When searching for a new roof, homeowners consider a wide array of factors like longevity, energy efficiency, and durability. While many roofing systems are designed to outlast severe weather events year after year, that doesn't necessarily mean they don't take a beating as time goes on.
No matter how strong and dependable your roof is, it will eventually reach the point of being tired and even showing physical signs of wear. If you live in an area that experiences high heat given off by the bright sun, your roof is more susceptible to damage caused by UV exposure. Sun bleaching can weaken the roof's structure over time and cause other issues, but what exactly can it do?
RoofCrafters has served Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina with superior roofing services for almost three decades. Being located in the South, we've seen the toll sun damage can take on even the most beautiful roofing systems. The good news is we're covering all you need to know when it comes to the sun and your roof so you can stay vigilant.
This article covers all the details involving what kind of damage the sun can do to your roof and what you can do to give your roofing system a hand during the warmer months. By the time you finish reading, you'll have a better understanding of what risks those hot summers can bring when it comes to your home's longevity. While sun damage isn't the end of the world, every homeowner should brush up on their knowledge every now and then! Are you ready to begin?
What Does the Sun Actually Do to Your Roof?
When thinking of outside sources that affect a roof's structure, many think of wind, hail, and rain. While the sun's rays are soothing and give us a boost of happiness, they're also powerful enough to cause damage- and your skin isn't the only thing they affect.
Sunlight consists of various types of radiation that slowly cause damage to roofing systems over time. Asphalt shingles are particularly vulnerable due to their coatings because they heat quickly. Eventually, asphalt shingles are known for warping and succumbing to wear and tear. When you live in hot and arid areas of the US, some roofers may suggest a clay or stone roof option. However, if you live in the Southeast, asphalt shingles are still excellent to choose as your roof style- they'll just need upkeep and regular maintenance.
So, what does the sun actually do to rooftops?
Cracking and Warping
Constant high temperatures and harsh sunshine cause shingles to warp and even crack over time. Call a professional roofer as soon as you see the first signs of this happening so they can assess the situation. Warping gets worse as time passes.
Bleaching
Darker asphalt shingle colors are popular and typically look good for several years- until sun bleaching gets a hold of them. Harmful sun rays fade the look of the color, but luckily, it doesn't cause much structural damage. It is, however, a cosmetic issue that alters the appearance of your roofing system.
Coating Issues
If your roofing system is layered with a protective coating, direct sun exposure could cause it to become dry and brittle as time goes on. Your roof won't be able to expand and contract the way it's meant to, and eventually, the coating may break off entirely and leave your roof vulnerable to elements like rain, wind, and other severe weather.
Temperature Raising/Thermal Shock
Your roof reaches extremely high temperatures during the day and then quickly cools off at night (especially if you live in the South.) When this happens, your roofing materials may expand and contract rapidly, causing them to lose their structural integrity or crack/warp over the years.
How Can I Protect My Roof from Sun Damage?
Not all roofs are created equally, and we make sure to let you know that here at RoofCrafters. Especially when it comes to heat reflection that keeps the inside of your home bearable in the summer months- you may have to do a little extra to ensure that. Certain materials, like asphalt, don't do you any particular favors in harsh sunlight, even though it's still a common and popular choice. The darker color and materials absorb sunlight, causing heat to infiltrate the inside of your home.
How to keep your roof cool and home comfortable during the summer depends mainly on personal preference for materials that last considerably well in high heat. Since there are various potential choices, you can choose the one that fits your personal style and the look of your home.
Some of the best summer roof materials include:
1. Terracotta Tile Roofing
2. Ceramic Roofing
3. Metal Roofing
4, Concrete or Slab Roofing
Please keep in mind that sun damage is a gradual process that happens over time. It's much more commonly seen on older roofs. If you have a brand new roof, this isn't an issue you should worry about for quite a while.
Is My Roof at Risk of Sun Damage?
As mentioned, roofs that have been around longer are more likely to sustain damage such as this. While it's always a fantastic idea to stay vigilant by taking outstanding care of your roof, some things just aren't very avoidable- and this is one of them. Very few roof types last forever, but remembering to enjoy your roof until it gets to the point of no return is key!
If you're ready to talk to an expert about your potential of having roof damage, there are professional roofers who are thrilled to walk with you as you navigate through the process! Not all roofers are going to give you the best experience out there, however, so ensure you do as much research as you possibly can. With a little effort and some browsing, you'll find a roofer that can give you the roof repair or replacement you've always wanted (or needed.)
So, now that you know a little more about sun damage, you may want to learn a bit more about other types of roof issues that cause harm. Check out our learning center to read up on different roofing topics! There's enough information to keep you prepared and ready for problems that could fly your way. And once you've decided you're prepared to get in touch with a roofer, check out our comprehensive checklist to determine what you should look out for before your next roofing project. To get in touch with one of our friendly RoofCrafters representatives, head over to our contact page.
