While it’s nice to be free of the winter, the triple-digit temperatures that the Treasure Valley is currently experiencing can bring about its own set of issues. Excessive heat and sunlight can cause problems to your roof that are just as bad or worse than those caused during the cold winter months. In fact, summer can impact your roof’s integrity, causing other serious issues with your home. That’s why the Boise roofers at Madison Roofing would like to provide you with the following ways extreme heat can affect your roof.
Ultra-Violet Light
Let’s face it. Harsh UV rays from the sun can cause all sorts of damage. Not only can it damage our skin if we don’t wear sunscreen, but it can also fade and damage furniture, carpet, exterior paint, vehicles, and more. During a hot summer, the roof of your home is constantly exposed to ultra-violet light, whether it’s cloudy or not. Over time, this can cause asphalt shingles to wilt, split, cup, or crack.
High Temperatures
Unless your home is surrounded by large, mature shade trees, your roof will suffer from the effects of high temperatures. If your roof is made up of dark material, this heat will be absorbed, leading to temperatures of 160° F or more on a 100° F day. High temperatures such as these can cause the materials that make up your roof to break down rapidly. That’s why it’s essential to make sure your attic has adequate insulation to prevent heat from penetrating the interior of your home.
Thermal Shock
When triple-digit temperatures quickly cool down in the evening, this can result in thermal shock. This means the materials that make up your roof can rapidly expand and contract, weakening its structural integrity. This is often a big issue with metal roofs as its shape is liable to warping and gapping.
Drying
Extreme heat can also dry out roofing materials. When linings or structural materials dry out, they become brittle and crack. Left untreated, these fractures can weaken the structural integrity of your roof, causing it to become prone to leaks.
Popped Seams & Loose Screws
The combination of heat, UV rays, and thermal shock can lead to popped roof seams and loose screws. Things like skylights and vents are often prone to these types of summer damage.
Madison Roofing
The key to beating hot summer damage is to schedule ongoing roof maintenance to evaluate your roof’s vulnerability. To learn more about how the Boise roofers at Madison Roofing can protect your roof, or to get a free quote, contact us by filling out our online form or give our office a call at (208) 344-5379.
