Spring is in the air, and before the summer heat hits and damages your roof, it’s time to prepare it to better withstand the summer. This season can be a time of intense heat, but it can also be rainy with the potential for several storms. Your roof is your main protection from the elements, so making sure it is ready for summer should be a priority for any homeowner, especially in the Greater Northwest part of the country. In this guide, we’ll discuss tips to help you prepare your roof for the summer.
Roof Maintenance
Unless your roof was recently damaged, the most important thing for you to do is to have your roof maintained at least once a year. Ideally, we suggest doing it twice a year, once in the spring to prepare for summer. The second time should be in the fall to prepare your roof for winter. Let’s take a look at some of the things that a professional roofer will take care of during routine maintenance.
Check for Leaks and Water Damage
Before deciding if your roof is ready for the summer heat, check for any existing leaks on your roof. One way to inspect for leaks is to inspect the interior of your home for water damage. This will appear as dark spots on your ceiling, sagging drywall, or peeling paint. If there are signs of water damage, the roofer inspecting your roof will take the necessary steps to secure it, so the leak is no longer an issue.
Mold and mildew on the interior of your home or under the shingles on your roof could be another sign of a leak. If water can penetrate your roofing, addressing the issue before a big storm hits your neighborhood is a priority.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
When your gutters clog with leaves and debris, it’s difficult to ensure that water can flow freely through the gutters and downspouts to a safe location. When clogs occur, heavy rains can result in water overflow, which can damage your home’s siding, flood the basement, and slowly erode the foundation. If you do notice debris or small pebbles in the gutter, this could be a sign that your shingles are deteriorating.
Look for Damage on Shingles
Damage to your shingles is one of the first signs that you may need repairs. During an inspection, a member from our team will look for shingles with cracks or damage or those that are completely missing. Also, discolored shingles are a concern because the UV rays often cause fading after long-term exposure. This means the coating on top of the shingles could be ineffective, and you may need more extensive roof repairs to protect your home this summer.
Ensure You Attic Is Properly Ventilated
Moisture and heat can build up and accumulate in your roof. That said, having good attic ventilation in your home will help make your living space more comfortable. With good ventilation, you can also ensure that mildew and mold don’t have a place to grow. Attic fans and vents that let hot air out on the roof are ideal.
Examine Chimney and Flashing
The shingles are not the only aspect of a roof that can see damage during a storm. That said, the chimney is another vulnerable place that protrudes from the roof, so inspecting it is also essential. A roofer from our team will ensure that there are no leaks near the chimney since damaged flashing that surrounds it is often the cause of leaks.
Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
One way that you can be proactive when it comes to roof damage is to actively trim all of the low-hanging limbs and branches that could damage your roof during a storm. This is an essential step in preparing your roof, especially if tree branches have caused damage in the past. Additionally, a properly trimmed tree means that fewer leaves and debris will end up on your roof during a storm. Fruit trees can also discolor the roofing material on your home, which can make it deteriorate faster because the acids in the fruit remove the protective coating.
Consider Applying a Reflective Roof Coating
Applying a reflective coating to your existing roof creates a barrier that adds protection. With the added reflective layer, your roof will absorb less heat. This means that the roof reflects heat instead of absorbing it, so you can save money on energy bills because your cooling system is more efficient. Reflective roofing plays a role in keeping your roof’s integrity intact. With this protective coating, you won’t need to repair your roof as frequently, which can add a few years to its life span.
- Silicone coating – Known for its durability and reflectivity, it offers seamless protection that is great for flat or low-slope roofs.
- Acrylic coating – This is a water-based coating that is durable, reflective, and environmentally friendly. A tinted coating is also an option to match the aesthetic of your home.
- Polyurethane coating – This coating combines impact resistance, durability, and UV protection.
- Elastomeric coating – This is a flexible option that is ideal in extreme temperatures and in areas where the weather changes frequently.
ShingleArmor
ShingleArmor is a new protective coating that we provide at Jimmy's Roofing. It is a clear adhesive coating that protects against UV rays. It is also a great layer of protection against snow, ice, rain, and wind. The UV-protective layer is ideal for homes in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, and with proper care, you can easily extend your roof’s life span by approximately five years. If you’re interested in installing this protective coating on your roof, contact one of our roofing specialists at Jimmy's Roofing for more information.
Best Roof Coating Colors
When considering a coating for your roof, several options are available. Black, gray, and silver are traditional dark options that work well for most roofing. If you’re looking for a material that is highly reflective for your roof, consider a white coating. When you consider this color of coating, 80% to 90% of the UV rays from the sun can reflect off the surface of the roof. For the most efficient option to help save energy this summer, consider a reflective, white coating for your roof.
Schedule a Roof Inspection Today
Regardless of the type of roofing material you have on your home, it’s essential to schedule routine maintenance to ensure you’re protected for the upcoming storm season. UV rays from the sun are intense during the summer, but applying a reflective roof coating can not only help protect your roof from unnecessary wear and tear, but it will also extend the life span of the material. It will also reflect a good amount of heat from the roof so that you can save money on your energy bill as well.
At Jimmy's Roofing, we have been one of the top roofing companies since 2001. Contact us today to schedule a roof inspection to prepare for summer.
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