Summer has arrived and the ‘Sunshine-State’ has had record breaking temperatures this year. If you think you’re the only one bearing the brunt of these extreme temperatures-think again! Your rooftop temperatures can reach anywhere from 50-75 degrees Fahrenheit above the normal temperatures during the summer months. Add the other fact of living in one of the hottest climates in the U.S. and this combination of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can also speed up the aging of your asphalt shingles. Other factors such as moisture, air pollution, and wind can cause roof degradation over time. The summer months in Florida also means plenty of rain , thunderstorms, or even hurricanes.Thunderstorms can cause roof deck contractions when a colder front replaces the heat. The expansion and contraction of your roof deck can cause a large strain on the shingles during these hot summer months. This process repeats itself year after year, thus-shortening the lifespan of your roof. From the very moment your roof is installed, natures elements will begin to degrade and age your roof over a period of time.
There is no way to prevent your roof from its natural aging process.However; there are ways you can prolong the life of your roof so you and your family can stay safe and protected from even the harshest of natures elements! Here at Timothy Parks Construction, Inc. your family’s safety is important to us. Here are some tips to ensure your safety!
Tips for prolonging your roof(all roof types):
• Inspect your gutters and downspouts to make sure water is flowing freely.
• Make sure all roof drains and gutters are clean and free from spring time flower blossoms.
• If you have an older roof(over ten years), observe it from the ground during a strong wind storm.Look for any loose shingles. Loose shingles can wreak havoc causing potential leaks.
• Check for moss. You can purchase roof moss killer at your local hardware store. After the moss has been killed then you can sweep it off of your roof.* Do not purchase ‘yard moss’ killer, only ‘roof moss’ killer!
• If you have continuous ridge ventilation it’s not a good idea to walk or sit on your ridge shingles.
•We do not recommend pressure washing your roof. This could cause damage. especially if you have asphalt shingles. Pressure washing your roof could remove the granules which protect the shingles from the sun.Losing that sunscreen layer could cause your shingles to harden and crack and premature aging of your roof. If your roof has cedar shingles pressure washing them could remove the top, thus-thinning the layer of your shingles.
Prolonging the life of Flat / Torch Down Roofs:
• During the summer months, try to do any roof inspecting in the early morning hours when it’s cooler, otherwise you could cause damage to the torch down bitumen.
• Look for deep cracking on Torch down and hot tar roof surfaces. If you notice that the surface is dried similar to that of alligator skin, it may be time for a new roof.
• check your roof for membrane uplift around perimeters and elevation changes after severe *wind storms.
• Apply an aluminum-based coating around every 5 years. this will protect your roof from UV degradation.
While these are helpful roof care tips, we strongly recommend that you call a professional. You can call Timothy Parks Construction at:
941-270-2677
*A note regarding wind storm damage:
A homeowners worst nightmare can quickly become a reality due to wind storm damage resulting in costly property damage and insurance claims. Roof damage can lead to extensive water damage to your home and its furnishings.Once you have any type of roof deck damage(even partial damage) your home suffers a major loss. At Timothy Park Construction we will provide you with a wind mitigation report. We encourage you to receive a free wind inspection through the My Safe Florida Home Program where you may be eligible for credits or insurance discounts.You will be provided with a from to fill out that you can provide to your insurance carrier. These credits and discounts will save you money in the long run.
As of November1, 2007 wind inspection firms are expected to complete a full uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection(OIR-B1-1802) to all homeowners who receive a free wind inspection through the My Safe Florida Home Program. Once the form is signed by the inspector then you can forward the form to your insurance company.
We recommend that you take advantage of the wind mitigation program not only for possible insurance savings, but for the safety of you and your family. If you have any questions call us at :
941-270-2677
We are approved contractors with the My Safe Florida Home Program #11487 and your safety is #1
Roof replacement or roof repairs needed? - Timothy Parks Construction & Roofing can give you roofing piece of mind. Our professional GAF ELK Certified CE 18239 roofing service will provide the perfect solution for your home improvement and remodeling needs in Sarasota, FL. http://www.tprci.com/roofing.html (941) 270-2677 Sarasota, FL
Note: Cross posted from Timothy's space.Permalink
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