How Hot Weather Can Affect Flat Roofs

Most homeowners prepare their properties for the cold, freezing temperatures of winter. Part of their preparations would be to ensure that their roofs are in tiptop condition, are prepared for winter downpours, snow and ice. This is good and should be done to keep the home safe and comfortable.

Most people, however, fail to recognize that summer and hot weather can also bring devastating effects to roofs, especially flat roofs made of felt and bitumen. Hot weather can cause these roofs to deteriorate and are ill-equipped to protect the home during winter seasons, necessitating roof repair.

Here are some ways hot weather, especially the scorching  summer months, can affect flat roofs:

Thermal movement

Frequent changes in temperatures during the summer months can cause roofs to expand and contract repeatedly, resulting in cracks that can allow water to penetrate the roof.

Flat roofs with waterproof materials such as single-ply PVC are able to resist the effects of frequent temperature changes, but roofs with traditional materials such as felt are more susceptible to this kind of damage.

Blistering

Water that is able to penetrate through cracks in the roof expand when it is heated by summer’s high temperatures. As the water expands, it lifts the felt from the roof, causing blisters or bubbles to appear. Left over time, blistering will cause bigger problems which can only be fixed with a roof replacement.

Flashing damage

Summers in Texas are often humid. High humidity levels, coupled with high temperatures, can cause fungal growth in flat roofs leading to damaged flashing. Periodic inspection and proper drainage will help prevent this problem from happening.

Pooled water

Poor drainage makes a flat roof vulnerable to water pooling. Pooled water, if left standing for more than 72 hours, will cause extensive damage to your home. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are functioning properly to prevent this from happening.

If you’re unsure about your flat roof’s condition and ability to withstand hot summer weather, you should contact a trusted roofer to inspect it and keep it in tiptop shape.

Contact Storm Master Construction & Roofing, your leading roofing contractor in the area, for your roofing needs. Call us at (817) 717-5348 to get a free estimate! We serve Fort Worth, TX, and the surrounding communities.