Summer brings sunshine and backyard barbecues, but it also brings a unique set of challenges for your home. Ignoring your roof maintenance routine during the summer time can cause your roof some damage. It’s important to continue a routine maintenance throughout summer to help identify damages that are common for roofs during the summertime.
Getting your roof prepared for the summer months doesn’t have to be difficult. You just need to know what to look for and how to handle minor issues before they turn into major leaks. Our guide will help walk you through exactly how summer weather affects roofing materials, the warning signs of damage, and steps you can take today. We have also included a quick quiz to help you score your current roof readiness.
How Summer Weather Affects Your Roof
People often associate roof damage with winter snow and ice dams. However, the warmers months are just as harsh to your roof.
Heat & UV Damage
Intense sunlight beats down on your home day after day. This prolonged exposure to UV rays dries out shingles. Over time, the materials can become brittle and crack. If your attic lacks proper ventilation, the trapped heat can bake your roofing materials.
Summer Storm Season
Warm weather often triggers sudden and violent thunderstorms. Heavy rain tests the limits of your drainage system. Hail can dent or shatter roofing materials, while high winds can lift up sections of your roof, leaving the underlayment exposed to water. Therefore leading to a leak or worse.
Debris Accumulation
Spring storms usually leave behind a trail of leaves, pine needles, and small branches. If this debris sits on your roof, it traps moisture against the surface. Constant moisture leads to rot and creates a perfect breeding ground for moss and algae.
Key Indicators Your Roof Needs Attention
- Visible Damage: cracked, curled, curled edges, missing shingles
- Granule Loss: granules protect the roof from sun exposure. If your granules start to fall off and leave bald spots, your roof is losing this UV protection layer.
- Gutter Issues: clogged gutters with leaves or sagging away from the house, water will back up and seep under your roof line.
- Interior Signs: Check ceilings and walls for any water stains. Increased energy bills could be a sign of ineffective roof ventilation.
The Interactive Roof Readiness Quiz
Let us see how well your home is prepared for the season. Answer the five questions below to calculate your score. Give yourself 10 points for every “A” and 0 points for every “B”.
When was the last time you cleaned your gutters?
A) Within the last 3 months.
B) I honestly can’t remember.
Explanation: clean gutters are essential for proper drainage. Clogged gutters lead to water backing up under your shingles.
How old is your roof?
A) Less than 15 years old
B) Over 15 years old, or I don’t know
Explanation: Most asphalt shingle roofs last between 15 and 20 years. If yours is older, it’s highly susceptible to summer storm damage.
Are there any large tree branches hanging directly over your house?
A) No, all nearby branches are trimmed back.
B) Yes, there are branches resting or hovering right above the roof.
Explanation: Overhanging branches can scrape away shingle granules in the wind. They also provide easy access for outside animals.
Have you noticed any curling, cracked, or missing shingles?
A) No, everything looks uniform and flat.
B) Yes, there are a few rough spots on the roof.
Explanation: Damaged shingles compromise your waterproofing. Even one missing shingle can let water into your attic.
When did you last have a professional roof inspection?
A) Within the last year or two.
B) Never
Explanation: Regular inspections prevent surprise leaks.
Your Score:
- 40 to 50 pts: Great job. Your roof is in prime shape for the summer season.
- 20 to 30 pts: You have some work to do. Schedule a weekend to handle basic maintenance before the heavy storms hit.
- 0 to 10 pts: It’s time to call a roofer. Your home is at a high risk for water damage.
Recommended Summer Roof Maintenance Steps
If your quiz score highlighted a few areas for improvement, don’t panic. Here are the most effective ways to protect your home this season.
- Cleaning Gutters & Downspouts
- Inspecting for Damage
- Trimming Trees
- Professional Inspection
Enjoy a Worry Free Summer
Your roof does the majority of the heavy lifting to keep your family safe and dry. Taking a few hours to clear out gutters, trim back trees, and inspect for damage will extend the lifespan of your shingles. Proactive care is always cheaper than emergency repairs.
If your quiz score revealed some blind spots, take action soon. Reach out to us to schedule and inspection. Once you know your home is secure, you can kick back, relax, and actually enjoy the warm weather.
