As you obviously know, we’ve had an excessively hot summer this year, to the point where it can not only affect you own health, but also the health of your home…your roof in particular. We’ve listed a few ways here how record heat is damaging your roof – and what you can do about it.
Most roofing materials are built to withstand a certain level of heat, but prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause wear and tear over time. Here are some common problems caused by heat to a roof:
Expansion and Contraction. During a hot day, roofing materials will expand, and then contract when the temperature cools down at night. Continuous expansion and contraction ultimately weakens the roofing materials, causing cracks, splits and deterioration.
Damage From UV Radiation. Intense sunlight during heat waves exposes roofs to ultraviolet radiation. Over time, excessive exposure to radiation causes degrading of the chemical composition of roofing materials, and they become brittle, discolored and cracked.
Warping and Buckling. Roofing materials made from plastic or wood especially can buckle under extreme heat. This can ultimately cause leaks or further problems.
Damaged Shingles. Asphalt shingles can lose granules and soften in long periods of heat. This causes the shingles to lose their protective capabilities and makes the roof more vulnerable to weather damage.
Roof Deck Damage. The structural support of the roof can also be affected. It can rot and sag over long periods of heat, and cause structural problems.
Moisture Issues. In excessive heat, moisture can be trapped underneath roofing materials, and ultimately evaporate into the attic or roof space. This can cause mold growth and further damage to the roof.
During hot summers like this one, and in preparation for future summers, you can take several steps:
– Install roofing materials that can withstand high temperatures more effectively.
– Ensure that your roof is properly ventilated, and allows heat to escape and prevent buildup of moisture.
– Apply a reflective coating or take advantage of roof cooling technology that helps to reduce the absorption of heat.
– Have your roof inspected and maintained regularly by a roofing professional, who can identify potential problems before they become more serious.
When Heat Is Damaging Your Roof, Contact Us.
If you’re a Roswell, New Mexico area home or business owner concerned about how the record heat is damaging your roof, contact the team at TrustMark Roofing today. We can come out to your property and give it a complete inspection, perform any repairs, and let you know whatever fixes you need.
Call us at 575-755-7663 now, or click here to tell us what you need and request an estimate. Don’t let the heat ruin your roof…reach out to us today!
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