The roof is what makes a shelter complete, and it is not surprising that people put the need for housing as “having a roof over your head.” Unfortunately, this significant feature also suffers from negligence and constant exposure to harsh weather elements. It requires regular maintenance, regular checkup for repairs and replacement. Many homeowners cite the following as common causes of roof damage: heat, water, ice dams and wind. Below are their effects and how they compromise the integrity of your roofing system.
Curling
Although roofs are meant to shift and adapt when there is a change in temperature, they lose their tenacity with time. The shingles begin to curl and warp when the heat is extensive, and it becomes hard for them to get back to their initial positioning. While the curling may be minute at first, the roofing material’s damage builds up and become noticeable with time.
Decay
Long-term exposure of shingles to ultraviolet rays causes a progressive break down of their structural composition. It makes them brittle and causes the shedding of granules into the downspouts. In extreme cases, they will appear rotten. Where the roof gets to this level of degradation resulting from heat damage, new roofing is ideal for preventing leakage during the wet seasons.
Thermal Splitting and Cracking
The constant heating and cooling results in thermal expansion and contraction. Persistent movement results in detachment of different pieces and cracking on the roof. Other times the problem is an extension of curling. If there is sudden expansion or curling, the shingles could move so far that cracks develop in the folds.
Fading
Just like in clothes, the sun has a bleaching effect on the roof. It causes degradation of the color quality over time, making the roof have a bleached appearance.
Once you notice wear and tear from sun damage, schedule an inspection with a trusted local contractor. Roofing companies in Salt Lake City, Utah, often evaluate the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate remedies. Where the effect is intensive, reroofing may be the solution. In case the damage is on individual shingles, replacement of the affected pieces will be appropriate.
Minimizing Damage Resulting from the Sun
Although the aging of your shingle roofing is inevitable, you can delay it by taking appropriate preventive measures. The first step in this is purchasing quality shingles. Good grade shingles will withstand high temperatures better and protect your roofing from premature deterioration.
Additionally, proper ventilation and insulation do a lot more than improve the energy efficiency of your home. A radiant barrier on the attic ceiling just below the roofline reflects heat from the roof. This intervention is likely to minimize damage and extend the lifespan of the roofing.
Another protective measure is applying a roof coating to protect the surface against the damaging rays. The coat should have a high rate of reflection and emission, so it can draw the sun away from the roof to minimize the temperature.
When the sun is severe, a bit of roof damage may occur. If you are not on the lookout for the above signs, you may not notice it until the rain starts. To avoid unpleasant surprises, conduct regular inspections and scheduled maintenance.
