If you're a homeowner, you know that your roof is one of the essential parts of your house. It protects you from the elements and keeps your family safe and dry. While your roof is busy protecting you from the conditions outside, have you thought about the weather conditions that cause the most damage to your roof? In this blog post, we'll explore how wind, rain, cold, heat, and hail can wreak havoc on your roof—and what you can do to prevent it.
Weather Conditions That Cause Damage To Your Roof
Wind
Did you know that wind is the leading cause of roof damage? High winds can loosen or break shingles, allowing water to seep in and causing further damage. In fact, according to the National Weather Service, wind damage is responsible for more than half of all insurance claims each year. So if you live in an area that's prone to high winds, it's important to have your roof checked regularly by a certified professional.
Rain
While rain might not seem like a big deal, it can cause a lot of damage to your roof. Constant exposure to moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can weaken your roof and make it more susceptible to leaks. Also, when rainwater gets under your shingles, it can cause them to blister or curl—which ultimately leads to leaks. To avoid rain damage, ensure your gutters are cleaned out regularly and properly draining away from your home.
Cold
When the temperature dips, your roof is at risk of an "ice dam." When water freezes, it expands. So when water gets into your roof and freezes, it can cause the expansion of ice dams, which puts pressure on your gutters and eventually leads to them pulling away from your home. To prevent cold weather damage, ensure your attic is properly insulated so that heat doesn't escape and cause ice dams to form. You should also clear any snow and ice off your gutters, so they don't get overloaded and pull away from your home.
Heat
Just like extreme cold can cause ice dams, excessive heat can cause shingles to curl up and sealant around joints to melt. This makes water getting into your home more accessible, leading to severe structural damage. To prevent heat damage, have a professional inspect your air conditioning unit regularly to operate at peak efficiency. It would help if you also ensured proper ventilation in your attic so that heat doesn't build up and cause damage to your shingles.
Hail Damage
Hailstones can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter, and when they fall on your roof at high speeds, they can cause serious damage. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent hail damage—other than living in an area where hail is not common—you can minimize the risk by having a professional inspect your roof regularly for any damaged or missing shingles. You should also have insurance coverage in case hail damages occur.
While you might not be able to control the weather, there are steps you can take to prevent weather-related damage to your roof. If your roof has been damaged and requires replacement or repair, give our professionals at Rooftop Designs a call! (855) 741-0575
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