Many people appreciate the arrival of summer with its sunshine and warm temperatures. But the high amounts of heat and other weather hazards could pose a risk to your home, especially the roof.
The roof shields your home from the brunt of summer’s heat, but what kind of damage does this create over time? Read on to learn about three of the structural dangers that can occur to your roof during the hot summer months.
How Does Heat Impact My Roofing?
Thermal Shock Weakens Roofing Materials
Temperatures can shift quickly in the summer, from hot weather at the peak of the day to cooler temperatures after the sun sets. This quick change, known as thermal shock, can impact the materials in your roof. Shingles and metal and wooden frameworks can expand in the heat and contract as they cool.
This process could weaken the structure over your roof in multiple ways. Metal can warp and lead the outer shingles of the roof to shift positioning, leaving gaps and other damages that will need repairs. Your home may no longer be properly insulated in this case.
This may lead to higher energy bills. You should also stay aware of the heat rising in the interior of your home. Keep an eye on your roof, and if you see any signs of damage, call a contractor.
Sunlight Dries Roof Shingles
Heat, as well as the UV rays from intense sunshine, can lead to the shingles of a roof drying out. Even when the weather seems cloudy, UV rays can still affect your home. This type of damage to the materials of the roof may cause shingles to shrink or curl. They may be at risk of coming loose and exposing part of your roof.
Shingles may also crack or suffer some other damage. Your contractor might be able to repair some of this damage, but more extensive cases will need replacement instead.
The risk of this damage is more likely to occur on low-slope roofs which have more surface area exposed to direct sunlight. This type of roof can help regulate the temperature inside your home, but in turn, the UV rays can have a greater impact and level of harm to your roof.
Exposed Roof Heightens Risk of Moisture Damage
Structural damage to your roof can expose the interior of your home. Not only does this create ventilation concerns and detract from the aesthetic of the house, but it could also put the building at risk of moisture exposure.
If condensation, precipitation, or humid air infiltrates your home through the roof, you can experience major property damage. Moisture can lead to mold, rot, and other severe issues that could require extensive repairs. Summer often brings humidity in Maryland, so prior awareness of this potential concern can help you protect your home.
If you notice water stains or leaks, call your contractor as soon as possible. Prompt evaluation and repair to your roof can lower the amount of damage to your home.