How Heat Impacts Your Roof & Our Roof Maintenance Tips 

Your roof is your home’s biggest investment. However, there are many outdoor elements that can a toll on it over time. One of the major issues, especially here in Florida, is heat. To help you stay on top of roof maintenance and get a higher level of performance, here what’s to know about how heat impacts your roof. 

Why is Heat So Hard on Roofs? 

You know the Florida sun is hot. Yet, you probably don’t think much about how this impacts your roof and the maintenance it needs. Heat can be a problem for roofs, though, because it can cause damage to both the roof and the wood structure underneath it.  

In fact, high temperatures can impact the roof rafters, joists, and support beams, making them stretch, expand, and crack, as a result. Likewise, heat can cause the roof shingles to expand, and then curl and shrink, making your roof more vulnerable to a host of issues, including leaks and mildew.  

Heat on your roof can also make your AC unit work a lot harder, which means it will have a shorter lifespan. Your energy bills could be higher too depending on the materials your roof is made from. For instance, a copper roof reflects the sunlight, while a dark-colored, shingled roof will absorb the heat. 

Not only does the sunlight and heat itself harm your roof over time, but so too does humidity. Moisture can even get trapped inside the roof structure, making its way to your attic and crawl space. Over time, this condensation can build up, which can trigger the growth of mold and mildew in your roof rafters and joists. This can even cause the wood in your roof structure to begin to rot. 

Protect Your Roof from Heat with the Right Maintenance  

There are ways you can get more life from your roof. These steps work to protect it from heat and humidity: 

• Dehumidifiers – Place dehumidifiers in your attic. These will work to dry up excess moisture that can cause mold, mildew, and rot. Less moisture will also lead to cooler air.  
• Ventilation – Without proper ventilation, there won’t be enough air circulation, leading to more condensation. Have your roof inspected to ensure it was built with the right amount of ventilation based on your home’s design and the Florida climate.  
• Preventative roof maintenance – If there’s been a major weather event, have your roof checked by an expert. Most offer free inspections and quotes, so you can find problems before they spread and cause expensive damage.  

Let Us Maintain Your Roof & Maximize Its Lifespan! 

At Istueta Roofing, we can help you get the most from your roof with regular maintenance. We can fix small problems, so they don’t escalate into big, expensive ones, saving you money in the process. We work on all kinds of roofs, from clay tiles and metal roofing to asphalt shingles and more.  

When you hire our team to inspect and maintain your roof, you’ll also have peace of mind knowing your roof is in good condition, protecting your home and its value. Call us today to learn more about our roof maintenance services!