When you hear the words “solar radiation,” you probably imagine a bright, hot sun shining down on you. But how is it linked to your roof? And how concerned should you be about it?
Sonners Contracting Inc. answers some common questions about solar radiation and its effects on your roof. We’ll also provide you with some ideas on how to keep your home safe from the sun’s rays.
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that can damage your roof and the shingles. Shingle life is significantly reduced when exposed to UV radiation. It can cause issues such as curling, cracking, loss of granules, and failure to adhere correctly on the roof decking or underlayment – all in a relatively short period!
Why Is Solar Radiation Bad For My Roof?
If you wonder why solar radiation is harmful to your roof, consider what happens when something else gets too much exposure from direct sunlight. An apple left on the counter all day will brown in certain areas and not in others, just as your roof will.
Types of Sun Damage:
Three types of sun damage can happen to a roof:
- Fading
- Granule loss
- Adhesive failure
Fading is pretty self-explanatory – the colors on your roof will start to fade over time if it’s constantly exposed to sunlight.
Granule loss is when the little pieces of shingle that make up your roofing material start coming off. It happens because the UV rays from the sun break down the adhesive that holds them in place, and eventually, they fall right off.
Adhesive failure is when the sealant between the shingles and the roof deck starts to come loose, leading to water infiltration and eventual roof leaks.
All of these problems can be very costly to fix, so it’s essential to be proactive and take steps to protect your roof from the sun’s harmful rays.
How Can I Protect My Roof?
Proactive Layer:
Suppose you want to protect your home’s roof from damage caused by UV rays. In that case, it might be worthwhile considering applying some protective coating over the top of the existing one already applied at the time of installation (if applicable). It should ideally take place every two years to protect the long-term against further deterioration.
High-Quality Roofing Material:
Less costly materials may not endure as long when exposed to continued UV radiation and require more expensive repairs later. Asphalt shingles are frequently regarded as one of the finest roofing choices for homes because they are cheap and durable enough to withstand all types of weather.
Ventilation and Insulation:
Another way to protect your roof against the sun is by ensuring adequate ventilation and insulation. When your home has proper ventilation, it will keep the hot air from building up under your roof or in-between attic walls, which can lead to shingle damage.
To Sum Up:
Sonners Contracting Inc. offers the best roofing installation, repair, and replacement services for your homes and offices in Littleton. Get in touch with us to receive a free estimate for your roofing project today!
