Your roof takes the brunt of the harsh weather as it passes through the area, especially when an Iowa snowstorm rolls through or we get a mid-summer rain storm. As sturdy as your home is, constant exposure to the elements can lead to wear and tear. Let’s take a look at why this is.
Sun and Heat Exposure
Even though roofs are designed to maintain their structural integrity when exposed to the sun, high temperatures can shorten their lifespan. In seasons like summer, daytime temperatures can reach into the 90’s and then drastically cool down when the sun sets. These rapid changes cause the roof to expand and contract, a phenomenon known as thermal shock. Thermal shock creates tension on the roofing materials, leading to cracks, curling, and eventually leaks.
UV rays from the sun can also break the chemical bonds in your roofing materials. You’ll notice the roof’s color fading, and if you have a metal roof, you will start seeing rust formation.
Rain and Moisture
The first line of defense on your roofing system is the shingles, which means they take on the impact of heavy rain. Repeated exposure can weaken them, causing deterioration that eventually allows water to seep through. If you have a structure with a flat roof, rainwater can collect on top, applying pressure that can weaken the surface. After some time, the roof can sag and even partially collapse.
Also, gutters and drainage systems will bear the brunt of heavy rains. The excessive volume of water flowing down from the roof collects leaves, tree branches, and other debris and deposits them inside the gutters. As a result, the drainage system ends up clogged, leading to water overflowing and seeping into fascia, soffits, and walls.
Water seeping through the roof causes the wood to rot, warp, and decay. It also encourages mold growth, which can significantly impact your indoor air quality and health.
High Winds
High winds can peel back and tear off roof shingles completely. Once the shingles are out of the way, the wind damages the underlayment and the roof deck.
Snow and Ice
Snow and ice accumulation during winter can put excess weight on the roof, leading to structural stress. Ice dams can also form along the edges, preventing snow from draining properly. Ice and snow will then start to melt on the roof, causing water to back up under shingles.
Moreover, the cold temperatures of snow and ice can make the roofing materials brittle and prone to cracking. Water backed up under shingles due to ice dam formation can freeze and expand, worsening the deck’s structural damage.
Protecting Your Roof From Extreme Weather
While you can’t control the weather, there’s a lot you can do to protect your roof from damage.
1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Wear protective gloves and periodically scoop out leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters. You can also use a leaf blower to clear out accumulated debris.
Next, insert a garden hose into the top of the downspout and turn on the water, starting at low pressure and gradually increasing until the clog breaks up. You can also take apart the downspout at the seams and elbows to effectively remove clogs.
2. Trim Overhanging Branches
Consider hiring a qualified roofer or certified arborist to cut down branches hanging over your roof. A wrong cut can cause the branches to fall on the roof, creating more damage.
3. Schedule Professional Inspection
Hire a professional to thoroughly examine your roof. An inspection covers all components of your roofing system and allows them to make the necessary repairs to damaged parts. They have experience and skills to quickly identify irregular areas and special tools to fix all the issues found.
A professional can also go over your attic insulation and ventilation. Adequate ventilation and insulation can prevent ice dam formation and heat transfer to your deck and other internal components of your roof. You’ll also benefit from reduced energy costs and improved indoor quality.
4. Invest in Weather Resistant Roofing Materials
If you prefer asphalt shingles, consider looking for ones reinforced with fiberglass or organic materials and coated with weather-resistant granules. They are resistant to UV rays and water and can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance.
Another option is metal roofing. Metal roofs are highly resistant to fire, wind, and hail and can be coated with a reflective surface to bounce off UV rays. In addition, they have a lifespan of over 50 years.
The best alternative is slate roofing material. They last over 100 years and are resistant to fire, rot, insects, wind, sun, and storms.
Contact Evenhouse Roofing for More Information
If you are looking for roofing repair, maintenance, or installation services in Davenport, IA, call Evenhouse Roofing today. Our team of experts offers tailored solutions that ensure your home’s safety and durability, including storm damage, gutter installation, siding replacement, and more. You can also contact us for skylight installation to add aesthetic value to your house.
Contact Evenhouse Roofing today to schedule an appointment.
