One of the challenges that homeowners will have to face when living in Florida is the harsh climate. However, it isn’t the freeze cycle or the massive snowballs that you have to deal with in Florida - it’s the salt air, extreme humidity, hurricane winds, and, of course, the blazing sun during the summer.

Roof damage may result from any one of those mentioned above. And while you can DIY fix some of the problems, others can be too complicated and might require professional work from companies like Eagle Roofing of Florida to get repaired.

No doubt, unlike any other part of the country, roofs down Florida regularly get a workout. Read on below for a detailed look at how Florida summer weather equals disaster to roofs and how to repair it.

The summer weather of Florida leads to damaged roofs because of the following:

1. Ultraviolet Radiation From The Blazing Sun

The beautiful sun of Florida is a significant reason why people flock to live in the state. The problem is that the roofs of houses can easily get damaged because of this. Asphalt deterioration is common, and it’s because of the ultraviolet radiation - yes, the same UV that causes sunburn.

UV radiation can also destroy plastic-based products through time like some types of roofing material. In fact, even concrete tiles may experience color fading because of prolonged UV exposure. Older shingle roofs, on the other hand, are more prone to damages because of ultraviolet radiation. They end up getting thin and brittle, making it easier for other weather elements to destroy them.

It’s easy for the roof surface to reach up to 200 degrees when the sun of Florida is directly overhead during the summer. When this happens and it rains, the roof can rapidly cool and it will only make things worse. This UV exposure-rapid downpour cycle can happen two to three times a day and may repeat a dozen times in a single month, adding stress and damages to the roof.

2. Constant Extreme Humidity

Another problem that Florida roofs will face is the constant extreme humidity in the state. Yes, even the best-applied seals and seams can get compromised because of the moisture that results from many lakes and swamps that surround Florida. Mildew, algae, and moss may also grow and develop because of the moisture. Rot and deterioration will follow after their growth since they trap moisture, on top of the roof becoming unsightly.

3. Wind

Another major concern for homeowners in Florida is the wind. The state is infamous for tropical storms and hurricanes, and the winds that accompany them can be extreme.

It’s the reason why installing roofing components like shingles and tiles that got manufactured to substandard specifications is really something that homeowners should avoid. Strong winds can quickly get up underneath them and as you might have guessed right, the entire roofing system can get easily destroyed once the roof components get compromised.

Wind-driven rain is also a problem since it can approach roofs from the sides too, so roofing that got designed to prevent rain intrusion that falls vertically will suffer. The last thing you’d want is water damage in your home.

4. Salt Air

Those that are near the abundant coastline of the state will have to face another problem - the salt air. Roof elements, especially those that have metal flashings, may corrode because of the salt in the air. It’s essential to note that when a tropical storm or hurricane hits, it can also carry salt-laden sea spray to the buildings that are far from shore.

How To Repair Damaged Roofs In Florida

Now that you’ve already understood how the summer weather of Florida can affect the roof in your house, it’s time to tackle the ways to repair these damages. The most common and most practical ones are the following:

1. Fixing Leaks

Blisters and cracks may result from the harsh summer weather of Florida, which can result in leaks. These usually come from chimneys, vents, and joints when they obtain small cracks. You can locate the damage by following the water stains from the ceiling to the exterior. Bubbles may also indicate leaking since they result from the collection of water and air.

What you can do to fix leaks is to mend the gap using a roofing sealant. Please take note, though, that you can only use a sealant in gaps that are not wider than 0.64 cm. Patching can be a better solution if they go beyond this limit.

It’s easy to mend minor damages in rubber roll roofing or asphalt. However, professional help is your best bet for mold, rot, widespread water, or water stains on the ceiling or roof.

2. Replace Shingles

Individual shingles may split or get damaged over time, especially when they get exposed to the summer weather of Florida. If that’s the case, it would be best to replace them. Use a hammer and chisel for splitting the shingle into several narrow pieces before yanking them out with the use of pliers. You can then use a hacksaw blade by splitting it under the shingle above, cutting through the nails that hold the old one in place. Trim the new shingle using a utility knife, matching the width of the available space. Then, slide it to its final position. Finally, use a hammer and a wood block for tapping the new shingle to place.

Conclusion

The blazing sun, humidity, wind, and salt air of Florida’s summer weather can damage your roof over time. This is why it’s essential to monitor and maintain your roof correctly. Common problems you’ll encounter include a leak that you can fix using a sealant or through patching and shingle replacement. Don’t hesitate to ask for professional assistance if you’re not sure how to go about these repairs.

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