(Newswire.net — May 23, 2020) —
Though often overlooked, a home’s roof is amongst its most vital components. This large covering protects the underlying structures, the dwelling’s residents and their possessions safe from potentially harsh elements like temperature extremes, wind and precipitation. Most roofs are made of durable materials designed to last extended durations. However, homeowners are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the following six stresses summer can place on their roofs:
Temperature Extremes
During the summer months, the intense heat produced by the sun’s ultraviolet rays will expose the roof to significant temperature extremes. Roofing professionals maintain that a home covering’s temperature can sometimes reach as high as 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Such excessive warmth may cause roofing materials to expand and weaken, which could result in damage.
In addition to oppressive temperatures, roofs can be exposed to another natural phenomenon known as thermal shock cycles. These events occur when significant daytime heat is immediately followed by rapid temperature reductions that lead to cool, potentially even cold nights. This too can cause roofing materials to expand, contract and eventually warp.
Sagging
Over time, progressive weakening of roofing materials could precipitate sagging, which becomes evident when certain sections of the structure sink and are visibly lower. Industry professionals maintain that sagging could elicit collapse at almost any time and is an emergency warranting immediate attention.
Leaks
Leaks occur because roof damage has become pronounced to allow the development of openings large enough to allow moisture to seep through. Even small leaks can precipitate significant water damage to a home’s interior. Occasionally, tiny protrusions or those confined to a specific area can simply be fixed. Unfortunately, however, a complete replacement will often be necessitated.
Additionally, leaks are not always easy for homeowners to detect. Granted, certain red flags, such as water stains on ceilings are readily discernible. However, other indicators might appear subtly. Issues to pay close attention to include hearing dripping sounds, stains on walls, moisture in the attic, mold growth inside the home and excess dampness on the roof, even when weather conditions are dry.
Ventilation Problems
Oppressive heat and humidity often lead to ventilation problems. Stifling, moist air can weaken roofing materials. That said, air circulation problems could also be the result of an improperly ventilated attic. The heat and humidity trapped inside these spaces often travel upwards and can wreak havoc on an unsuspecting roof.
Summer Storms
The summer season is often notorious for producing powerful storms. When the atmosphere reaches peak humidity, events containing potentially torrential rains, gusty winds and strong lightning strikes may emerge. Any one of the preceding meteorological phenomena possess the capacity to weaken and damage various roofing materials and components.
Additionally, heavy rains could exacerbate already existing leaks and produce more significant water damage to the home’s interior. Complicating matters is that these weather events could occur frequently, particularly in climates prone to experiencing excessive humidity.
Vegetation Growth
Summer storms that dump a significant amount of rain followed by warm temperatures precipitates vegetation growth. The two most common offenders are unsightly moss and algae. However, other untoward growth like weeds can also spring up atop roofs. Eventually, plant life can trap moisture into roofing materials. Progressively, said occurrence could precipitate weakening, damages and ultimately leaks.
Steps Homeowners Can Employ
Arguably, the most proactive measure a homeowner can take in addressing potential summer-related roofing problems is to address said issues before the season commences. In the late spring, homeowners are encouraged to consult with a professional roofing contractor and have representatives of said establishment perform a thorough inspection. During this evaluation, licensed and experienced roofers can identify any potential underlying problems, suggest the most appropriate corrective measures and put such strategies into action.
In conclusion, homeowners should not wait for a problem to occur. Usually, once visible issues are detected, damage is significant and costly repairs or a full replacement will be necessary. Rather, said individuals should realize natural phenomena associated with summer are potential pitfalls to a healthy roof and they need to execute measures ahead of time to ensure the structure is in optimal shape and can withstand the punishment the season could inflict.