6 Summer Roofing Issues to Watch Out For

As the summer sun beams down, most of us think about beach trips, barbecues, and vacations. However, while we’re enjoying the sunny weather, our roofs are taking a beating. Summer can be particularly harsh on roofing materials, leading to various issues that homeowners need to be aware of. Understanding these problems can help you take proactive steps to maintain your roof’s health and longevity.

6 Summer Roofing Issues to Watch Out For

Summer poses several risks to the health of your roof, from heat and UV damage to moisture issues and pest intrusions. By understanding these challenges and taking proactive steps, you can protect your roof and extend its lifespan.

1. Heat Damage

The most obvious impact of summer on your roof is heat. High temperatures can cause roofing materials to expand and contract, which may lead to cracking and other forms of damage over time. Asphalt shingles, in particular, can become brittle and more susceptible to breakage so it’s important to keep an eye on them.

2. UV Radiation

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can deteriorate roofing materials, causing them to weaken and break down faster. Prolonged exposure can lead to fading, chalking, and even the disintegration of shingles. This not only affects the aesthetic appeal of your home but also compromises the roof’s ability to protect your house effectively.

3. Thermal Shock

Thermal shock occurs when there are significant fluctuations in temperature, such as a hot afternoon followed by a cool evening. This can cause roofing materials to expand and contract rapidly, leading to splits, cracks, and other structural issues. Over time, this can severely damage your roof, requiring extensive repairs or replacements. While nights in the Pacific Northwest tend to stay pretty warm in the summer, this can be relevant in September when nights get colder again as we get closer to fall.

4. Moisture Damage

Though we don’t tend to get a lot of rain here in the summer in the Pacific Northwest, an unexpected downpour can still be problematic for your roof. If your roof has any existing cracks or damage, water can seep in and cause leaks. Additionally, the combination of heat and moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can damage the underlying structure of your roof and pose health risks to your household.

5. Animal and Pest Intrusion

Warmer weather can also attract pests and animals to your roof. Birds, squirrels, and insects often look for places to nest or seek shelter. They can cause significant damage by chewing through roofing materials or creating nests in gutters and other vulnerable areas.

6. Ventilation Issues

Proper roof ventilation is crucial, especially during the hot summer months. Without adequate ventilation, heat can build up in the attic, increasing your home’s internal temperature and putting additional strain on your air conditioning system (if you have one). This can lead to higher energy bills and potential damage to roofing materials from the trapped heat.

Take Steps to Protect Your Roof This Summer

To safeguard your roof from these summer issues, consider the following proactive measures:

• Regular inspections. Schedule regular roof inspections, especially before and after the summer season. A professional roofing company can identify and fix small issues before they become major problems.
• Proper ventilation. Ensure your attic has proper ventilation to prevent heat buildup and reduce the risk of thermal shock.
• Clean gutters. Keep your gutters clean and free of debris to prevent water backup and potential leaks.
• Trim trees. Trim any overhanging branches to prevent animals from accessing your roof and reduce the risk of damage from falling limbs during storms.
• Repair damage promptly. Address any signs of damage immediately to prevent further deterioration.

Call a Local Roofing Company

Dealing with summer roofing issues can be daunting, but you don’t have to handle it alone. A professional roofing company has the expertise and tools to ensure your roof is in optimal condition. Whether it’s performing a detailed inspection, making necessary repairs, or providing maintenance tips, a local roofing company can offer valuable assistance to keep your roof in great shape all summer long.

Enjoy your summer with the confidence that your roof is well-protected and maintained. Contact a local roofing company to schedule an inspection and ensure your roof is ready to handle whatever summer throws at it.

Malarkey Shingles

At Skyline Roofing, we use Malarkey shingles, which are designed to help keep roofs cool in hot weather by reflecting the sun’s rays away from your home. Malarkey shingles use 3M™ Cool Roofing Granules that can reflect up to 25% of the sun’s energy, which can help lower energy bills, improve air quality, and reduce heat-related illnesses. The granules also reflect ultraviolet (UV) rays to help reduce solar heat from entering the home. 

Our roofers have years of experience installing shingles in the summer, always ensuring that we follow best practices for a quality installation.

Trust Skyline Roofing & Construction for Your Roof Maintenance & Installation Needs

At Skyline Roofing & Construction our roofing professionals always strive to add value to your home or business for the long term – that includes installing quality roofing and maintaining your roofing investment. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation for a new roof, roof repair, roof maintenance, or roof cleaning services. Skyline Roofing is located in Bellingham, WA and we presently serve Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties.

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