The roof bears the brunt of any weather conditions we get. And with such extreme temperatures experienced here in Canada, that’s a lot for our exterior surfaces to endure. Though winter is the most damaging season, the summer season can also present threats that can lead to significant problems if they’re ignored or go unnoticed. That’s why having a least one annual roof inspection is a smart move to ensure there are no underlying problems that could cost you. From summer storms to extreme heat and humidity, read on to learn about some of the most destructive effects that the hot summer weather can have on your roof.
UV Rays
We know that UV rays can do harm to our skin and health, but not many people realize that they can also cause damage to your roof. Constant exposure to UV rays can place a lot of stress on roofing materials, causing shingles to buckle and break off, and wood to dry out, bleach and crack. This can weaken and compromise the structure of your roof over time.
Intense Heat
When the summer sun is glaring down, you can close the curtains and crank up the AC to avoid it. But your roof is exposed to it every minute of the day. As temperatures climb around 30 degrees, the shingles and roofing materials absorb the heat which causes the materials to deteriorate and wear down more rapidly. This is especially true for shingles that are darker in colour and don’t have any shade from neighbouring trees.
Intense Summer Storms
The summer season can pack in some intense storms as well. High winds, heavy rain, falling tree limbs and hail can cause all sorts of problems for your roof. From pooling water and leaks to damaged flashing and missing shingles – storms can leave your roof exposed and more vulnerable to costly repairs or even a replacement. You should always check over your roof for blockages and damage following a bad storm or have a roofing expert do it for you.
Two of the most important steps that homeowners can take during the summer to prevent serious and expensive problems from occurring is to keep an eye on it, either by getting up to inspect it safely on your own or hiring a roofing professional to do it for you. The second step is to inspect the attic. Improper ventilation can be a major culprit of roof damage in the summer. If your roof is in need of an annual inspection, repairs or a replacement, feel free to contact us at Roofmaster.
