Roofs are subject to all sorts of weather conditions which can have a significant impact on them. Each year in the United States, harsh weather takes a toll on many homes in the form of hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes. While the damages these storms cause to properties are well-known, what many people don’t realize is that weather can also damage your roof. This can set homeowners up for a more difficult and expensive future. Let’s take a closer look at how bad weather affects your roof and what you can do to protect it. We will look at how different types of weather can impact your roof and what you can do to protect it.

1. Heavy Rain

It’s no secret that bad weather can wreak havoc on your home and put your family at risk. One type of weather that is particularly damaging is heavy rain. When rainfalls are heavy enough, they can cause serious problems for your roof. It can loosen or damage shingles, and it can also push water inside through the roof. Most roofs have decking made from either plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). These materials are vulnerable to water damage, and if there is enough water, it can push through these decking types. Once the decking has been damaged, the structure of your roof is at risk of being damaged as well since it weakens the support for your rafters or trusses. 

If you live in a high rainfall area, this could be a real issue. Therefore, it is important to have your roof inspected by a professional before the rainy season begins. If you are considering updating your roof, you may be wondering what roofing material is best for areas with heavy rainfall. At Greater American Roofing, our experts can give you advice based on your climate and budget.

2. High Winds

Another way that roofs can suffer damage during storms is high wind events that can cause shingles to be pulled off partially or completely. If you live in an area that is prone to high winds, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect your roof.

There are several things you can do to help keep your roof in good shape during high winds.

*First, make sure that your roof is properly anchored to your home. This will help to keep it from being blown away in strong winds. 

*Second, keep an eye on trees and other debris that could blow onto your roof and cause damage. If you see any trees or branches that could potentially fall, trim them back or remove them completely. 

*And finally, make sure to have your roof professionally inspected regularly to look for any signs of damage.

Taking these precautions, you can help to keep your roof in good condition and minimize the risk of damage.

3. Snow and Ice

Winter weather can be beautiful, but it can also wreak havoc on your home. And your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home during winter. Snow and ice can accumulate on your roof and cause various problems, from leaks to collapsed roofs.

There are several things you can do to protect your roof during winter weather. 

*First, make sure your gutters are clear of debris so they can properly drain. 

*Second, consider installing a roof rake to help remove snow and ice from your roof. 

*Third, if you have a flat roof, consider having it coated with a special membrane to help prevent leaks. 

*And finally, be sure to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof at least once a year to make sure it is in good condition. Our pros at Greater American Roofing can not only inspect your roof for potential problems but can also take preventive measures to protect your roof from snow and ice damage.

These simple steps can help protect your roof from the damaging effects of winter weather.

4. Hail

Hail is a type of precipitation that consists of balls or irregular lumps of ice. Hailstones can range from pea-sized to as large as a softball, and they can fall at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. While hail is generally considered to be a nuisance, it can cause significant damage to your roof.

Hail damage is usually most apparent on asphalt shingles, which can suffer from bruising, granule loss, and even breakage. Metal roofs can also be damaged by hail, as the impact can dent or crack the material. If you live in an area that is prone to hail storms, it’s important to have your roof inspected regularly for any signs of damage. If left untreated, hail damage can lead to leaks and other serious problems.

A roofing contractor can inspect your home for hail damage and make the necessary repairs. They can also help you take steps to prevent hail damage in the future. For example, they can install impact-resistant roofing materials or special hail guards on your roof.

5. UV Exposure

Exposure to UV rays can cause damage to your roof over time. This type of damage is most often seen in darker-colored roofs, as they absorb more UV rays than lighter-colored roofs. Damage from UV exposure can include cracking, peeling, and blistering of the roof surface.

There are a few things you can do to protect your roof from UV exposure. One is to use a reflective coating on the roof. This will help to reflect the UV rays away from the roof. Another option is to use sunscreen on the roof. This will help to filter out the UV rays and keep them from damaging the roof.

If you live in an area with a lot of sun exposure or if you think your roof may be damaged from UV exposure, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional. They will be able to determine the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of repair or replacement.