August 15, 2025 in Roofing, Tips
The Effects of Summer Heat: Signs of Roof Damage
Our relationship with the summer sun is a complicated one. On the one hand, we love going to the beach on a warm day, seeing our plants get vital nutrients, and throwing pool parties. On the other hand, though, the sun can be the cause of discomfort and damage. Think of the heatwaves we’ve had this year alone. People stayed inside at all costs, energy bills skyrocketed as a result of HVAC use, and more. One thing we don’t often think about when it comes to extreme summer heat is how it affects the outside of our homes…namely our rooftops. If you notice signs of roof damage caused by summer heat, it’s important to address it. But what are the signs? How hot does a roof get in the summer?
In this blog, we’re going to turn up the temperature a bit. Let’s take a look at the signs of roof damage you should be on the lookout for, as well as the various types of roof damage our sun can cause.
How Summer Heat Damages Roofs
You might wonder why (or even how) the sun causes damage. Aren’t roofs designed to withstand this kind of stuff? Yes and no. While roofing materials are designed to be as durable as possible, extreme heat can still take its toll. Add that to the general wear and tear that rooftops experience over the years, and there’s potential for real damage to happen.
Here are the various types of roof damage that can occur:
UV Ray Exposure
Our skin isn’t the only thing at risk when ultraviolet rays are allowed unimpeded access. These invisible rays can slowly break down the protective oils found in roofing materials. Take asphalt shingles, for instance. UV rays can cause their colors to fade and they could lose their flexibility. Over time, they can become brittle, making them easy to crack or outright break.
Thermal Expansion
Ever notice how some of your doors might fit in their frame a little too snugly when it’s hot outside? The same thing can happen to roofs. With temperatures climbing during the day and dropping at night, materials expand and contract, which contributes to eventual cracking, warping, or loosening.
Moisture Trapping
If you have trapped water in your roof structure, it’s already deteriorating, which can lead to various water-related issues. High heat exacerbates the issue by expediting that deterioration. The result? Rot, mold, and eventual structural weakening.
Signs of Roof Damage Caused by Heat
How hot does a roof get in the summer? Pretty darn hot! It is, after all, an effective first line of defense in the battle to keep a home cool. In the midst of summer (especially heatwaves), keep an eye out for these signs of roof damage:
- Curling or cracked shingles: These are clear signs of material fatigue and UV damage.
- Granule-loss on asphalt shingles: If shingles are losing their granules, it may be hard to tell by looking at them. Instead, check your gutters. If they have excessive amounts of granules, it means the protective coating on your shingles is losing its integrity.
- Warped or sagging areas: Long periods of stress caused by heat can cause warping, leading to structural damage if left unchecked.
- Discoloration and fading: This is a telltale sign of prolonged exposure to the sun.
- Damage to flashing or sealant: These components can become too dry when exposed to too much heat. They may even pull away from their seams.
Preventing Various Types of Roof Damage
There are three vital steps you can take to prevent roof damage:
- Schedule a professional inspection: Give your local roofing contractor (us, of course) a call. It can be really beneficial! We’re happy to inspect your roof and let you know what action needs to be taken.
- Optimize ventilation and insulation: If your attic is well-ventilated, heat buildup is kept to a minimum and your roof will live a long and happy life.
- Trim overhanging branches: There are plenty of risks to ignoring branches that overhang your roof. One of these risks is debris accumulation, as it can create areas of heat retention.
Know the Signs of Roof Damage
Your roof is a vital component of your home’s structural integrity, as well as a major contributor to your indoor comfort. Don’t let the summer sun cause damage that will break your wallet and shorten your roof’s lifespan. Use the tips we’ve given you here to identify signs of damage and respond accordingly. At PJ’s Roofing, we’re happy to perform any inspections or repairs you need. Get in touch and let’s chat!