Every year as spring ends and summer rolls in, homeowners in Columbus, NC prepare for the high heat and humidity. Generally speaking, most people focus on ensuring that their air conditioners operate well. Or they water their lawn and tend their garden. Another important area of focus during the summer is your roof. With the intense southern sun beating down on your home, roofs can suffer weather damage. Plus, hailstorms are notorious in the area. It’s crucial to do more to protect your roof.
At Ricardo's Alpha Roofing, we want to help you understand how susceptible your roof is and how you can protect it. Many homeowners look up one day to see an old roof with missing and cracked shingles. They may be experiencing leaks or fascia damage. They wonder, “When did this happen?” It was actually happening over the course of many summers. Here’s some helpful information to keep in mind.
The Impact of Intense UV Rays on Asphalt Shingles
Throughout this region, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material. They’re cost-effective, durable, and good looking. However, they’re also susceptible to UV degradation. Over time, the sun beating down on these shingles breaks down the chemical compounds in the asphalt. This leads shingles to lose their flexibility and become brittle. They’re more likely to lose granules and crack and split in high winds.
Once those granules wear away, the elements expose the underlying mat directly. Bald shingles age much faster. They no longer shed water effectively, and this can lead to rot and leaks in the roof. Check out your roof before summer hits, and look for things like:
- Curling edges
- Cracked surfaces
- Granule loss in gutters
- Dark patches
- Bald shingles
- Missing shingles
- Color changes
Thermal Shock and Material Expansion
Temperature swings in the region can also negatively affect your roof. Scorching afternoons followed by evening thunderstorms can introduce thermal shock. The drop from over 100°F to around 70°F is a huge swing for your roof. Materials can only expand and contract so often before failing. Ongoing thermal shock weakens shingles and breaks the seal between them. They can pull away from the roof deck.
Metal roofs and TPO systems also experience expansion. They hold up a bit better than shingles, but you can still experience issues. Fasteners can pull loose and seams can open up if you do not properly maintain the roof. No matter your roof type, spring is the right season for an inspection. We can look at your roof and assess the extent of the damage.
Comparing UV Resistance Across Roofing Materials
Some materials protect better against the sun than others. Asphalt shingles rely on their granules to literally block UV rays. Other materials work by reflecting heat away. The differences here are important to know if you’re planning a roof installation.
You may want a roof that stands up better to the sun over time. Metal roofing, for instance, is popular for its reflective properties. Whether on a residential home or commercial property, this roofing type offers premium protection. There are also fewer components to worry about on the roof.
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is another strong choice to help resist the elements. This roofing type is a single-ply membrane. Property owners often use it on flat or low-slope roofs. It is naturally UV resistant and is available mainly in light gray or white to reflect sunlight. It’s also an energy-efficient option. The material reflects heat instead of absorbing it, so the property doesn’t heat up from direct sun exposure.
Identifying Early Signs of Solar Wear
It’s easier to address minor solar wear in the spring than to deal with a major leak in the middle of a summer storm. This is why an inspection is very important. This is something you can do on your own. Either from the ground or a ladder, look for roof damage. Check for cupping, uplift, and other issues with your shingles. For a professional inspection, you can give Ricardo's Alpha Roofing a call. We can perform a thorough assessment of your entire roofing system, including fascia, your guttering, eaves, and more.
As the leading roofing contractor in Columbus, we’re dedicated to keeping your roof safe and sturdy. From our roof inspection services to repairs and full replacements, we offer a lot of roofing options. Over the years, we have accumulated many awards for quality service in the area. We show up promptly to offer repair services after storms. Our team can even help you with your insurance claims. We’re a name you can trust for high-quality roofing services.
Contact Ricardo's Alpha Roofing today for more information about services for your Columbus roof.
