Does Summer Heat Affect Your Roof?

When you think about what causes damage to asphalt shingle roofing, hail and wind storms often come to mind. However, summer's scorching heat can also take a toll on your roof, affecting its performance and structural integrity. The good news? There are ways to safeguard your asphalt shingle roof and mitigate potential damage in the process. Here’s a look at what causes the damage during summer’s heat and how to extend the life of your roof in the future.

Do UV Rays Damage Asphalt Shingle Roofing?

One of the primary causes of summer roof damage is ultraviolet (UV) light. During the height of summer, your roof gets hit with intense UV rays, causing gradual deterioration of the roofing materials. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate your roof, speeding up the aging process. Asphalt shingles roofing in particular is more vulnerable to UV damage that leads to curling, cracking, and discoloration.

Over time, prolonged UV exposure can weaken the shingle's protective coating, dry out the asphalt, and cause the granules to loosen. This degradation reduces the shingle’s ability to shield your home from moisture and compromises the roof’s overall integrity. Homes in areas with high sun exposure or dark-colored shingles may be even more susceptible to UV-related wear. To help combat this, many premium shingles—like those from GAF and Owens Corning—are manufactured with UV-resistant technology and reflective surfaces to better withstand sun damage and extend roof life.  

High Temperatures Take a Toll on Your Roof

In addition to UV exposure, high temperatures heighten the breakdown of asphalt shingle roofing materials. Prolonged heat can cause asphalt shingles to warp, soften, or even melt in extreme cases. This compromises their ability to protect your home from the outdoor elements, leaving it susceptible to leaks and water damage.

Thermal Shock Can Weaken Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Thermal shock is another issue for asphalt shingle roofing during the summer months. As temperatures fluctuate between scorching daytime highs and cooler nights, roofing materials expand and contract—fast. This continuous cycle weakens the roof's structural integrity, eventually causing cracks, gaps, and premature aging.

High Humidity Leads to Moisture Damage

High humidity levels further compound the problem by contributing to moisture retention and condensation beneath the roof surface. Moisture can then seep into the asphalt shingle roofing layers, causing rot, mold growth, and deterioration of the underlying structure. Left unchecked, humidity-related roof damage can put the stability of your entire roof system at risk.

How to Protect Your Roof From Heat Damage

Now that you know how the heat of summer can impact your asphalt shingle roofing, it’s important to take steps to diminish the damage that can occur. Some strategies include:

Conducting Basic Roof Inspections

Regular roof inspections are key to identifying potential issues before they escalate into major problems. An experienced roofing contractor can help by assessing the condition of your asphalt shingle roofing, identifying areas of concern, and recommending appropriate repairs or maintenance steps.

Checking for Proper Insulation and Ventilation

Proper ventilation and insulation are vital for regulating temperature and moisture levels in your attic space. Adequate ventilation allows hot air to escape from the attic, preventing heat buildup and reducing the risk of moisture-related issues. Meanwhile, insulation helps maintain a stable indoor temperature and prevents heat transfer from the roof to the interior of your home.

Performing Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Tasks

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning debris from gutters and removing overhanging branches, can also help prevent summer damage to your asphalt shingle roofing. By keeping your roof clean and clear, you can minimize the risk of water pooling, mold growth, and deterioration to the structure.

Selecting Lighter Roofing Materials

If it’s time for a roof replacement, work with your asphalt shingle roofing contractor to select the roofing materials that can better withstand summer heat. Lighter-colored roofing materials, including reflective asphalt shingles, can help reduce heat absorption and thermal stress on your roof.

Get Help Protecting Your Roof From Damage

Summer heat can impact your roof over time. But when you take these proactive steps, you can work to protect your roof from damage and prolong its life span. If you’re ready for help from an expert roofing contractor, turn to Midland Roofing.  

Rhode Island’s Asphalt Roofing Experts

When it comes to protecting your home, experience and credibility matter. At Midland Roofing, we bring 50 years of asphalt roofing expertise to every project, helping Rhode Island homeowners stay protected through everything from harsh winter snow to intense summer heat and coastal storms.

We proudly install premium shingles from GAF and Owens Corning, two of the most trusted manufacturers in the industry. These shingles are built to last, offering UV protection, algae resistance, and enhanced durability against the elements.

As a GAF Master Elite^® roofing contractor and an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, we’ve also earned multiple industry awards that reflect our commitment to quality craftsmanship. Our elite certifications allow us to offer some of the strongest workmanship warranties available, giving homeowners peace of mind their investment is protected for the long haul.