Between sweltering summer temperatures and the occasional thunderstorm, your roof endures a lot during the warmer months. While we often think about cranking the AC and staying cool indoors, your roof is taking the full hit of heat and UV exposure day after day. Unfortunately, summer heat doesn’t just fade your shingles, it can quietly damage your roof and cost you big if you’re not paying attention.
At Top Tier Roofing, we help homeowners through the Delaware Valley prepare their roofs for every season. Here’s how summer heat can affect your roof and what you can do to prevent long-term damage.
Extreme Temperatures Break Down Roofing Material
The higher the summer temperatures, the more stress your roof endures. Even on a seemingly average 90-degree day, rooftop temperatures can soar to over 160 degrees. This extreme heat accelerates the breakdown of essential oils in shingles and rubber roofing materials, making them brittle and less effective at repelling water. Over time, this compromises your roof’s ability to protect your home from the elements.
Thermal Shock Weakens Structural Integrity
In Philly, summer days are hot but nights can still cool down significantly. This daily cycle of expansion during the day and contraction at night is called thermal shock. While it may sound harmless, this constant fluctuation can slowly damage your roofing system. Cracks, splits, and weakened structural materials become more likely, which could lead to more serious issues like roof leaks or even structural failure if left unchecked.
Mold and Moss Love Humid Heat
Philadelphia summers bring not only heat but humidity and that’s a recipe for mold and moss growth. When moisture seeps beneath shingles and into the underlayment, it creates the perfect environment for mold to take hold. This doesn’t just affect your roof’s durability it can pose real health risks to you and your family. Moss and mold will slowly erode the materials protecting your home, increasing the need for costly repairs or even early replacement.
UV Exposure Fades and Weakens Your Roof
UV rays beat down on your roof all day long, even when the sky is cloudy. Over time, this constant exposure causes shingles to fade, crack, and deteriorate. If you’ve noticed your roof looks discolored or worn, UV damage may already be at play. Beyond hurting your curb appeal, a weakened roof becomes less energy-efficient and less capable of reflecting sunlight making your home even hotter.
Protecting Your Roof from Summer Heat
At Top Tier Roofing, we recommend several key strategies to defend your roof from summer damage:
- Ensure your attic and roof have proper ventilation
- Add insulation to maintain stable temperatures inside your home
- Consider reflective materials or UV-blocking coatings
- Opt for lighter-colored roofing materials
- Keep up with regular roof inspections and maintenance
Don’t Let the Summer Heat Take a Toll on Your Home
Summer can be tough on your home, and your roof takes the brunt of it—scorching sun, sudden downpours, and high humidity can all take their toll. That’s why now is the perfect time to give your roof the attention it deserves. Whether it’s a routine inspection, essential repairs, or a complete upgrade, proactive maintenance can make all the difference. Reach out to Top Tier Roofing today and stay cool, safe, and protected all summer long.