Of all the factors affecting the life of a home’s roof, weather is the most prevalent. Weather is always around and is always doing its thing. Even pleasant, sunny weather that is the norm in Orlando can, over time, cause damage to roofing materials. While some of the following weather phenomena will probably never be an issue for Orlando-area home owners, they’re still worth thinking about.
Windstorms
Strong winds can cause damage to shingles, tiles, or roofing materials. High winds can lift and displace roofing components, leading to leaks and structural damage.
Rain and Water Damage
Heavy winds are often accompanied by equally heavy rain. Prolonged exposure to heavy rain can result in water seeping under roofing materials, causing leaks, rot, and damage to the roof’s structure.
Hailstorms
Storms that bring heavy rain can also include hail. Hail can dent or crack roofing materials, especially asphalt shingles. It can also cause granule loss, reducing the roof’s effectiveness in protecting against water infiltration.
Lightning Strikes
While relatively rare, lightning can cause fires and structural damage to a roof if it strikes a building directly or if it causes electrical surges that damage electronic systems.
Tornadoes and Hurricanes
During hurricane season, the thought of a hurricane making landfall near Orlando is never far from area homeowners. These powerful weather events can cause severe roof damage due to the combination of high winds, flying debris, and pressure differentials.
Extreme Heat
Sustained exposure to high temperatures and UV radiation can degrade roofing materials over time, leading to cracking, blistering, and reduced lifespan.
Heavy Snow and Ice
While not an issue for Florida residents, homeowners in northern states must consider snow. Accumulation of snow and ice on the roof can add significant weight, leading to roof collapse in extreme cases. Additionally, the freeze-thaw cycle can cause roofing materials to expand and contract, leading to damage over time.
Freezing Temperatures
For northern homeowners, snow need not be heavy to damage a roof. In colder climates, freezing temperatures can cause ice dams to form on the roof’s edges, leading to water backups and potential leaks.
Wildfires
If a wildfire spreads to residential areas, the intense heat and flames can damage or destroy roofs.
Contact Us
Proper roof maintenance, regular inspections, and choosing durable roofing materials designed to withstand weather conditions in Orlando can help minimize the risk of damage from these weather phenomena. If any of these weather phenomena have damaged your home’s roof, contact us at JA Edwards of America. We can assess the damage and offer the best advice for completing your roof repairs or replacements.