Five Ways Bad Weather Can Damage Your Roof
6/30/2020
Storms of any kind, continuous rainfall, snow and even hot summer temps can wreak havoc on your roofing system. That’s why it’s important to inspect your roof and the area around your home after any bad weather. It’s also wise to make sure your roof is in the very best shape possible and ready for whatever weather lies ahead.
Below, we discuss five ways bad weather can cause damage to roofing systems, and what can be done to if you find yourself with a damaged roof.
1. Leaks and missing shingles
If you’ve got a leaking roof or you’re missing shingles, rain could be the culprit. Downpours, heavy storms, or constant rainfall can cause serious problems for your roof. Over time, rain can lead to missing tiles that allow rainwater to get into your home. That’s why it’s critical to inspect the ground around your house for any fallen tiles or shingles after a storm and to get regular maintenance checks, especially after rain-heavy seasons like spring.
2. Cracks and holes in the roof
Every year, hail causes millions of dollars of destruction to buildings, and it often hits roofs the hardest. After a hailstorm, your roof can be left with cracks and holes that will need to be repaired by a professional. Otherwise, it can result in leaks. Cracks and holes in the roof can also compromise your roof’s foundation and support once the holes start to expand.
3. Cave-ins
That’s right, inclement weather can cause your roof to literally cave-in if it’s covered by a heavy blanket of snow and ice. While that’s an extreme situation, of course, you simply cannot underestimate the damage snow can do to your roof. Snow, as it piles on, can become extremely heavy once it freezes. If your roof is already compromised it can buckle under the snow’s weight and collapse. Additionally, icicles that form on the edges of roofs and gutters can be dangerous and should be removed immediately.
4. Wind damage
If you’ve ever woken up after a night of heavy winds to see tree branches, leaves and even unsecured outdoor furniture strewn about, you’ve seen how powerful wind can be. Not only can wind loosen shingles and tiles but it can cause damage when tree branches fall on your roof and leaves clog your gutters. In very serious cases, wind damage to roofs can be extensive and severe.
5. Extreme heat
Very warm temperatures can cause serious damage to roofs, especially the longer the temps stay high and the more your roof is exposed to direct sunlight. Not only can extreme temperatures warp roofing materials, but long exposure to sun can cause components of your roof to break down quicker. Extreme temps can also cause warmer indoor temperatures which can, in turn, lead to higher energy bills.
Protect your home and family
If your roof falls victim to bad weather, give us a call. We can make the necessary repairs and give you peace of mind so the next time lighting strikes, you’ll feel confident knowing your roof is in top shape and ready to weather the storm.