Published: 10/25/2023

If you live in Florida, you know how hot it can get in the depths of summer, and add 100% humidity to that and it’s almost surprising that everything in sight isn’t melting to the ground.

How is this heat and humidity affecting your home’s roof? While your roof is working hard to help keep you cool inside the home, it’s bearing the full brunt of the climate. Keep reading to learn more about how the Florida heat can affect your roof and why it’s important to have regular professional roof inspections throughout the year.

Asphalt Shingles

Under the unrelenting heat of the Florida sun, asphalt shingles can suffer damage over time that can reduce its lifespan if not properly addressed. The heat can cause the shingles to become brittle and suffer from cracking or curling, which can eventually lead to leaking.

Aesthetically, the color of the shingles can fade as a result of the high UV exposure, though the industry’s top brands have upped their game in recent years when it comes to overall quality, including colorfastness.

Metal Roofing

The heat from the hot Florida sun can cause the roofing materials to expand and contract, which could, over time, potentially cause fasteners to become loose or allow seams to open up. This can result in leaking if not appropriately taken care of.

Furthermore, prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead deterioration of the paint or coating, which protects the metal underneath. A compromised coating can eventually lead to corrosion of the metal panel.

Roof Tiles

Concrete and clay tiles are relatively resilient to heat, but they can still expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, which carries the risk of causing issues with the roof's structure. Proper installation and ventilation can help ensure that they can handle the heat and minimize potential damage.

Flat Roofs

When it comes to flat roofs, the materials used can absorb a great deal of heat if they’re not treated with a reflective coating, which means that they can deteriorate more rapidly in the Florida heat. Accelerated aging can be mitigated by ensuring the roof has adequate insulation and ventilation.

Preventing Heat Damage To Florida Roofs

Proper maintenance and care can dramatically extend the longevity of your Florida roof, no matter which type of materials you opt for.

1. Always call a professional, well-reviewed roofing company to install your roof. Proper installation can help prevent premature damage and reduce the roof's lifespan.

2. Have your roof inspected at least once per year (though twice per year is better) to check for potential issues that can be repaired before becoming a big problem. You can conduct visual inspections yourself, however, a professional roofer has the experience as well as the tools to detect anomalies below the surface. When you have your roof inspected is the best time to schedule any needed routine maintenance that will help your roof last longer and stand up to the elements.

3. Small issues can quickly escalate into major problems if left untreated. If you notice any damage, such as loose or damaged shingles or flashing, call your local roofing company ASAP to schedule a professional inspection and repair.

4. Consider adding shade structures or planting trees strategically to provide shade to your roof to help reduce heat exposure. Just make sure there aren’t overhanging branches that could fall and damage the roof.

5. Depending on what type of roof you have, consider having protective coatings or sealants applied. These can help protect the roof from UV radiation and extend its lifespan (and help reduce the property’s energy consumption, too).

6. Speaking of reducing energy consumption, properly-insulated attic or roof space can help reduce the heat transfer to your living space, allowing your A/C unit to relax a little.

7. Ensure your roof has adequate ventilation to allow hot air to escape rather than becoming trapped and building up, ultimately helping to regulate temperature and reducing the risk of heat-related damage.

Keep in mind that the specific actions you should take may depend on the type of roofing material you have. Consult with a roofing professional for guidance tailored to your situation.

AKVM’s experienced team of professionals is standing by to help you take care of your Florida roof. Whether you have a residential or commercial property, we install, repair and maintain all types of roofing materials. Our goal is to take great care of our clients, so we’ll never cut corners, and we’ll always strive to provide you with the best possible experience. Contact us today for a free, no obligation inspection and quote.