Outdoor temperatures in Tennessee can exceed 100 degrees during the hottest months. High heat can cause damage to your shingle roof in different ways. So, how do you prevent problems?
Signs of Heat Damage on Asphalt Shingles
If you’ve been keeping up with roof inspections and scheduled maintenance, you may notice one or more of the following signs, all of which indicated damage caused by exposure to extreme heat:
Cracking – Heat can cause asphalt shingles to become dry and brittle, which make them more prone to cracking. The cracks can let rainwater infiltrate the underside of the shingles during rainfall.
Shrinking – Asphalt shingles shrink from prolonged exposure to heat. When this happens, the roofing nails get pulled by the singles, ultimately popping out and resulting in entire pieces falling off the roof.
Damage to flashing – As the shingles shrink and shift on the rooftop, other components like flashing may also get dislodged or damaged. While metal flashing are more resistant to this kind of damage, plastic flashing and rubber boots are more likely to get damaged by heat.
How Roofers Help Prevent Heat Damage
Fortunately, knowledgeable roofing contractors can help prevent heat damage through preventive measures:
Proper installation – Proper installation can help prevent most types of heat damage. Roofing manufacturers have specific installation methods, including proper nail spacing, that help prevent some of the damage described above.
“Cool roofing” shingles – Cool roofs feature a light-colored or reflective outer surface. While primarily intended to reduce indoor cooling requirements and save on energy bills, its reflective properties also help reduce heat damage.
Proper ventilation – Roof ventilation is intended to prevent damage caused by trapped heat and moisture in the attic. It can also help regulate roof temperature and reduce heat damage. Passive ventilation through ridge and soffit vents works for most roofs, though it can be augmented by exhaust fans installed on the rooftop.
Ritco Group, Inc. is one of the leading local roofing companies serving customers in Columbia, Franklin and Brentwood, TN. Give us a call at (931) 381-0175. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.