Ways Summer weather causes roof damage from Republic Roofing. Summer weather can take a real toll on a roof. Extreme heat and humidity can cause the roof to buckle, and the sun’s ultraviolet rays can break down roofing materials. If you’ve ever laid a metal ruler on top of a hot stove, you know how it buckles. A hot roof will do the same thing, but over time it can permanently warp the structural integrity of your roofing system.
What’s more, homeowners often put off inspecting their roofs in the summer because they’re busy enjoying the season. But you should be checking your roof regularly — at least once a month — and making roof repairs as soon as any problems appear. Here are some of the most common types of roof damage caused by summer weather:
Ways Summer Weather Causes Roof Damage
Rotted Roof Decking
A roof deck is the base of your roof. It’s essentially the frame supporting your roof. So if there’s damage to your decking, chances are there’s likely damage to other parts of your roof as well. Think of your roof decking like the foundation of your home. If anything goes wrong with that foundation, you can expect to see problems throughout the rest of your home.
Your roof decking is made of plywood or OSB (oriented strand board) and sits directly on top of your rafters. It forms the base of your roof, which means it needs to be structurally sound to support the weight of your roof. Since roof decking is made of wood, it’s susceptible to water damage.
Water damage can occur in your roof decking for a variety of reasons, such as weather conditions and poor ventilation. When water gets trapped under your roof decking, it causes the wood to expand and contract. This causes warping, bending, and rotting of the wood, which can lead to it not being able to support the weight of the rest of the roof or keep itself firmly attached to your attic and rafters. The roof will then collapse due to its own weight. There are few situations more devastating than a collapsed roof. Not only are you at risk for personal injury or worse, but your belongings are also vulnerable to being destroyed by water or falling debris.
Moss and Mold Growth
Water damage is the number one threat to your roof’s health. When water sits on a roof, it has nowhere to go. It can penetrate the tiny cracks in your roof and cause problems, including moss, mold, and mildew growth, leading to a dangerous condition.
Moss is a beautiful addition to any garden, but when it starts growing on your roof, it quickly becomes a problem. Moss growth on your roof is dangerous because it can cause leaks and structural damage to your home. It does not absorb water like the shingles, so when there are leaks in your roof, the moss can make things worse by allowing water to seep through. This causes more mold and mildew to grow and further damages the materials. Molds are not just unsightly; they can be dangerous to your health. They produce allergens that can trigger asthma, rhinitis, and other conditions. Some people are more sensitive than others to the allergens produced by molds.
Cracked or Warped Shingles
Moisture is the primary cause of most roof damage, but it isn’t the only culprit. In fact, the sun can do as much — if not more — damage as rain and snow.
The temperature on the surface of the roof can get extremely hot which can lead to warping and cracking of the shingles. Asphalt shingles are built for hot weather – they’re designed to deflect heat and resist UV rays. But prolonged exposure to high temperatures can still cause them to degrade and become brittle, and prone to cracking come to the next storm.
Don’t Let the Dog Days Get You Down
The summer sun can do a number on your asphalt shingles. Exposure to intense sunlight can cause the material to fade, crack or discolor.
If you’re concerned about the appearance or durability of your roof, don’t wait until the damage gets worse. Call Republic Roofing & Restoration for a free inspection! From Collierville to Memphis, we’ll work with you to design a roof that fits your needs, style, and budget. Contact Republic Roofing & Restoration online or call 901-437-5278 to request a quote and schedule an in-home consultation today in Collierville, and Memphis, TN.