People who are replacing their roof tend to focus on attributes such as durability, longevity, and curb appeal. Many homeowners overlook the fact that shingles can withstand direct sunlight for years. While hail and rain can damage roofs, these weather events do not occur every day. The sun is always there, so your roof’s ability to resist heat and UV rays is important.
What Can Sun Damage Do to Your Roof?
Damage to your roof can be caused by UV radiation or excessive heat. UV radiation is often associated with skin cancer, wrinkles, and premature aging. However, it can also damage your roof.
Bleaching
The color of your roof can fade if exposed to UV light for a long time. The darker the color of your roof, the more likely it is to bleach. While bleaching is only a cosmetic issue and does not cause structural damage to the roof, it has a significant impact on your home’s aesthetic. The bleaching process is irreversible. Sun-bleached shingles can only be repaired by replacing them. Your roof may need to be replaced if it is noticeably faded.
Coating Damage
The coating on your roof is a more serious issue when it comes to UV radiation. Every roof needs a protective coating. It protects your roof against weather-related damage, such as those caused by heavy rain or hail. UV radiation can dry out your roof coating and cause it to crack or even rupture. Roof material that cracks and peels expose the underlying layers of material to the elements. This can cause damage to accelerate and lead to roof leaks.
Thermal Shock
The heat from the sun and the drop in temperature during the night cause a continuous cycle of expansion and contraction. After years of weather fluctuations, shingles can develop jagged cracks. Water seeping through cracks can cause your roof to develop leaks or moss.
Metal roofs can also be significantly weakened by decades of thermal shock. The expansion and contraction are not drastic but it is enough to cause the metal panels to move. Over time, this can lead to leaks.
Roof Damage: How to Recognize It
Working with a roofing contractor in Greenville SC who is experienced will help you to fix the problem before it becomes more costly and serious. If you see any of the following, your roof might need to be repaired or replaced.
- Shingles that are cracked or curled
- Missing shingles
- You may have dark spots or discoloration in your ceiling or walls.
- Water leaks that are obvious
- Attic mold and decaying materials
- Clogged gutters
- Insect infestations
What You Can Do to Protect Your Roof From Sun Damage
You cannot stop the sun from shining on your house. You can maintain your roof by taking these proactive steps:
- Regularly inspect your roof – an experienced roof specialist can detect any potentially serious issues before they cause irreversible roof damage.
- Invest in high-quality and durable roofing materials
- Protective coatings are recommended for roof types and roofing materials.
Need to replace or repair your damaged roof? Call KM Roof and Home Repair now.
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KM Roof and Home Repair
310 Iveydale Dr.
Greenville, SC 29609
864-535-9184
www.kmroofers.com
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