4 Common Summer Roof Problems

Every season we go through here in the Ottawa area brings with it different challenges for your roof. Autumn’s winds throw twigs and other debris. Winter features snow and ice dams. And spring can be a series of freeze/thaw cycles. 

After reading that roster of issues, you might think that summer would offer a bit of a break for your busy roof. But, if anything, there are as many or more summer roof problems as there are in any other season.  

Keep a Lookout for These Common Roof Problems this Summer

Damage to your roof may be as costly as damage to any other part of your home. Even a small leak can lead to serious issues with the structural integrity of your home. And water damage to your belongings.

Regularly check your roof this summer—with feet planted safely on the ground, not on the roof—for signs of the following issues. 

1. Cracked Shingles
   

   Asphalt shingles can crack at any time. But summer’s heat and UV rays can dry out shingles and cause them to crack sooner than later. Look for warped cracked or missing shingles, especially in areas of your roof that get more sun exposure than others.

    

2. Moss or Algae Growth
   

   This one might be tough to spot, depending on the colour of your roofing shingles and the type of moss or algae growth that happens. Generally speaking, look for vertical streaks of discolouration across your roofing shingles, especially earlier in the summer. Left untreated, moss and algae growth can trap moisture against your shingles which can damage them over time.

    

3. Dry Rot & Mold in Your Attic
   

   That’s right, you can check for roof damage from inside your home too. Poor ventilation in your attic can cause a build-up of moisture and humidity.  In turn, that moisture damage can lead to dry rot and mold growth on the wooden structure that supports the roof.
   
   Making sure your roof has proper ventilation will eliminate the problem.

    

4. Storm Damage
   

   We’ve been getting some major summer storms in the Ottawa Valley in recent years. High winds and rain can cause shingles to blow off your roof and water to leak into the roof. Once it’s safe to go outside after a storm, be sure to check your roof for damage and inside your attic for leaks.

If you’re planning to keep a closer eye on your roof this summer, check out our article “4 Signs That it’s Time to Replace Your Roof”.