Weather plays an extremely crucial role in the lifespan and stability of your roof, and in eastern NC, we experience the full four seasons. The winters are extremely cold and the summers are extremely hot, so our roofs experience a wide variety of temperatures and sunlight. So, how exactly does NC summer weather affect your roof? We cover all the ways your roof may be affected this summer, as well as how to protect it from the elements – keep reading to find out more!
Heat and UV
Eastern North Carolina summers are no joke – we occasionally see temperatures upwards of 100, and UV indexes of 8 – 11. In these circumstances, skin can burn within 20 minutes without the proper protection, so imagine the damage that your roof may experience! Roofs made of asphalt shingles are extremely susceptible to damage in the summer, as strong UV rays can cause the shingles to break down and become weak. Most roofs are dark in color and can reach temperatures of up to 170 degrees on an extremely hot day. Heat like this can cause the roof materials to expand and contract, which can lead to unstable spots over time. Eventually, the color of your roof may fade and the roof itself can become brittle.
Severe Storms
NC summers are also famous for random and severe thunderstorms, and even the occasional hurricane. With these types of weather systems can come high winds and heavy rain, which can lead to serious damage to your home. If your roof is not properly maintained, it may not properly drain water which can result in pooling water and potential leaks. Plus, severe winds can lift or remove any loose shingles, making it easy for water to seep in. Or, if the wind is strong, it can even carry debris up to your roof, which can puncture or scrape your roof. When left unsolved, small damage can lead to expensive repairs down the road.
Moisture and Humidity
When rain and heat mix, you get high levels of moisture and humidity. This creates the perfect condition for mold, mildew, algae, and moss to gather and grow on your roof. These growths do not only make your roof look dirty, but they also compromise the structural integrity of your roof. If your roof has these organisms growing on it, there is risk of weakened structure, which means your roof is no longer safe and protecting your home. There is also potential for mold and mildew to enter your home, which can lead to dangerous health risks. The more it grows and spreads, the harder it is to get rid of.
Preventative Maintenance
So, how can you protect your roof from weather damage, especially in the summer? The best way to keep your roof and home safe is by hiring a trustworthy and dependable roofing contractor for regular inspections and preventative maintenance. When damage is caught early on, it can be fixed before it worsens. Plus, minimal damage is usually less expensive to repair than significant roof problems. The same way you get your car inspected and taken care of each year, you should also do for your roof. A trusted roofing contractor like Assurance Roofing Company uses the best roofing tools and technologies, along with up-to-date techniques to ensure your roof will last for years to come. Be sure to have your roof checked before any summer storms to make sure it can withstand the upcoming wind, rain, and heat! Assurance Roofing is proud to provide reliable roofing repairs, maintenance, and replacements in eastern NC – we can even assist you with storm damage and insurance claims! Schedule a roofing service with Assurance Roofing Company today – 252-933-2604.
