Common Roof Problems Brought on by the Central Valley Heat

Another hot summer and your roof is looking the worse for wear? You may be asking what is behind the higher energy bills in July and August, or if the heat in the Central Valley is inflicting some unseen harm.

You have come to the right place. For over a decade A+ Roofing Services has been of service to homeowners and businesses in the Central Valley from our Modesto home as a family run, local concern. Any questions about your roof, put us on the phone at (209) 502-2904.

It is no secret the Central Valley is among California’s hottest climes; in the summer it is not unusual for the mercury to go well over 100. A roof has to endure that sort of unrelenting heat and, if you are not on top of things, it will result in costly problems and a reduced lifespan for your roofing system.

What Makes Heat So Hard on a Central Valley Roof

When the sun is out the materials in your roof expand, then they contract with the night time cool down. In Stockton, Turlock, Manteca and elsewhere this cycle is repeated day in and day out all through the summer, wearing things down quicker than one would think.

Then there are the UV rays which do their work on shingles and other surfaces, degrading the protective layers. It is a slow process and many a homeowner is none the wiser until a leak makes its presence known.

Typical Problems We See from the Heat

The following are some of the more frequent complaints we field:

• Shingles that are brittle, cracked or have curled at the edge, the asphalt having been dried out by the heat.
• Blisters. Moisture and heat make for small bubbles on the roof that will pop and leave the surface vulnerable.
• Materials left faded and worn. The UV exposure will strip the granules off shingles and rob them of color.
• Wood that has warped or split. Repeated heat will dry out and distort fascia boards and decking.
• Sealant around the flashing, vents and chimney can crack and fail, an open invitation for water.
• An attic where poor ventilation allows heat to build up, aging the shingles from underneath and driving up your cooling bill.

Heat Damage Can Be Insidious

Often these issues are of little consequence when they first appear, be it a bit of sealant gone dry or a shingle with a crack. Yet once water gets in it does not take long for the underlayment and decking to be compromised, and even the inside of the house.

A regular inspection will turn up most of these before they become a problem and is invariably less expensive than dealing with a ceiling leak after the fact.

Is Your Roof Showing Signs of Heat Damage?

Watch for any of the below:

• Granules from shingles in the downspouts or gutters
• From vantage point of the ground, shingles appear to be faded, cracked or curled
• Cooling costs that are above normal in the summer months
• Discoloration or stains on walls and ceilings
• Excessive heat in the attic
• Dried out sealant or gaps at roof penetrations

If you see such things, have someone professional have a look at it before the next heat wave.

Put Some Protection on Your Roof

To better withstand the heat there are things to be done. Make sure your attic is properly ventilated so the hot air can get out and is not baking the roof from within. Have the odd small issue nipped in the bud with an inspection. And should you be in the market for a new roof, opt for something with a high heat and UV rating.

We at A+ Roofing Services do both commercial and residential work, from roofs to fencing and gutters, in Merced, San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties. The Better Business Bureau accredits us and gives us good marks. We also provide free estimates so there are no surprises. First responders, military, teachers and doctors can put 5 per cent off, and we have financing via ServiceFinancing with pre-qualification.

Before the Central Valley summer has its way with your roof, get in touch with us at (209) 502-2904 for a no cost estimate. We are here to help you put your roof in fine order for the years ahead, Monday to Saturday 7:00am to 7:00pm.