Although roofs are designed to last a couple of decades or longer, they still take damage and require regular maintenance. The changing seasons, as well as the weather and temperature swings that come with them, are particularly hard on commercial and residential roofing. By understanding how the different seasons affect your roof, you can take preventive measures to avoid costly repairs later on.

Spring

Springtime in Alaska begins in late March as temperatures start to rise, melting the snow and ice that has blanketed your roof all winter long. However, temperatures might reach as high as 40 degrees or as low as minus 20, so the snow and ice melt and refreeze repeatedly. This can result in significant damage to your roof and gutters, as they must contend with the constant expansion and contraction. Your gutters might sag, or your shingles might lift, leaving you at risk for leaks, so you should have a contractor inspect the roof if you notice either of these signs.

Summer

Alaskan summers also experience wide temperature swings, ranging from as low as 40 degrees to as high as 80 or more. The sun stays in the sky for almost 20 hours or longer, beating down on commercial and residential roofing all day and night. The sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause shingles to split, crack, break, and fade. When a summer rainstorm rolls through, a roof that’s already in rough shape after spring is at an even greater risk of leaking, so you should hire a professional to keep it well-maintained.

Fall

The weather starts to cool off in August and the days shorten. Leaves drop off the trees quickly, which can clog gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters inhibit rainwater from draining away from your roof and home properly. This can lead to leaks, mold growth, rusted gutters, and even foundation problems. Cleaning out your gutters regularly is an important component of roof maintenance.

Winter

With much of Alaska cloaked in darkness during the winter months, your roof gets a break from the sun. Unfortunately, it has to bear the heavy load of snow and freezing temperatures. A good way to prepare your roof for winter is to ensure you have sufficient attic insulation. This will keep the heat in your home from melting the snow on your roof and creating ice dams, which can cause leaks and gutter damage over time.

Spring is just around the corner in Anchorage, which makes it the perfect time to evaluate the condition of your commercial or residential roofing and gutters to ensure the melting snow and ice can drain properly. The professionals at American Roofing can check your roof and shingles for any damage, look for leaks and weak spots, and recommend any repairs so that it’s ready to withstand whatever weather the next season brings. Visit their website to learn more about the commercial and residential roofing services they offer, or call (907) 345-8700 today to request a free estimate.