles and flashing. Even though taking a proactive approach may not be your favorite job, it will certainly extend the life of your roof.
Conduct an inspection
A licensed professional roofer can point out trouble spots and recommend solutions. Making an expert part of your plan will add years to your roof by helping you minimize summer roof damage. Plus, a complete roof inspection and corrective action will set you up for reducing seasonal damage later in the year.
Make sure your attic is sufficiently ventilated
A ventilation system in the attic exchanges hot air for cool air. Hot air escapes to the outside through intake vents, while cool air enters through exhaust vents. Lowering the temperature in the attic controls the development of moisture. Trapped moisture is destructive; it can damage wood framing, siding, shingles, and ceilings in the house. Plus, a well-ventilated attic is a sure way to keep energy costs down. When the attic is hot, the whole house suffers.
Heat vs. Roof
Some roofing materials are better at withstanding heat than others. Asphalt shingles are durable but vulnerable to heat and can crack and shrink. Clay and concrete shingles resist high temperatures, but summer conditions can cause them to fade and become brittle. Metal shingles are survivors when it comes to hot, dry weather. While they reflect UV rays, they are prone to warping due to heat.
Ease the Strain
Besides routine inspections and a proactive maintenance plan, you can reduce the potential for summer damage with any number of products. Here are a few that are designed to weather summer challenges as well as lower your utility bill:
Coatings and Reflective Granules
Applying a reflective coating or granules to your roof can help reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption, which can lower your energy bills and extend the life of your roof.
Color Choice
Choosing a lighter color for your roof can also help reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. Light-colored roofs can be up to 50 degrees cooler than dark-colored roofs in the summer.
Consider a Green Roof
A green roof is a layer of vegetation that is planted on top of a roof. This type of roof can help regulate the temperature of your building and reduce the heat absorbed by your roof. Green roofs can also help reduce stormwater runoff and improve air quality.
Get in Shape this Summer
Shaping up your roof may be as simple as removing debris and keeping gutters clean. Or it may involve investing in a better ventilation system for your attic. Whatever you do, taking care of your roof will prevent small problems from becoming big issues.
Don't wait until it's too late – contact us now to schedule a roof inspection and learn more about how summer weather can affect your roof, and what we can do to help you ease the strain.
Trust the experts at McKinnis
Start now to get your roof ready for the next storm. If you are in need of a roof inspection, roof replacement, or windows, siding, and gutter work, give us a call today at , visit our website at www.mckinnisinc.com, or fill out our contact form. Our Omaha roofing and exterior experts are highly trained and always ready to help!
