Does Florida Heat Affect Your Roof?

Living in Florida has many benefits, and some challenges as well. While those of us who choose to call Sarasota and Venice home love all the sunshine, it can wreak havoc on our homes and landscaping.

Our roofs take the brunt of the UV rays and heat of year-round sun.  They also represent one of the largest investments we make when it comes to home maintenance. Therefore, asking about how the Florida heat affects our roofing materials is a prudent question.

How Florida Heat Affects Your Roof

Roofing materials which are common in this area are made to withstand the climate. However, the sun will eventually take a toll on materials if you do not perform proper maintenance and keep an eye on how the materials are holding up.

Asphalt shingle tiles can dry out and get damaged under scorching sun. The tiles can crack, break or even curl up around the edges if the sealant dries out. Homeowners should periodically check for any signs of deterioration, and replace any damaged shingles as soon as possible. If shingles begin to erode, they can allow water to seep in, which can cause leaks. When shingles get dried out, they may also lose granules which can cause further damage.

Asphalt shingles can have a UV coating applied which will help them to withstand the sun’s rays and last longer. There are additional sealants which will also help to keep the roof cooler, so be sure to ask your Venice roofing contractor for any advice as to the best shingle treatment for your roof.

Clay tile roofs also can get dried out by the sun, but it is far less likely. Most people are more concerned about keeping their roof cool by utilizing a lighter color tile, or perhaps applying a UV coating to keep the color from fading. Some studies have shown that a lighter color roof may keep your home cooler, which is a great reason to consider changing your roof color when it is time for a new roof installation.

Metal roofing is becoming a more popular choice in the Venice area, especially at the beach. Metal roofs are not known to sustain any damage from the heat, and are actually highly reflective – keeping your home cooler and more energy efficient. Therefore a metal roof is one which is unlikely to ever give you a problem as far as sunlight, and may actually work in your favor.

Ventilation Matters

Perhaps more important than roofing materials when it comes to the sun, is how you manage the ventilation in your attic space. It is important to have adequate air flow throughout the space under the roof in order to keep the temperature under control. Regardless of roofing material, air vents are an important aspect of any roof which you choose. Having proper ventilation helps to extend and preserve the life of your roof and achieve energy efficiency.

You will also want to be sure that the weather has not affected your gutters and eaves, as these will both affect the life of your roof. If you have any questions about the right roof for you, call the experts at Kingdom Roofing. Whether you need a new roof or require roof maintenance, we are here to make recommendations and help you make your best decision for your home in the Florida heat.