When you think of seasonal roof damage, you’re more likely to think of the colder months. With more snow and rain, you’d think they do more damage to your roof. However, you should also keep an eye on your roof during the summer. There are several issues your roof could be experiencing over the colder months, so here are some common roof problems to look out for this summer.
1. Sun Damage
This is the number one cause of roof problems during the summer. The sun’s heat can cause all kinds of damage that you need to look for. For example, the heat can deteriorate if your roof deck is exposed to the sun. You’ll also see the glue holding the material in place will begin to melt at high temperatures, and your shingles will also be at risk.
They can start to buckle, curl and break if exposed to high enough temperatures. This can, of course, lead to all kinds of problems regarding your roof. If you’re not paying attention to sun damage, it can cause real issues over time and even lead to prematurely needing a new roof. The best way to stop this is to apply a coating to your roof.
This creates a barrier between the UV rays of the sun and the roof, much as sunscreen does. That way, you can slow down sun damage. Your roofer can recommend a suitable coating for your roof and apply it for you.
2. Water Damage
While you may not have rain and snow the same way you would in the winter, water can still take its toll in the summer. If you’re living in a climate that gets rainy in the summer, you will need to have your roof constructed to guard against this. If you ignore waterproofing your roof, you could find that water gets in under the shingles and allows it in.
That can weaken the roof deck as the wood rots or damage the timbers as the water gets in. Plus, you’re also in danger of mold developing in your home. To stop this, you’ll need to inspect your roof before the summer and look for any cracks in the armor that water can get in through. Any broken or missing shingles will need to be replaced.
The same goes for any flashing that has cracked or become worn over time. If you already see signs of water damage, such as water stains on the ceiling, you’ll need a roofing expert to come in immediately and help you.
3. Humidity Damage
During the summer, you’ll see humidity levels rise. Of course, it’s not pleasant for you, but it’s not great for your roof either. Condensation will happen when your roof is colder than the air around it. That extra moisture in your roof will cause more roof problems over time. That includes leaks and weakened roof structures.
There are a couple of ways that this can be avoided. Firstly, you’ll want to ensure that suitable waterproofing materials, such as a good underlayment, are used when your roof is first installed. That’s something that a good roofing company will do, so make sure you’re paying attention to this when looking for a roofing company.
Also, make sure that your roof is adequately insulated. The cold air your AC creates in the summer will escape through the roof. When you have the roof adequately insulated, you’ll see that not only are you keeping humidity from causing problems, you’ll be lowering your AC bills too.
4. Storm Damage
Summer is the time when storms roll around, and they can play havoc with your roof. High winds can pull shingles off your roof, and blown debris can end up on the roof and even damage it. You can minimize the damage when you know a storm is coming. Firstly, trim away any tree branches hanging too close to your roof.
That will stop leaves and branches on your roof and in the gutters. Take a look at your gutters, too, as they may have debris. Clear them out to ensure rainwater has a clear path to the ground. Once a storm has passed, check your roof to see if any damage has been caused. If there is damage, you’ll need to report this to your insurance company and ensure you call on a roofer immediately to help you.
5. Moss Damage
Finally, algae and moss may grow on your roof over the summer. It’s essential to address this, as moss will trap moisture underneath it as it grows. When that moisture is held against the roof, that will cause roof problems if it isn’t addressed. Luckily, it’s not too challenging to clean moss and algae off your roof and stop this from happening. As soon as you see moss, you’ll want to address it.
The longer it’s on your roof, the harder it will be to get off. Create a mixture of chlorine bleach and water, and spray it onto the roof using a garden hose. Let it sit for around 20 mins, and then wash it off. Over time the moss will loosen up, and you’ll be able to remove it using a leaf blower. The algae will come off with the next rain shower.
Conclusion
These are some things you need to look out for this summer on your roof. If you’re aware of the dangers, you can act against them now and lessen the problems you’ll face.
