How to Protect Your Roof from Summer Heat
When the sun starts to shine, roof maintenance is the last thing on your mind. By the time the summer heat begins to be a daily occurrence, you don’t have to worry about leaves in your gutters or winter storms. Of course, your roof still requires regular maintenance and upkeep during this season, especially once summer heat raises the temperature.
Unfettered summer heat can negatively affect your roof and take a heavy toll on the lifespan of a roof. The first step is to understand how summer heat can impact your roof, and then you can take the necessary steps to protect your home. Here’s what you need to know.
The Biggest Impacts of Summer Heat
Even though Earth is closer to the sun during winter, the summer months pose the highest risk to your roof. That’s because of the way the Earth tilts, and the sun’s rays hit the Northern Hemisphere directly. That’s why the risk to your roof is greater during the summer than at any other time of year.
4 Main Factors of Summer Heat
UV Light
Ultraviolet light hits your roof directly during the summer. UV light is so intense during this time of year that it can penetrate the clouds on overcast days. No roof is safe from UV light during the summer—it’s the same reason sunscreen is not an option between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
UV light causes your roof’s materials to decay faster than expected. With enough time, wood will bleach and crack, shingles will peel, and parts of your roof will become dry and brittle. These things combined result in a shorter roof lifespan.
High Temperatures
There’s no question that summer heat brings higher temperatures. If it’s hot outside, the temperature of your roof will be blazing. Even a 90-degree day can lead to roof temperatures of over 150 degrees. Darker roofs can get even hotter, and high temperatures cause roof materials to break down and decay acceleratedly.
High Humidity
It’s one thing to be hot, and it’s another thing to be hot and humid. As anyone from the Bayou State can attest, summers in Louisiana are anything but dry. In fact, Louisiana is the third most humid state during the summer, with an average RH of 75%.
Humid air creates condensation that can easily collect under your shingles. Water collection is a significant problem for roofs, as it can lead to water damage, leaks, and other issues. Moisture can also lead to mold, mildew, and algae growing on your roof, which are their own issues.
Thermal Shock
The hot temperatures during the day often build quickly and decline just as fast as the sun goes down. A rapid change in temperature causes construction materials to expand and contract, which weakens the entire roof structure. Metal roofs are especially problematic, as the material can warp and cause large gaps in the roof.
How to Protect Your Roof from Summer Heat
As you can see, the summer heat can cause severe problems with your roof. Luckily, you can take several preventative measures to protect your home from the dangers of summer heat.
Add Shading
You don’t have to plant mature trees to add shade to your roof. You can hire a Lafayette roofing maintenance professional to install polyurethane foam on your roof. Not only does this foam add a waterproof layer to your roof, but it also protects it from harmful UV rays. Polyurethane foam comes in various styles and colors, which helps it add years to your roof’s life and add to the overall aesthetic of your home.
Add Insulation and Ventilation
Contrary to common belief, insulation isn’t just for winter months, and insulation can also keep the heat outside of the house during the summer. Proper roof ventilation keeps the air flowing in your attic and prevents trapped heat, moisture build-up, and moisture. Even if your roof already had an attic fan or a ventilation system, you could benefit from reevaluating your roof’s airflow needs. Contact your local residential roofing company to explore improving your roof’s ventilation system.
Upgrade Your Roof
If it’s time to replace your roof, it might be worth exploring some upgrades. For example, a higher slope roof can change the angle at which the sun’s rays hit your house. You can also switch your shingles to something with a lighter color. A lighter roof will reflect more light than a darker one, keeping dangerous UVs away from your home. A Lafayette roofing professional can help you explore the best options for your home.
Get Regular Inspections
Even with every preventative measure available, it’s impossible to shield your roof from the summer heat completely. Most experts agree that a qualified roofing company should inspect your roof at least once a year. A professional can find minor issues before they become more significant problems. Proper maintenance of your roof will do wonders to increase its lifespan.
Protect Your Roof with Hibbard Roofing & Construction
Hibbard Roofing & Construction is the leading installer and maintainer of residential and commercial roofs in the Lafayette area. We pride ourselves on stellar customer service, affordable pricing, and quality workmanship. Whether you need a roof inspection, repairs, or a new roof, give us a call for a free quote and consultation. Don’t let the summer heat shorten your roof’s lifespan. Give us a call to explore your options today.