Your roof is one of the most important aspects and installation in your building. Considering the cost of roofing your building, you will agree that it is best to keep it in good shape for as long as possible. There are many roofing materials to choose from on the market, all with different lifespans and expectations. However, they are all subject to the same conditions, especially when you live in Dallas.
The Dallas heat can put your roof at risk, and this is why you need to know how this weather element affects your roof and when to call your Dallas roofing company for help. Understanding the effects of heat and extreme heat on your roof can help define the signs to watch out for and, in turn, help you to protect your roof better. Find out the effect of heat on your roofing below.
How heat affects your roof
There are many ways by which heat at all levels affects the quality of the roof. Some of the most important effects include:
UV rays can shorten a roof’s lifespan
Your roof does a great job of shielding you and your indoor space from the direct effect of sunlight. With constant exposure to sunlight and UV rays contained in it, your roof may begin to lose its quality. UV rays are known to cause roofing materials to age quickly, which compromises the effectiveness of the roofing material.
It is important to note that roof aging due to UV rays and direct solar glare happens in all seasons, whether in the summer, winter, or other seasons. The difference, however, is the intensity of solar radiation. Summer periods are known for the increased solar intensity, which means increased effect of UV rays and heat on the roof.
Continuous exposure to extreme UV rays can significantly damage your roof by compromising the roofing material. Compromised roofing materials may begin to show signs of chronic aging in the form of cracking, loose shingles, and others.
Extreme heat breaks down roofing materials
Many property owners love the aesthetic appeal of dark-colored roofs. Dark-colored roofs add to the appearance and curb appeal of their property; however, this may be a disadvantage in the face of extreme heat. Dark-colored materials are known to absorb heat, and for roofing materials, extreme heat absorption may cause fading. The chemical process behind fading is physically evident when the roofing material begins to disintegrate.
While dark-colored roofing materials are not bad, you can improve their lifespan and minimize fading with proper ventilation. Speak to your roofing contractor on the subject for more information.
Thermal shock affects the roof’s structural integrity
The temperatures during the summer months in Dallas can be unbearable. While you as a human are shielded from the direct effect of the sun, your roof has no other option than to take it all in. The effect of the continuous solar radiation can cause thermal shock, weakening your roofing material. A weakened roof poses a structural problem to the building, thus compromising the safety and protection of the building’s inhabitants.
On the other hand, extreme heat and coolness can cause extreme expansion and contraction of roofing materials. The recurrent expansion and contraction can cause the material to buck or can cause the nails to pop out of their sockets – when not properly installed. The expansion and contraction due to temperature changes can also cause cracks which present an avenue for leaks and water damages.
Warm and wet climate encourages mold and moss growth
When the air is humid, mold and moss may begin to grow on your roof, which puts you at a major disadvantage. These organisms feed on the strength of your roofing material and can badly damage your roof when left unattended. It is best to address mold and moss problems quickly by calling on a roofing company or hiring roof cleaners to eliminate the growth.
Direct sunlight fades roof color
Your roof’s color adds to your building’s aesthetic appeal. Constant exposure to extreme heat and sunlight can affect your roof’s color causing it to fade. Fading doesn’t end at the color bleach but also affects the quality of the roofing material.
How to protect your roof against Dallas heat
Having understood the many effects of Dallas heat on your roof and roofing material, you also need to know the steps to take to minimize the effect. Being able to minimize the effect of heat on your roof prolongs its lifespan and saves you more money on repairs and roof replacement. Below are some recommended steps to take.
Block direct sun rays
The effect of the sun and UV rays on your roof cannot be overstated. Direct sunlight affects the color and quality of your roofing material. The heat generated through direct sunlight also causes expansion and contraction of your roofing materials. Shading your roof from direct sunlight can protect it from these harmful effects. Shading can be done naturally with help from tall trees in the surrounding areas. However, if there aren’t any trees, you may decide to invest in solar panels to generate electricity and reduce the direct impact of the sun on your roof.
Add insulation
Insulation is often associated with winter when the temperature is extremely cold. However, it can also play a role during the summer months. Adding insulation to your roof can help block the heat and warmth from penetrating your indoor space.
Choose light-colored roofing materials
Most roofing materials are available in different colors. For a Dallas resident looking to minimize the effect of sun and heat, light-colored roofing materials are recommended. Lighter shades are known to reflect heat, reducing the chances of fading and minimizing heat-related expansions and contractions.
Proper roof ventilation
Roof ventilation is an important part of reducing heat-related damages. Speak to your roofer on the best ways to add ventilation to your roof to reduce heat storage and increase air circulation.
Keeping your roof in good shape will save you money in the short and long run. If you are looking for a roofer to discuss heat-related roof damages with, visit https://dallasftworthroofer.com/dallas-roofing/.
James Kate Construction: Roofing, Painting & Windows
2364 N U.S. 287 Frontage Road Suite 113 Mansfield TX 76063
9724004707
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