Can Your Roof Develop Heat Damage?

Your roof endures various weather conditions throughout the year. While made to withstand the elements, it can still develop damage from prolonged exposure to harsh conditions. During summer, the intense heat can compromise its integrity. Read on to find out what rising temperatures can do to your roof. 

What Can Heat Do to Your Roof?

Thermal Cycling

Heat directly interacts with building materials. Your roof could experience constant expansion and contraction from drastic temperature changes throughout the day. Thermal cycling can cause components to warp, crack or break. Over time, it can cause shingles to become brittle and lose their granules, diminishing their water resistance and UV protection. 

UV Damage

The sun’s UV rays can be tough on roofs. Shingles can degrade from prolonged exposure to these rays, causing them to fade, weaken and eventually fail. Even on cloudy days, UV radiation can penetrate roofing materials, harming the entire system’s health. 

What Can Exacerbate These Issues?

Insufficient Ventilation  

Heat-related roofing issues don’t only happen because of outdoor elements. If your attic doesn’t have enough ventilation, heat can get trapped and accelerate the deterioration of roofing components. This heat can travel to your living space, causing your HVAC system to work harder than it should and consume more electricity.  

 

Moisture can also accumulate in your attic due to poor airflow. Excessive heat and humidity can encourage mold growth, harming your family’s health. It can increase the risk of rot in the wooden roofing components.

What Can You Do to Avoid Them?

Ensure Adequate Ventilation 

Proper attic ventilation can do more than reduce the likelihood of heat damage. It can also contribute to your roof’s longevity, help reduce energy bills and improve indoor air quality. A thorough professional inspection can reveal if you need to improve your roof and attic’s ventilation. 

Regular Inspection and Maintenance 

You don’t need to wait for damage to occur before having your roof checked. Regular inspections and maintenance allow pros to catch and fix minor issues before they become major problems. Experts recommend scheduling roof inspections at least once a year and after weather extremes. 

If you suspect your roof has damage, contact professionals right away. Turn to Done Right Home Improvements for prompt and efficient repair services. We deliver roofing solutions tailored to your unique needs. Call us at (402) 791-6602 or fill out our online form to get started.