How you can prevent damage to your roof from the sun
Intense heat can cause a number of problems on an aging roof. That’s why it’s important to prepare your roof for the intense summers of Arizona and any extreme weather conditions by making sure you take the right precautions to deal with up to 120-degree heat.
Choosing the right material for your roof can help in protecting it from heat. All roofing materials don’t have the same durability when it comes to extreme temperatures, and some are better than others. Asphalt shingles are more likely to be threatened by extreme temperatures of 120 degrees, and it usually reaches those highs during Arizona summers. Clay tiles, on the other hand, do well with intense heat, as clay is a material that can withstand high temperatures (think about clay baking in a kiln). Clay tiles can stand up to heat and can last as long as 50 years or more.
Have the proper ventilation available for your roof. The most dangerous part of dealing with intense roof heat isn’t when the sun is shining on the roof, but when it sets. The reason for this is because the heat pooled in your roof all day long and then experiences thermal shock in the evening when your roof starts to cool down rapidly. Thermal shock will cause your roof to expand and contract every day, resulting in wear and tear of your roof. The good news is that this can be easily fixed by having a good ventilation system in your roof. Ventilation systems keep your roof’s temperature the same throughout the entire day. Additionally, not having proper ventilation can cause condensation. Having proper ventilation will help the warm moisture inside move out of the house before it condenses on or under the roof. Hot air rises, so having vents closer to the ceiling will help air circulation.
Use a roof coat or seal coat to ensure your roof stays in great condition through the summer. Roof or seal coats create a protective layer that reflects UV rays and other weather conditions. An average commercial roof lasts about 20 years, but with the addition of a coating system, the roof’s life can be extended by up to 10, 15 or even 20 years. Consider these types when selecting a roof coating: acrylic, asphalt emulsion, butyl rubber or silicone. The performance of a commercial roof coating depends on multiple factors. Each coating has its own sets of strengths and weaknesses, and things like environmental factors, age, roof type and more must be taken into account before deciding on a suitable, long-term solution for your roof. American Roofing & Waterproofing is here to help you protect your roof this summer!
Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is made up of the chemicals methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), and polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI). Together, they react rapidly, and then harden to create a foam that insulates, air-seals and provides a moisture barrier. There are many advantages to having an SPF roof in Arizona. These roofs are sustainable and require minimum upkeep, are energy efficient, have thermal insulation and are an easy addition to any roof.
When making decisions for repairs for your roofs, consider American Roofing & Waterproofing. Our team has the experience and knowledge to provide you with quality service you can trust.