As the temperatures rise during the summer season in Reno, Nevada, your roof will become exposed to high temperatures and UV rays each day. The roofing materials can suffer from wear and tear if the structure isn’t prepped correctly for the weather changes. If you want to reduce the risk of damage and premature wear and tear, there are a few tips to follow as a homeowner.
1. Ventilate the Attic
One of the best ways to keep your roofing materials cool in high temperatures is to ventilate the attic. Keep cool air circulating by installing fans and vents, which will influence the temperature of your asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or metal panels. Installing insulation in the attic will also make it easier to control the temperature in the building and will prevent heat from transferring through the roof.
2. Schedule an Inspection
Hire a local roofer from a company like Joe’s Roofing to perform an inspection on the roof to determine if any roofing repairs are needed. They’ll look for missing shingles where the roof deck may be exposed, which can quickly lead to leaks. The flashing will also be examined and will need to be replaced if it shows signs of rust or has lifted off of the roof. An inspection is one of the most effective ways to prevent leaks from developing during summer hurricanes.
3. Clean the Gutters
During the winter and spring season, a significant amount of leaves and debris may have accumulated in the rain gutters. Now is the time to clean them out to ensure water can drain properly off of the roof. This will also prevent critters and insects from feeding off of the debris, which can lead to infestations and damage to the roofing materials.
4. Remove Moss
Inspect the different areas of the roof to look for areas where moss may be present. Moss can cause a lot of damage to the asphalt shingles when it’s not removed in a timely manner. Avoid pressure washing it, which can lead to even more severe damage. Instead, hire a professional to gently remove it with a moss-specific cleaner that is rated by the EPA.
5. Inspect the Skylights
Take a look at the skylights to ensure they’re secure and sealed properly. This is a common area where leaks can form, making it necessary to hose off the feature to determine if any moisture seeps into the building. There also shouldn’t be any cracks present on the windows of the skylight.
If you want to learn more about how you can prepare your roof for the summer season, reach out to our team at Joe’s Roofing. We’re here to answer your questions and assist you in maintaining your roof.