No matter where you live in America, the climate changes from day to day. You can get sprinkles of rain, heavy snows and glaring sunshine all within the same month. And don’t forget about winds. Every house or business needs roofing that can withstand the most extreme weather as well as the frequent changes each season. Knowing your climate and how it affects roofing systems will help you to choose the right roofing system for your home or office.
How Climate Affects Your Roofing Choice?
While rain and snow are the biggest troubles for roofing, sunshine and humidity can affect your roof too. The heat can cause cracks which allow moisture in and when the heat is excessive, cracking can be extensive and dangerous. Winter months that bring lots of rain are worrisome. Pooled water is the number one cause for leaking and interior water damage. Before picking your roof, there are a few things about the weather you should remember.
- Precipitation: Precipitation comes in the form of hail, rain, sleet and snow and it can hit at any time, even in the so-called “sunshine” states. While sloped roofing facilitates water flow, flat roofing needs to be able to effectively detour water away. In the past, tar and gravel systems were used but recent advances have caused roofing contractors to favor other roof types. Not only is the method expensive and noisy, but the risks from toxic fumes and potential burns are too great. Single-ply membranes are now the preferred option for flat roofing because of their greater flexibility and durability.
- High Winds: Chicago may be known as the “Windy City” but plenty of other cities get frequent winds. Some areas experience winds as fast as 12.5 miles per hour and they can seriously damage your roof. By blowing underneath roofing and lifting away materials completely, the membranes and interior are exposed. This causes bubbles and wrinkles to form which allow water to seep in and create mold or rot. You can keep a close eye on wind damage by checking the roof edges, where it is more likely to occur. You can also choose fully adhered roofing which is securely tacked all around, making it ideal for windy areas.
Even though the sun damages roofing, it is not the main weather concern when it comes to choosing roof systems. If you are looking for a roof that lasts through all the seasons, PVC is recommended. This material is durable enough for wind, rain, sun and snow and lasts up to 30 years. Call us today to discuss your roofing options and we will find the right roof for your building and climate.
