The summer will be here soon, and many people are looking forward to it. While there’s a lot to be excited about with this season, it can be rough on various types of roofing materials. Here are a few issues to look out for with your roof during the summer.

Summer Roof Issues to Watch For 

1. Sun Damage

Since summer has longer days, UV exposure increases over the season and cause the color to fade from asphalt shingles. The damage is more than aesthetic, though, as the rays can also pull moisture out and cause the material to warp.

Roofs can also undergo thermal shock, when the shingles cool off rapidly at night after being exposed to the sun all day. As this continues over time, it can weaken the structure.

The best way to check for UV damage is to inspect your roof regularly in the summer. If the structure is warping, the shingles will start to curl or bend upward.

You might also spot cracking due to the strain the UV rays put on the material. If a contractor needs to replace any shingles, ask them about solar reflective options or roof coatings to improve the structure’s life span.

2. Moss Growth 

Moss grows in a damp, humid climate, and is most common on the shaded sections of the roof, like those beneath trees. Birds and wind can also transport the spores, providing the initial base for moss to grow. Beyond just hurting the roof’s curb appeal, moss can trap water beneath it and allow it to soak into the roof’s material and rot it out.

To get rid of the moss growth, have a contractor rinse the roof with a cleaning solution and scrub the area. This should be done as soon as you notice the moss growth because the longer it’s attached, the harder it is to remove. 

To prevent the problem from coming back, trim the trees to remove the shade and keep debris off of the roof and gutters. If you’re getting a roof replacement, consider using copper-infused asphalt shingles to stop moss growth.

3. Storm Damage

Summer showers and high winds are threats to any roof, especially those that are older and already have minor damage. The wind can blow up loose shingles and potentially rip them off. 

Even if it doesn’t tear them free, it can lift them up long enough for water to gather underneath. It’s also not uncommon to see hail during severe thunderstorms; these can damage the shingles and leave pockmarks.

To protect your roof, check the trees around your home for any loose or decaying branches; these need to be taken care of to prevent them from falling and damaging the roof.

You should also keep your gutters cleaned, so the rain can drain properly. If you notice any missing shingles, have a roofing contractor replace them to prevent water damage

Need an expert to help with summer roof problems? Cincinnati Roofing in Ohio has more than a century of combined experience between their five generations of employees. This family of roofers is an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor and offers financing for roof repairs and replacements through Service Finance Company LLC. To get in touch, visit them online or call (513) 484-5363.