Heavy rain, intense winds, large hailstones, and thick clusters of ice can all damage a roofing system fairly quickly. However, this is not the case for UV damage. UV damage on a roof takes time to develop, and you can only identify it with a keen eye. If any form of UV damage is left unchecked, even bigger problems will develop.
There are ways to stay one step ahead of UV damage. Before you can embark on this journey, you’ll need to learn the basics.
What Is the Threat?
When it comes to the sun and roof damage, the heat itself is not the only threat; the real threat is the overall effects of the UV rays.
There are three forms of UV rays that are produced by the sun; they are UVC, UVB, and UVA rays. Only UVB and UVC rays can reach homes, and UVC rays wreaks the most havoc on a roof.
UV rays can cause chemical damage and physical damage. Regarding physical damage, harsh UV rays can dry out shingles, and eventually, they will become brittle and crack. On a chemical level, big changes will only occur after a roof has been exposed to the sun’s UV rays for an extended length of time. For example, on a home with asphalt shingles, intense UV rays can break down the asphalt on a molecular level, and once this happens, the shingles will no longer be able to protect the decking from water damage.
The Risks
The sun’s UV rays along with intense heat can pack a mighty one-two punch on a roof. From wood shingles to asphalt shingles, all roofing materials can suffer from the effects of this powerful combo. However, the most vulnerable materials are materials that contain essential oils since intense UV rays can destroy these oils. Once these oils are gone, a roof will slowly begin to fade and deteriorate.
How to Prevent Roof Damage
There are a few ways to protect a roof from the sun’s rays. To get started, weigh your options for a protective coating and invest in one that’s fit for your home. Next, ensure that your roof is always properly ventilated, and never neglect maintenance because it will help you catch potential problems early. Finally, perform an inspection at once a year.