Why Late-Summer Heat Exposes Roofing Failures in Shore Communities

During the late-summer, the heat isn’t done. There is still plenty of UV exposure, heat, and humidity to contend with, as well as the lingering potential for storms.  Along the shoreline, homes are faced with these problems and coastal conditions, like salt, moisture, and wind. It’s during these weeks when homeowners start to notice roofing failures connected to late-summer heat. Roofing contractors in Cape May County, for example, see their appointments spike.

So what can you do about late-summer heat exposing roofing failures in your shore community? We have the answers.

How Late-Summer Heat Affects Roofing Systems

Homes in shore communities, like Cape May, Villas, West Cape May, and Schellenger’s Landing, face numerous environmental factors throughout the year. Summer tends to bring the harshest conditions that wear down roofing materials quickly.

Here are some of the ways the heat during the tail-end of summer affects your roof:

• Expansion and contraction of roofing materials leading to loosening and warping
• Breakdown of adhesives, sealants, and flashing
• Accelerated aging of shingles and membranes
• Increased attic temperatures stressing decking and ventilation systems
• How trapped moisture turns into visible damage under extreme heat

Any one of these can lead to a roofing issue that leads to failure, repairs or replacement.

Why Shore Communities in Cape May County Are More Vulnerable

Shore communities tend to be more vulnerable to late-summer heat than those located further inland. Why? Because of the combination of salt, wind, moisture, and heat is powerful. Even with routine maintenance, a roof will see accelerated wear and tear.

There five things combine to bring about roofing issues in shore communities:

• Salt air corrosion of fasteners and flashing (and other metal components)
• High ambient humidity slowing roof drying
• Frequent summer storms and wind-driven rain
• Intense sun reflection from sand and water
• Older coastal construction and complex rooflines

Most roofing materials can tolerate a number of environmental factors—rain, snow, ice, wind, heat—but not for such a long period of time. Along the shore, the salt breaking down metal components, flashing getting loosened by wind, and extensive bouts of humidity can open tiny spaces under shingles or seals, letting in water.

Additionally, homes that haven’t been upgraded with coastal-grade materials may end up with poor ventilation and insulation, thereby trapping more moisture.

Common Roofing Failures That Surface in Late Summer

Many roofing problems can occur throughout the year, but some are more common during the end of summer, when the heat has peaked and mornings start to cool. Here are some roofing failures that may surface:

• Shingle blistering, curling, and granule loss
• Soft spots and hidden decking deterioration
• Sealant cracking and flashing separation
• Skylight and roof penetration leaks
• Ventilation failures and heat-related moisture buildup
• Interior warning signs: stains, odors, and warped drywall

As mentioned previously, late-summer problems happen because UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, salt, and moisture wear your roof down. By the end of summer, any excessive wear is going to become visible, especially if there are storms.

How Late-Summer Heat Reveals Existing Storm Damage

Shore communities are at risk for storm-related damage, whether from storm surges or strong winds. As summer ends, another threat looms on the horizon: nor’easters. This is another problem. When temperatures and weather patterns change abruptly, your roof can’t keep up. Any existing storm damage, no matter how minor, will start to worsen as heat, humidity, and wind makes an impact. For example, small tears or lifted nails lead to tiny openings that allow water to seep in. Suddenly, a small breach turns into an active leak.

That is why roofing problems in August and September seem to come out of nowhere. In reality, there’s been storm damage building up, thermal expansion and contraction, and material fatigue. When all that piles up, your roof reaches a critical point where it can’t do it’s job, and you start to notice moisture within the home and failing shingles.

Preventive Steps for Shore Homeowners

So how can shore community homeowners tackle storm-damage and roof failure? Knowledge is one step. The next are proactive measures that you can take throughout the year to protect your home:

• Schedule a professional roof inspection before the start of fall or winter if you suspect hidden damage.
• Check your attic and ventilation for damage and trapped moisture.
• Promptly repair any minor damage that your come across when doing roof maintenance.
• Keep your gutters and drains free of debris so water doesn’t get backed up.
• Use coastal-rated materials and fasteners for more roof durability.
• Monitor the condition of your skylights, flashing, and roof edges.

Protect Your Shore Home From Roofing Failure in Late-Summer with RGB Construction

While roof failure is often caused by compounded damage that builds up throughout the summer (or even from summers prior), there are things you can do today to prevent such damage from occurring. Prioritize roof maintenance and know the signs of damage. After strong storms, consider calling a roofing contractor in South Jersey to evaluate the health of your roof. When small damage is found, you can avoid more expensive repairs later.

RGB Construction has been helping South Jersey shore communities with roof damage for over twenty years. Our experienced team knows exactly what to look for and how to repair late-summer roofing problems quickly and effectively.