Harsh Weather and Roof Shingle Deterioration
Here in New England, we are quite aware that the roof over our heads is our home’s first line of defense against exposure to harsh conditions. We also realize that our rooftops are exposed to all types of extreme weather conditions, from scorching heat to heavy rains and Nor’easters. The unfortunate truth is that weather damage is inevitable. Whereas our rooftops are constantly exposed to the elements, it is only natural that they will wear over time.
However, here at AlmarLLC, we want to alert you that harsh weather is not the only culprit that contributes to roof shingle deterioration. Below are other contributing factors that New England homeowners should be aware:
- Heat and Sun – The sun is the most common roofing enemy. It blasts your roof with damaging rays and heat causing shingles to break down over time. Thermal expansion, IR radiation and UV light from the sun are to blame for the majority of issues related to sun exposure overtime.
- Rain and Ice – Moisture is roof’s number one enemy. Moisture can damage your roofs structure, causing mildew and rot. It can even seep into and damage your home’s insulation. While high gusts of wind combined with rain is behind most roof leaks, melting ice can re-freeze and form ice dams, which block proper drainage of water into the gutter. This will cause the water to back up into your roof materials, leading to serious structural damage.
- Hail – Hail can leave dents and dislodge tiny protective granules that typically protect your home from damaging UV-rays and improve the roof’s water-shedding capabilities. Loss of mineral granules on your shingles can lead to the asphalt coating and even fiberglass mat being directly exposed to the elements, resulting in dramatic loss the roof shingles life expectancy.
- Wind – High winds lift, curl, and pull shingles away from the roof, exposing its underpayment and leaving your roof vulnerable to water damage and significant structural deterioration. The corners, the edges of the roof, and the ridge line are especially susceptible to damage from high winds, but the entire roof structure often gets shredded and punctured by flying debris nonetheless.
- Overgrown Trees – Tree limbs that overhang over your roof will constantly drop debris onto your rooftop. Leaves that accumulate on your roof can clog your rain gutters and retain moisture. Some overhanging trees can even puncture your roof as limbs fall to your rooftop or are launched by high winds.
- Lichen – Moss and algae can cause wood rot and structural damage over time while also discoloring your roof. Lichen doesn’t trap as much water against the surface of the roof as moss, but it can be acidic and has strands that can penetrate into the shingles. Both cause significant damage.
If you have been considering a ROOF INSPECTION to test the effectiveness of your home’s first line of defense, please feel free to CONTACT US today, or complete the form below.