3 Ways the Summer Can Impact Your Roof

It’s common to only think about your roof when it has a problem or when the weather conditions may obviously affect it, such as when your roof is covered in snow or there are winter storms. However, summer can also impact your roof in three important ways.

1. Summer Storms

Storms can occur any time of the year. Strong winds can rip the shingles off your roof, leaving the wood beneath exposed to the elements.

2. Heat

Not only is it hotter in the summer, the days are also longer, meaning your roof is exposed to heat for more hours. This can impact your roof’s integrity and may even be enough to damage an older roof.

Heat is especially a problem in climates with cold winters because the change in temperature from winter to summer is dramatic. Plus, there may be great differences in temperature from day to night, meaning your roof is constantly expanding in the heat and later contracting again with the cold.

The effects of heat depend on the type of roofing materials. For instance, asphalt shingles can crack or even shrink when exposed to too much heat. Concrete and clay shingles become weak and their colour can fade over time. Metal shingles are the most well-suited to hot climates, as they reflect UV rays away from the building. However, it’s important to receive a professional installation to avoid oil canning.

You can check for heat damage by looking up at your roof from the ground and checking for any balding, buckling, or peeling shingles. Also use your attic or crawl space to check for cracks and other damage and to confirm you have sufficient ventilation.

3. Humidity

Using air conditioning over the summer can increase the humidity in your home. The water vapour can collect in the attic or under the shingles, where it can cause mold and mildew to grow. In addition to posing a health risk, this can damage your roof. If you notice any dampness or rotting in your attic, seek a repair immediately.

If you suspect your roof has any problems, it’s important to seek services from a contractor who specializes in roofing. Edmonton homeowners can turn to Weatherproof Roofing. We can repair your roof, advise you if it’s time for a replacement, and make sure your roof will last through the summer — and for many more seasons after. Contact us for a free estimate.