How Climate Change Impacts Your Roof and How to Protect It

Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events across many parts of the world. This can have a major impact on your home, especially your roof. Your roof protects your most valuable asset, so it’s crucial to understand how climate change may affect it and what you can do to prepare. Here’s how climate change impacts your roof and how roofers in Fayetteville, NC can help protect and repair your roof from damage.

The Biggest Risks for Roof Damage

Hail

Hail poses one of the largest threats to roofs. These balls of ice pelt the roof at high speeds during severe storms. Even small hail can chip and dent asphalt shingles, while larger hailstones can cause serious fractures and punctures. This damage not only accelerates wear and tear but also allows openings for water intrusion.

High Winds

Powerful winds from storms can lift, tear off, and shred roofing materials. Shingles, tiles, and decking are all vulnerable. Wind can even damage the underlying roof structure and lead to collapse. Fasteners and adhesives may fail, exposing more of the roof to wind forces. Proper installation is key for wind resistance.

Heavy Rain

Intense rainfall saturates roofing materials. This added weight and pooling water stresses the roof and waterproofing. Seams, valleys, and flashings are most prone to leaking from heavy rain. Drainage issues will exacerbate water buildup. Regular maintenance checks that drainage systems are clear.

Snow

Large snow accumulations also burden roofs with excess static weight. Steeply-pitched and low-slope roofs are at the greatest risk. Heavy snow can damage gutters as well, allowing meltwater to seep under shingles and leak. Clearing snow off the roof and installing ice dams can help minimize damage.

How to Recognize the Signs of Damage

It’s important to periodically inspect your roof and look for any signs of damage from severe weather. Some things to look for include:

• Missing, cracked, curled, or torn shingles
• Punctures or dents on shingles from hail
• Exposed nail heads or adhesive
• Sagging or uneven areas
• Leaks, moisture, or water stains on ceilings and walls
• Daylight visible through roof
• Damaged or blocked gutters and downspouts

If you spot any of these issues, contact a professional roofer in Fayetteville, NC right away to assess and repair the damage before it worsens.

How to Fix Common Damage Issues

For minor damage like a few missing shingles, a roofer can quickly replace them to match the existing roof. Areas with extensive hail damage will require shingle replacement and inspection for punctures. Leaks may necessitate flashing repairs or sealing of roof penetrations. Severe wind and heavy snow damage like torn membranes, damaged decking or trusses, or collapsed sections may require partial or full roof replacement.

Ways to Proactively Protect Your Roof From Severe Weather

There are several preventative measures you can take to safeguard your roof:

• Install impact-resistant shingle materials like fiberglass composition, slate, metal, or clay tile.
• Use special nails and adhesive strips to better secure shingles.
• Inspect and repair flashing, valleys, vents, and seals around chimneys.
• Trim overhanging tree branches.
• Maintain proper roof slope and drainage.
• Add braces and straps to fortify your roof deck against wind uplift.
• Consider hail-proof underlayments.
• Install an electric heating system to melt snow on the roof’s edge.

The Long-Term Risk Factors for Roof Damage

Even if your roof withstands an intense storm, the cumulative effects of severe weather take a toll over time. Prolonged UV exposure, fluctuating temperatures, wind, and moisture oxidation degrade roofing materials. Brittle and cracked shingles lose weather resistance. Regular professional inspections and preventative maintenance will maximize your roof’s lifespan.

Contact Advanced Roofing Solutions to Get a Free Estimate From Our Roofers in Fayetteville, NC

If your roof has suffered storm damage or just needs some TLC, contact the experienced team at Advanced Roofing Solutions. Serving the Fayetteville area for many years, we provide comprehensive roofing services including inspections, maintenance, repairs, and installation. Our roofers can advise you on the best solutions to protect your home and avoid expensive damages. Contact our team for your free estimate from our roofers in Fayetteville, NC!