How Does the Sun Affect My Roof?

As a homeowner, you must know how harsh summer elements can damage your roof. This knowledge will lead you to protect your property adequately. 

Here, we will show you the effects of sun and heat on your roofing system.

How the Sun Can Damage Your Roof

Sunny beach days can bring images of warmth and relaxation to our minds. But too much exposure to the sun can be harmful! Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is abundant in the strong sunshine we receive. These harmful rays are invisible to the naked eye. But they can destroy any object left in their path for extended periods.

• UV Radiation Can Easily Brittle Roofing Materials

Surely, you have forgotten an object and left it in the sun. So, you know firsthand the harm that ultraviolet light can cause. Just imagine how much damage your roof takes every day! 

The powerful UV rays of the middle sun may damage even the best roofing system. The underlayment might dry up and break, and roof tiles can become brittle. Besides, shingles are prone to blistering and cracking because of a lack of ventilation in the roof’s structure. 

• Roofing Also Suffers from Heat Damage

During the day in the summer, your roof will reach elevated temperatures. Because of this, your shingles and other roofing materials expand. But they will return to normal proportions overnight when the temperature drops. 

Temperature changes cause thermal stress to your roof because of the constant expansion and contraction. Therefore, the roof will deteriorate, break, and eventually leak. 

How to Protect Your Roof Against the Sun and Heat

You cannot avoid your roof receiving the sun’s harsh rays. Yet, you can do some things to safeguard it!

• Keep Your Gutters Clean

Take care of your roof by regularly cleaning your gutters and roof of dirt, leaves, nuts, or branches. Blocked gutters cause critical issues for your roof. Besides the effects of direct sunlight and high temperatures, a clogged drainage system can hasten the deterioration of your roof.

• Properly Ventilate Your Roof 

One of the most common problems we see with roofs is inadequate ventilation. The durability of your roof will decrease if it is not well-ventilated. Blisters will break out all over the shingles, making them look bad. Eventually, the shingles will fail over time. Hence, call a professional to check your roof’s ventilation.

• Get Regular, Professional Roof Inspections 

An expert must examine your roof at regular intervals to catch problems early. This way, you will avoid them from becoming expensive disasters. When there is a little roof issue, our personnel can identify it and fix it immediately. 

We can repair relatively easy roof issues, including missing shingles, rotted pike jacks, worn-out flashing, and cracked caulk.

• Pipe Jacks and Caulk Require Routine Upkeep

Too frequently, homeowners do not notice slight roof flaws until it is too late, and they require significant repairs. Not all storm damage is apparent from the ground. However, it is critical to have a roof inspection after every storm. 

Caulk and plastic pipe jacks fade quickly in the sun. So, every few years, you should have your roof inspected to look for deteriorated caulking or pipe jacks. You can replace these elements every ten to fifteen years. 

Don’t Ignore Your Roof’s Needs

Roofing is not high on your list of priorities. We understand. However, a faulty roof can lead to grave problems. Remember that your roof is your home’s first defense if a natural disaster occurs. 

Therefore, you must not neglect roof inspections and any necessary repairs. Solve as soon as possible any damage to your roof, no matter how small, or it will eventually collapse. 

By hiring a professional roofer, you can keep your roof in good condition and avoid major repairs. 

For more information, contact RRG Roofing at 678-326-4951. We service areas in Dahlonega, Blairsville, Hiawassee, and Alpharetta, GA.