What is the one thing you can be sure will happen this summer? It is going to be hot! For sure, the sun is going to beat down and heat up everything, including your house. And your roof bears the brunt of the high temperatures and the harmful effects it can have on your home. To protect it from the sun and other summertime problems, you must first know what to look out for.
Contact a roofing contractor near you for expert advice and tips.
So, what are some common roofing issues that occur during the summer?
High temperatures can cause shingles to crack and break. Storms and high winds can also break shingles and damage your roof. When shingles break, water can leak through your roof, which breeds mold and mildew. Unwanted visitors like rodents and insects can create roofing problems, too.
Although leaves mostly fall in autumn, summer storms can knock leaves and branches off trees and into your gutters and drainpipes. If they get clogged, it can lead to water damage on your roof.
So, What is the Most Common Summer Roofing Problem?
The intense summer sun is not just damaging to your skin, it can be harmful to your roof, too. The high temps can cause cracks in the shingles and if water gets in, the combination of moisture and warmth is perfect for mold growth. The sun may be nice to have for beach days and to help your garden blossom, but it can be rough on your roof, without proper maintenance.
Water can also be a common, hidden enemy. When it sneaks in through cracks and gets heated up, it begins the decaying process, which is a very bad thing for your home. Those cracks also let in critters, and no one likes uninvited company, especially ones that could carry disease or make a snack out of your home.
Moss is another problem that thrives in the summer heat, especially in the shade. When it starts growing between your shingles, it lets in moisture and insects. If left unchecked, it can spread and compromise the effectiveness of your shingles.
So, What are the Signs to Look for in Summer Roof Damage?
A glaring sign of summer roof damage is missing or broken shingles. This could be caused by storms, debris hitting the house, vermin, or excessive heat. If you walk outside after a bad storm and see a shingle or two on the ground, you need to have it inspected right away. The longer you wait, the greater the chance of a high repair bill.
Water stains on your ceilings could also indicate roof damage. If the leaks are so bad that stains are showing up on the interior of your home, you probably have mold issues, too. Other signs of summer roof damage include bad ventilation or foul odors caused by blocked or clogged roof vents.
Related Questions
So, What are Some Tips for Summer Roof Care?
Inspect your roof for any missing or cracked shingles after strong winds or heavy rain. You should also keep your gutters and drainage system clear so there’s no water backup. Trim tree branches that are close to your house, and, depending on the type of shingle you have put on a fresh coat of sealant each year.
So, What are Some Causes of Water Leaks?
Besides broken shingles, leaks occur from improperly installed skylights, gaps around the vent pipes, or through old chimney cracks.
Overall
Summer should be a time of fun in the sun and not a time of stressing over broken shingles and other common roofing problems. With regular maintenance and inspections, you’ll have peace of mind that your home can withstand even the harshest of summer heat.
Free Estimate on Roofing, Siding and Gutters!
Contact Excel Home Improvement in Romulus to schedule a roof inspection and make sure your summer is off to a good start with a solid roof. A roof that is intact and properly installed lends decades of protection and home efficiency. Our residential roofing services include roof repair, roof maintenance, roof replacement and new installation.
We also specialize in siding installation and repair, gutter installation as well as soffits and trim. Is your Michigan home prepared to take on unpredictable seasonal storms year-round? It will be when you contact us here at Excel Home Improvement!