Although we often associate roof weather damage with harsh, colder weather conditions like wind and rain, the delightful and elating summer sun can actually impact roofing and its materials too. Though roofs are designed to withstand weather, and there are specific rood materials such as EPDM rubber that combat all weather conditions almost completely, hot temperatures can still affect our roofs in some ways. With that said, we are going to outline how exactly scorching summer temperatures can affect your roof this summer.
UV exposure
Your roof is regularly pounded with UV radiation from the sun, which causes it to degrade and deteriorate quicker than expected. You may believe that this only applies to prolonged, hot summer days, but the sun’s UV radiation can damage your roof even on chilly days.
This wavelength of energy is not visible to the human eye, but it causes your roofing and building materials to disintegrate and could gradually force your tiles to buckle and break. UV radiation has a significant effect on the condition of your roof, causing the components to deteriorate at a faster pace.
A solution to reducing the risks of UV ray exposure and radiation is to apply a roof coating to your roof. You could also have your roofing checked by a professional roofer, be it a roof repair north east company or a local roofing agency in your area.
Thermal shock
Thermal shock occurs when the temperature rises above average during the day and then falls precipitously at night. This rapid temperature change can lead to the roof membranes expanding in a short space of time. This can ultimately result in compromised structural integrity, which can lead to deformation, especially in metal roofing.
High humidity
Rising temperatures are commonly accompanied by unbearably humid conditions. Condensation forms in humid air and tends to build up and gather beneath tiles. This water accumulation would result in leaks and other water damage to your home and roof. Since moisture can encourage mould to grow, this can also pose a health risk. Over time, if roofs are not properly maintained, they are prone to having moisture trapped in their systems from all types of weather conditions.
Heat will build up in your loft if it is not adequately ventilated, increasing the temperature inside your house and creating condensation issues, as well as increasing your cooling energy expenses and carbon impact.
How summer heat impacts roofing
During the summer, your roof suffers the consequences of the sun’s rays and is subjected to extreme heat. Unshaded roofs can face some relatively high temperatures. Some; but not all, roof tiles may melt at these temperatures. Extreme summer heat can also accelerate the detrimental impact of UV radiation which creates additional issues.
Protecting your roof in summer
Installing solar panels on your roof is a great method to keep it cool and unaffected from the sun. Photovoltaic and solar collector panels are two types of solar panels. Photovoltaic solar panels generate energy from the sun, while solar collectors warm water in sun-exposed water tubes.
