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Effects of Heat on Asphalt Shingles
Summer has arrived in North Carolina! With average temperatures reaching the 90s and record highs surpassing the 100-degree mark, summer is the perfect time to lounge by the pool, head to the beach, or enjoy an ice-cold treat with friends and family. While the heat serves as a perfect backdrop for relaxation and summertime fun, it can significantly affect an often-overlooked and undervalued part of your home: asphalt shingles.
Artisan takes pride in carefully installing and inspecting asphalt shingles. One of the most popular roofing materials, asphalt shingles are affordable, durable, and come in a variety of stylish colors. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to issues that may compromise your roof’s integrity and ultimately require costly repairs or even a full roof replacement.
Softening:
- Asphalt shingles are made of a mixture of asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules. When exposed to high temperatures, asphalt can soften, causing the shingles to lose their rigidity and shape. This distortion can be exacerbated by the age of the shingles and the quality of their installation.
Accelerated Aging
- It’s commonly known that prolonged, unprotected exposure to the sun can lead to accelerated aging – which is why wearing sunscreen is frequently stressed by medical professionals! But did you know that the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can have the same detrimental effects on asphalt shingles? Not only do UV rays cause asphalt shingles to lose their color and protective coating at an accelerated rate, but they can also lead to cracking, splitting, and curling. These damages can compromise your home’s ability to withstand and protect against wind, rain, and hail.
Thermal Expansion
- When temperatures rise, the asphalt in the shingles can soften and expand, causing them to buckle, warp, and shift from their original position. This leads to non-uniform bumps and ridges on your roof. Significant exposure to heat can cause gaps between shingles to form as well, which allows water and other harmful debris to seep underneath shingles and into your home.
As daunting as the hot summer sun can be, Artisan offers free estimates and wellness checks for roof repairs and replacements. Our expert technicians are trained to look for distorted, cracked, curled, or missing shingles and can identify any signs of wear and tear. Addressing these issues can help prevent further damage and extend the longevity of your roof. Additionally, a new line of shingles is available for installation. Solaris by CertainTeed reflects up to 40% of the sun’s UV rays. If your roof’s asphalt shingles look like they need some TLC, reach out to Artisan today for a free roof inspection and estimate!
