Colorado weather is finicky. But never more than this year, when a summer snow storm followed a string of 90-degree temperatures. During the night temperatures plunged, bringing three to six inches of snow in the Denver area.
It’s all together possible to witness rain, hail, snow, ice, wind, and sun in a twenty-four-hour period. We can hide indoors during extreme weather, but our roof withstands and protects our home, during these extreme weather events. Some of these conditions can impact the roof in several ways, and shorten the life of the shingles. So, blistering heat and sub-zero temperatures eventually take their toll.
Colorado Sun
Colorado’s atmosphere filters fewer ultraviolet rays so your roof soaks up more of those UV rays that can deteriorate the shingles faster than those at sea level. Even sun resistant shingles are ultimately affected by constant exposure. Extreme heat can cause roofing materials to expand and shrink, leading to damage. Ultraviolet radiation and thermal expansion are related and work together to break down asphalt shingles. This combination of weather extremes that contract and expands affect commercial roofs negatively as well.
Lack of humidity in Colorado, when coupled with the sun’s effects, can accelerate the decay of asphalt shingles. So, sun and humidity work hand in hand, weakening the integrity of the shingle.
Pounding Hail
Hail really beats up roofs in Colorado. Pounding hail will cause the granules on asphalt shingles to wear down, exposing the area underneath. Functional damage to the composition roof shingles is defined as punctures, tears, or fractures, with corresponding indentation of the shingle mat. These conditions result in reduction of the water shedding capability that shortens the expected long-term life of the roofing material. Shingles that make up the roof ridges, or unsupported shingles, such as those at ridge vents and roof rakes and edges, are particularly vulnerable to hailstone damage.
Granule loss is normal to the life of a shingle. It begins during the manufacturing and packaging, and installation of shingles, and continues as part of the weathering process. The predictable weathering process includes granule loss as a result of normal expansion and contraction from changes in temperature, significant rainfall events, foot traffic and manufacturing defects.
If hail storms worry you as a homeowner, consider that we deal with the newest technology, F-Wave REVIA™ premium synthetic roofing shingles, that come with a class 4 hail warranty. They are rated up to 130-mph wind speeds with a Class A fire rating. So if you are considering replacing your shingles this year, get more out of your investment with the new F-Wave REVIA™ premium synthetic roofing shingle.
Summer Storm Extremes
Sudden extreme storms which can generate 60 mile per hour winds affect both the Front Range and Eastern Plains. These damaging wind events can cause shingle damage that is not always visible, so if you feel your roof took a hit, call your local roofing company for a roof inspection. Replacing some loosened damaged shingles is a cost-effective solution that will prevent further issues down the road.
Talk Snow and Ice
Weight of snow is an issue along the Front Range, where heavy accumulations can adversely affect the roof, the gutters, and the home itself. Correctly pitched roofs can accommodate and will usually shed most of wet or heavy snow in the high country, where normally there is high accumulation.
Warmer winter days, usually patiently awaited, are great for melting the driveway snow, but it also can seep water under the shingle and refreeze overnight, causing unseen damage. It is in your best interests to remove snow or ice build up along the edge of the roof and gutter area to allow run off and prevent an ice jam. Keeping drainage opened to prevent clogs is paramount in preserving the integrity of the entire system.
Wrap-Up
Essentially, the roof is the most vulnerable area of your home. Realistically, if properly installed, it will protect your house for years, from major weather events. This applies to commercial roofs also, which are best protected by a maintenance agreement to minimize the likelihood of major repairs or expense.
Colorado weather, even though we love it, can be destructive. They key is to continue to monitor and pay attention after major weather events, to protect our property. Priority Restoration, makes the promise that our customers will be 100% satisfied, and we work hard to keep our Colorado neighbors satisfied. We specialize in exterior storm damage restoration and new construction Including roofing, gutters, and more!