Did you know that high temperatures can harm your roof? While it is a common belief that the sun and hot weather are not good for us, few people realize its damaging effects on one of the most important parts of your home. High heat has been known to cause fading, cracking, warping, distress, and leaking in roofs. The worst part is these effects often go unnoticed until it’s too late and costly damages have already occurred. Below, we will discuss how high heat affects roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or tiles, and we’ll provide practical advice on methods of prevention and roofing repair.
1. Roofing Materials and How They Are Affected by Heat
Heat significantly impacts roofing materials, as certain materials are more susceptible to damage if exposed to extreme temperatures.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing option due to their affordability and durability. However, they are also susceptible to damage from high heat exposure. When temperatures rise, asphalt shingles can expand and contract, which can cause cracking and splitting.
Additionally, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause the shingles to lose their granules and become brittle, leading to premature aging and deterioration. To combat this problem, ensure your roof has proper insulation and ventilation. This will help reduce the heat trapped in your attic, keeping shingles cool and reducing their chances of warping or cracking. Additionally, we recommend that you have your roof inspected regularly for signs of damage caused by high temperatures.
Clay or Concrete Tiles
Tile roofing in Arizona is known for it’s resistance to high temperatures but can still be affected by extreme heat if not cared for properly. Clay and concrete tiles are subject to fading when exposed to prolonged periods of intense sunlight.
This damage is usually visible through chipping away at the tile’s glaze. In some cases, it can cause cracking due to rapid expansion and contraction under extreme heat conditions. To prevent this, you should ensure that your roof is shaded from direct sunlight with trees or awnings and provide proper ventilation to keep your attic cool.
You should also check your tiles frequently for signs of damage, such as cracks and chipping. If any of these problems are detected early on, you may be able to save time and money by making repairs before it’s too late.
Metal Roofs
With their ability to reflect sunlight and heat, metal roofs are quite resistant to the damaging effects of high temperatures. However, they can get destroyed due to extreme temperatures. The metal can expand or contract quickly, which can cause warping, buckling, and even corrosion.
To prevent damage to your metal roof, you should first have a professional install your roof. This will ensure that any weak spots are dealt with before they become major problems. A roofing contractor like Axis Roofing helps residents of Mesa, AZ and the surrounding areas with professional roof installation to help them lengthen the lifespan of their roofs.
2. Heat-Related Problems and Roofing
Heat-related issues can also occur in roofing. If your roof is not properly ventilated, heat buildup can damage shingles or other materials that make up the roof.
Fading and Discoloration
Unfortunately, the intense heat from the sun can take its toll on your roof, causing unwanted damage and issues. One of the most noticeable effects of high heat on your roof is fading and discoloration. You may notice that your roof’s color has faded or become lighter than it once was, or it may show discoloration in certain areas due to the extreme temperatures.
This not only affects the aesthetic appeal of your home but can also impact the effectiveness of your roof’s protection. Therefore, monitoring any changes in your roof’s appearance and addressing them as soon as possible is important to prevent further damage.
Warping
When temperatures rise to extreme levels, your roof’s material can expand and contract, causing it to warp and buckle. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also lead to water damage, leaks, and a compromised structure.
This expansion, if left unchecked, can cause permanent damage to your roof. Warping usually occurs in wooden roofs, but it can also affect other materials used in roofing. If you suspect that your roof has warped due to high heat, call a professional roofing contractor for advice on repairs or replacements.
Cracking and Splitting
Imagine waking up to the sound of raindrops on your roof, only to discover that your roof has developed cracks and splits due to high heat exposure. As temperatures rise, so does the risk of damage to your roof. Cracking and splitting are some of the most common issues homeowners face when it comes to high heat affecting their roofs.
The intense heat, combined with the UV rays from the sun, can gradually weaken and break down the materials used in your roof. This can lead to leaks, and in some extreme cases, you may need to replace your entire roof.
3. Tips for Keeping Your Roof Cool
Cool roofs can effectively reduce energy costs and help keep your home cooler during hot weather. Here are several steps you can take to ensure your roof stays as cool as possible.
Use Roof Coatings
These coatings are specially designed to reflect sunlight and heat away from your home, helping to keep the roof surface cooler. They come in various options, from white reflective coatings to aluminum coatings, and they can be applied to most types of roofs. Roof coatings prolong the lifespan of your roof by preventing damage from harsh UV rays.
Add a Coat of Paint
A fresh coat of paint is an excellent way to keep your roof cooler. Not only will this add extra protection from the sun’s rays, but it can also hide fading or discoloration that may have occurred due to intense heat exposure. If you’re considering painting your roof, use light-colored paints as they reflect more sunlight and heat away from the surface than darker colors.
Install a Ridge Vent
A ridge vent is a type of ventilation system that runs along the peak of your roofline, allowing hot air to escape from your attic. This helps keep your attic cool and prevents the buildup of heat, which can damage your roof. Installing a ridge vent is not only cost-effective, but it also helps reduce energy bills as well.
Consider Using Solar Reflective Shingles
Solar reflective shingles are a roofing material designed to reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorb them, helping keep your roof cooler. These shingles can usually be installed over an existing roof and come in various colors and textures, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want to add style to their roofs while keeping them cool. Additionally, these shingles provide extra protection from UV rays which can cause fading and discoloration on your roof.
High heat can have a devastating impact on your roof, leading to unwanted damage and issues. To protect your home from the effects of high temperatures, it’s important to be aware of potential problems that could arise and take steps to prevent them. From using roof coatings and adding a fresh coat of paint to installing ridge vents and considering solar reflective shingles, many options are available for keeping your roof cool during extreme weather conditions. Taking the necessary precautions now can save you time and money in the long run by preventing costly damage from occurring in the future.
At Axis Roofing, we provide commercial roofing, residential roofing, and storm damage repair services in Mesa, AZ. Our experienced and certified roofing contractors are equipped to handle your roofing needs. Contact us today for more information.
