Most people take their roofs for granted. However, it’s perhaps the most important part of your home. It acts as a shield against the weather, keeping you and your possessions safe year after year. 

Your roof is constantly exposed to weather conditions, all of which can take a toll over time. From heavy rain and snow to hail and extreme heat and cold, your roof is tested by Mother Nature year after year. Understanding how to help your roof take on these challenges can help extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs.  

Rain and Your Roof

Rain might seem like a fairly gentle weather condition compared to hail or snow, but over time, it can cause significant damage to your roofing system. Over time, water erodes any weak spots and seeps in through cracks and gaps, leading to leaks inside your home. 

If your roof’s drainage system isn’t functioning correctly – for example, if you have roof sagging –  water can pool on the surface, which puts added weight on the roof structure and accelerates wear. Think of it this way. We soak things in water to remove adhesives and break down tough stains. Soaking your shingles in a puddle of water for a long period of time will eventually cause them to break down, too. 

When your roof doesn’t get an opportunity to dry in places where it’s shady, it may also start to develop moss or algae growth, which also degrades your roofing shingles. 

To keep your roof in tip-top shape during rainy weather, ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. You also want to regularly check for damaged shingles, flashing, or seams where water can penetrate and erode the underlayment. Catching these small issues early on prevents larger problems down the road. If you do have sagging or other major roofing problems, consider getting a free roof evaluation to see if it’s time to replace your roof. 

Snow Buildup and Its Effect On Your Roof

Snow-capped roofs may be picturesque, but when snow accumulates on your roof, it could spell trouble. Snow adds significant weight that puts stress on the structure. Depending on the amount of snow and the type of roof, this could lead to sagging or even collapse in extreme cases. Even more concerning is the formation of ice dams. When warm air inside the attic melts the snow on the roof and then refreezes at the edge, it blocks drainage into the gutters. The water then backs up under shingles and can potentially leak into your home.

Here are a few tips to keep your roof safe from snowy weather. After heavy snowfall, carefully remove snow from the roof with a roof rake. Focus on areas that are most prone to heavy buildup, like valleys and the roof’s edge, but be careful not to damage the shingles.

Proper attic insulation helps maintain a consistent temperature, preventing warm air from rising and melting snow. That, in turn, slows the formation of ice dams.  

Hail and Storm Damage On Your Roof

 Hailstorms can cause immediate and noticeable damage to your roof. Hailstones strike shingles with enough force to create cracks, dents, or even complete breaks. This can compromise the integrity of your roof, leading to leaks and further damage if not addressed quickly. 

What should you do after a hailstorm? First, inspect your roof. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracked, missing, or dented shingles. Even if the damage isn’t immediately visible, it’s often best to call in a roofing professional to assess the damage. They can identify hidden problems and recommend repairs or replacements if necessary.

If damage is found, document it with photos so that you can contact your homeowner’s insurance company to file a claim. Hail damage is covered under many insurance policies. 

High Winds and Roof Durability

Tornadoes and hurricanes are known to pack quite a punch. High-wind storms are the most destructive force of nature when it comes to your roof.  Winds can loosen shingles, cause them to tear off, or even lift entire sections of roofing materials. Debris carried by high winds can also strike the roof, causing punctures, dents, or other damage. When wind speeds exceed 50 mph, they can be enough to cause structural damage to even well-installed roofs if they aren’t designed to withstand such forces.

While tornadoes and hurricanes aren’t as common in this area, they still happen. Choosing quality shingles or a metal roof goes a long way to protect your home from high winds. For example, CertainTeed Landmark shingles offer wind protection up to 110 mph. Metal roofs are also a quality choice if you are concerned about high winds. 

Ensure that shingles and flashing are properly secured during routine roof maintenance. Loose and flapping materials are much more likely to be damaged or blown away, potentially taking other things with them. 

Extreme Heat and Sun Exposure

While Southeastern PA doesn’t usually experience heat waves above 100 degrees, the summers are still known to be hot.  Over time, prolonged exposure to the sun’s heat and UV rays can cause roofing materials to degrade. Asphalt shingles, in particular, are prone to cracking and warping due to the constant expansion and contraction caused by temperature fluctuations. UV rays also cause the protective granules on shingles to wear away, exposing the underlying layers and reducing the roof’s effectiveness at repelling both water and heat.

Lighter shingle colors reflect heat instead of absorbing it, making them better for summer. Of course, lighter shingles don’t absorb the heat as well as darker shingles in Pennsylvania’s winter months. For that reason, we recommend that you choose the light or dark shingle color that you prefer for your home. 

Extreme heat can exacerbate pre-existing roof issues, such as cracking or aging materials. Regularly inspect your roof for signs of damage and replace any worn or damaged shingles to prevent leaks and further deterioration. If you have concerns about your roof, reach out for a free roof evaluation. 

The Best Roofing System Year-Round

When it comes to protecting your roof year-round, the right roofing system can make all the difference. CertainTeed Landmark and Landmark Pro shingles are two of the best options available to withstand various weather conditions, from intense heat and strong winds to heavy rain and snow. These high-quality shingles are designed to provide long-lasting protection, ensuring your roof stays secure and performs well in all types of weather.

Reasons To Choose CertainTeed Landmark and Landmark Pro Shingles

•  Both Landmark and Landmark Pro shingles are built to last, offering excellent resistance against harsh weather. Landmark Pro shingles, in particular, are enhanced with additional granules that help protect against sun damage and resist granule loss, ensuring the roof’s performance over time.
• These shingles are engineered to withstand high winds, offering a superior bond and helping to prevent shingles from lifting or tearing away. Landmark Pro shingles feature added wind resistance, making them ideal for areas prone to storms and strong gusts.
• The tough construction of Landmark shingles provides added protection against hail and debris. With their robust impact resistance, they can help minimize damage caused by hailstorms or flying debris during high winds.
• Both Landmark and Landmark Pro shingles are available with **Cool Roofing** options, reflecting more sunlight and absorbing less heat. This feature helps reduce energy costs by keeping your home cooler in hot weather and reducing the strain on your HVAC system.
• In addition to their durability, CertainTeed shingles are available in a wide range of colors and styles to complement the look of your home. Whether you prefer a classic or more modern aesthetic, you can find the perfect match for your roof.

Landmark and Landmark Pro shingles are designed to perform well in both summer heat and winter cold. With their excellent heat resistance and ability to shed snow and ice, these shingles are ideal for maintaining a strong and secure roof no matter what the season brings.

Protecting Your Home From Mother Nature

The weather can have a significant impact on the lifespan and integrity of your roof. Whether it’s the relentless rain, the weight of snow, the impact of hail, strong winds, or the harmful effects of sun exposure, each element presents unique challenges. 

By understanding these weather impacts and taking proactive steps to protect your roof, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure that your roof remains strong and functional for years to come. Regular inspections, routine maintenance, and timely repairs are key to keeping your roof in top condition. If you’re unsure about the state of your roof, schedule a free roof evaluation to see if it’s time to upgrade. 

Choosing the right roofing material is essential to safeguarding your home from the elements. CertainTeed Landmark and Landmark Pro shingles offer the protection, durability, and aesthetics you need to ensure your roof stands strong through all types of weather.

Whether you need a repair or are looking for a complete roof replacement, Volpe Enterprises, Inc. can help. With 50+ years of experience and hundreds of five-star reviews on Google, you can be sure that we’ll be there before the weather strikes.