Oh, you thought last year was hot? It’s July, and summer certainly isn’t disappointing. While the kids are out in the pool or on the couch with the a/c on high, every homeowner out there has the same itch on the back of their neck wondering about the summer heat and how it affects their roof.
Being a homeowner isn’t easy, specifically when it comes to maintaining the integrity of your roof.
Although each season has its flaws, summer can leave you on edge. Those harsh sun rays and unbelievably random hail and rain storms can do a number on your roof if you aren’t on top of its maintenance.
Stop scratching your neck. Here are those five common issues to look out for.
1. Heat Damage to Your Roof
Summer seems to be getting hotter and hotter. While we soak in its warmth after craving it during winter months, too much heat can cause damage to your roof.
As you learned in science class, when objects get hot, their particles expand. This applies to the materials that make up your roof. Depending on the materials and their lifespan, excessive heat can cause them to crack as they cycle through the hot and cool temperatures throughout the day and night.
And we know that cracks lead to leaks and diminished lifespan. Not a good look for your roof.
2. UV Radiation
Although we love the sun and the heat that comes with it, its rays should come with a caution sign. UV rays have an energetic and penetrating nature. It has the ability to break down chemical bonds, dry out materials, and alter shapes by warping, cracking, or expanding—as we mentioned above.
With consistent exposure to UV rays, your roofing materials begin to degrade, causing them to become brittle and lose their protective granules. In return, you receive a weakened roof—no one wants a weakened roof.
3. Humidity and Moisture
It’s important to have an equal balance between dryness and moisture during summer time. Too dry and it gets a little hard to sleep at night. Too moist—yeah, we said it.. MOIST— you risk organisms growing in places they don’t belong.
High humidity can encourage the growth of mold, algae, and mildew on your roof. These organisms all affect the roof in different manners, such as:
● Material degradation
● Moisture retention
● Increased weight
● Corrosion
● Damage to your roof’s physical appearance
4. Hail Damage
Hail storms are common during the summer months. What we hope aren’t so common are the damages left on your roof. Depending on how large the hailstones are and how strong the wind is blowing, dents or pockmarks are common damages to expect. It’ll compromise the aesthetic appeal, but even more so, make the roof prone to leaks.
5. Improper Roof Ventilation
Lastly, ventilation plays a vital part in its longevity and electric bill. As summer gets hotter, you want to avoid hot air getting trapped in your attic. If trapped, your home begins to feel hotter, and your shingles begin to cook from the inside out. So while the outer portion may look okay, don’t forget to pay close attention to its condition on the inside.
Still scratching your neck about your roof?
Summer in Michigan tests the resilience of your roof—and your patience. But learning these common issues and taking proactive steps to address them puts you one step ahead into extending your roof’s lifespan.
Since you now know what to look out for, do you know what to do about it? Give us a call, and we’ll tell you.
Roof Repair and Maintenance for your Metro area Home
If you want to get the most out of your roof, Level Up Improvement in Dearborn can help. We are committed to making sure homeowners feel confident in their homes so that they are living comfortably, efficiently and feel good about taking care of it. Our roofing services include inspections so that we can help you make the right decision that’s best for your home as well as your wallet.
Whether you need a simple roof repair, routine roof maintenance, a replacement or a new roof installation, our team of roofers is ready to get it done right! Don’t let a big-ticket item such as a new roof keep you from improving your home. Our Metro Detroit roofing and siding services are second to none and our Certainteed Select Certified status allows us to offer you the best warranties in the roofing business. Contact us today!