As the primary source of protection between your family and the outdoor elements, your roof stands up to a lot of abuse. It shields you from the sun, wind, and rain (not to mention the overly curious squirrel), and can last a really long time. Since it protects you, you'll want to make sure you protect it as well.

Of all the possible elements that can damage your roof, hot weather is one of the more subtle. It doesn't matter where you live either, since the combination of heat and humidity can destroy your roof without you knowing it. Your regular roofing inspection should alert you to any issues, but don't be surprised if your contractor suggests residential roof repair even if your roof appears fine on the surface.

Here are a few ways that the heat can damage your roof.

Contracting and Expanding

The change in seasons affects your house more than you think. The switch from cold weather to hot weather can make the support beams underneath your roof contract and expand, causing them to creak and even crack prematurely. This is especially dangerous if you live in an older home, but those who live in particularly wet climates need to pay special attention as well, since water can damage it further by freezing and then thawing out. Regular residential roof repair services should involve treating those wooden beams to ensure they last a long time.

Shingle Deterioration

Even though asphalt is the number one roofing material in America today, it's far from the most durable. Its popularity can be attributed to its relatively low cost and ease of installation; unfortunately, it's also subject to rapid deterioration under the sun. The heat can cause the shingles to warp and peel, necessitating a replacement to make sure the area underneath it isn't exposed to possible water damage. A quick ground inspection should enable you to see if you need to hire for residential roof repair to fix your roofing.

Condensation

Hot, muggy air can also damage your roof. Even if you aren't experiencing a high amount of rainfall, water from the air can form condensation underneath your shingles and cause significant water damage, even if the shingle above it is still intact. More than anything else, the invisible nature of this type of damage shows the importance of regular inspection and residential roof repairs. Make sure you schedule them often, especially if you live in a hot and humid part of the world.