How Does Weather Impact Residential Roofing?

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While you’ve most likely heard that hail, wind, rain, and even the sun can impact residential roofing, you might not understand why. This knowledge is particularly important in our area, and it can help you understand the importance of consistent roof maintenance and repairs.

How Does Weather Impact Residential Roofing?

In this blog, we’ll cover a few key elements to help you gain a clearer picture of how our North Carolina weather can impact residential roofing materials.

  • Hail: Residential roofing materials are particularly vulnerable to damage during hailstorms. The size of hailstones varies, with larger stones inflicting more serious damage. Hail damage to roofing materials such as metal panels, wooden shakes, or asphalt shingles can result in dents, cracks, or even punctures. This damage may eventually weaken the roof’s structural integrity, leaving it vulnerable to leaks and water intrusion.
  • Rain: Rain may not seem harmful, but over time, it can have a negative impact on roofing materials. Rainwater seeping through a damaged or poorly maintained roof can cause leaks, water damage, and mold growth. Preventing water damage requires routine roof inspections and prompt repairs. You’ll also need functional drainage systems, such as gutters and downspouts, to prevent water from pooling on your roof or around your foundation.
  • Wind: Residential roofing materials can experience damage from strong winds if the roof is old or improperly installed. The wind has the power to lift and remove shingles, rip off flashing, and reveal the roof’s weak spots. Furthermore, the surface of the roof may sustain impact damage from flying debris during a storm. Frequent inspections can quickly detect and address any wind-related damage, especially following severe weather events.
  • Sun: Sunlight’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can eventually fade residential roofing shingles, causing them to become weak and brittle. Selecting roofing materials with UV-resistant coatings and applying protective sealants on a regular basis can help the roof last longer.