Summers
in Ohio means plenty of time spent in the sun, backyard barbecues, and maybe
even trips to one of our many nearby lakes. But as it turns out, the cloud-free
days and climbing temperatures can negatively impact your home's roof and/or
siding. And in addition to increased wear and tear, a summertime storm can
seriously damage your home's exterior.
Of course,
there's not much you can do to control the weather. However, you can
be aware of the potentially harmful
effects of summer on a roof or siding. Then, you'll be far better prepared to
watch for signs of siding/roof damage and be ready to take quick action to
remedy any possible problems.
Here
are some seasonal summer factors that can damage your siding, roof, and other
parts of your home's exterior.
Summer storms
Heavy
rain, wind, and hail are the most prominent risk to your roof and siding. Here
in Ohio, we're very familiar with the storms that can quickly roll in during
the summer months. Even a brief storm can be a threat to your home's exterior.
High
winds can easily rip shingles off a roof or loosen tiles or flashing. Depending
on the size, hail has the potential to punch holes directly through vinyl
siding. And during a severe storm, falling trees or airborne debris can come
into contact with your home and damage the roof, siding, and more.
UV rays
You
probably know that the sun's UV rays can damage and burn your skin - and the
same goes for your roof and siding. Even on cloudy days, your home is exposed
to UV rays, and the long days of summer mean that the hours in the sun quickly
add up.
The
sun's rays can dry out the oils in roofing materials, leading to blacking,
weakening, and cracking. At first, it might seem like merely an aesthetic
issue. However, the shingles can buckle and even completely split if left
untreated.
For
siding, UV rays can have a similar effect. Depending on the type and quality of
your siding, you might notice that the color fades considerably after a long
summer. And at the right angle, the sun reflected off a window can degrade or
melt portions of vinyl siding. Peeling and cracking are also potential problems
with various types of siding.
High temperatures
Considering
that your roof bears the brunt of the summer sun and heat, it's not surprising
to learn that warm temperatures can lead to considerable wear and tear. On an
unshaded roof, temperatures can easily reach 90-plus degrees. Certain roofing
materials, such as asphalt can begin to melt at high temperatures. Also, the
heat can exacerbate siding and roof damage from UV rays.
Thermal shock
Most
of us welcome the quickly cooling temperatures that arrive just after sundown.
After all, it's a welcome relief from the day's heat. But did you know that
this can also be a source of damage to your roof and siding?
The
quick shift from hot to cooler temperatures can result in thermal shock.
Thermal shock causes rapid expansion and contraction of roofing and siding
materials, which can quickly weaken the overall structural integrity. In
addition, these constant changes in temperature can significantly age the
materials, shortening your exterior's lifespan. You might notice thermal shock
manifesting as warped or buckled vinyl siding or unexpected damage to your
shingles.
How to Maintain Your Roof and Siding During Summer
Ultimately,
every season comes with unique factors that can affect the exterior of your
home. And although you can't completely avoid these forces of nature, you can
do everything possible to care for and maintain your roof and siding properly.
Final
Touch Construction and Remodeling is the first place that many homeowners call
for Ohio roof inspections and siding replacement. Whether you want a quick
inspection to put your mind at ease or know it's time for a complete roof or
siding replacement, the Final Touch team is ready to help.
For more
information about exterior inspections or to request a free estimate, contact
Final Touch Construction and Remodeling today.
