Your roof is built to take a lot of punishment. It is exposed to extreme weather conditions, pests, and flying debris, all of which can cause a lot of damage. High heat can really take a toll on your roof if it doesn’t have much shade.
When the heat beats down on your roof all day, the temperature on your roof can be almost twice the actual temperature outside. This can cause your roof to disintegrate quickly.
The Effects of Heat on Your Roof and Possible Solutions
The high temperature hitting your roof during the day is a lot for your roof to withstand. When it’s hot and then the temperature drops significantly at night, this can cause problems for your roof.
The roof will expand and then contract. This is called thermal shock and if it happens frequently, your roof is going to wear out much faster than it needs to. It can be extremely hard on certain roofing materials.
While there is nothing you can do about the sun, you can take steps to protect your roof.
Regular Maintenance
Keep your roof in great shape by removing any debris that has landed there. Broken branches, leaves, garbage, and animals. Make sure you repair any broken shingles, eaves, or flashing that may have minor damage.
Ventilation
Proper attic ventilation is a great way to keep your roof cooler. It prevents the heat from building up inside the home and keeps the condensation down. This helps regulate the temperature of your roof.
Inspections
Having your roof inspected regularly will help expand its life. Your roofing contractor will be able to see damages or potential damages that you are not aware of.
How Does Heat Affect Asphalt Shingles?
If your roof is made with asphalt shingles, the sun and heat will eventually cause damage. When they sit under the hot sun, they can get dried out and crack.
They can also start to shrink when the moisture is baked out of them. The nails holding them down may start to pop out and the shingles will become loose. Cracks and shrinking shingles can expose your roof to moisture damage.
Depending on the type of flashing your roof has it can also become damaged when it is extremely hot. Once the flashing is damaged, there is a risk of water and moisture getting inside.
What Are the Best Ways to Cool Your Roof?
Keeping your roof cooler during the hot months will keep the inside of your home cooler, protect your roof, and keep your energy bill in check. There are a few things you can do.
Check Ventilation
Proper ventilation is one of the best ways to keep your roof cool. When the heat is beating down on your roof and the heat is rising inside the house, it just adds to the pressure your roof is already experiencing.
Go With a Lighter Color
A darker roof will absorb more heat and make the roof and the home much hotter. If possible, paint or reroof to get a lighter color to keep the amount of heat absorbed to a minimum.
Check Attic Insulation
The insulation in your attic may be thin or damaged. It can start to fall away or even be damaged by a small animal that has taken up residence. Replace the insulation in the ceiling and walls.
Asphalt Shingles
If you are looking to change your roofing materials, consider asphalt shingles. They are affordable and will help keep your roof cooler. Go with a lighter color if you live in a hot climate.
Solar Reflective Shingles
These tiles and shingles can help to keep your roof and home much cooler in the summer and cut back your energy consumption. They are made to reflect solar and infrared radiation.
Add Shade
If possible, try adding some trees or other types of vegetation that will help absorb the sunlight and keep it off your roof. There is also net shading or green fiber that you can install on your roof.
How Does Heat Affect Metal Roofs?
There is a common misconception that a metal roof will make your home hotter. This isn’t true. A metal roof will actually reflect a lot of heat and sunlight rather than absorb it.
A metal roof acts like a thermal barrier on your roof and helps to keep the roof and your home cooler. Metal is a popular choice for roofs because it is affordable with little maintenance.
Opt for a lighter color and consider a coating for your metal roof. This will help keep your roof and home cooler. There is a wide variety of metal roofs to choose from.
Contact us today for all your roofing questions or for more helpful tips on roof health.
