It’s obvious that we ask a lot from our roofs when we stop and think about it. Think about this: A roof must be outside all day, every day. After years of doing this, we expect it not only to protect us, our families and our belongings, but also to look amazing.
This is a lot to ask.
Florida roofs are subject to a particularly harsh climate. We don’t have the snowfalls and freeze/thaw cycles that northern roofs experience. Roofs here are subject to the blazing sun, tropical downpours, hurricane winds and extreme humidity.
Additionally, any one of these can cause roof damage, resulting in costly repairs.
Our beautiful sun is the main reason why people travel to Florida. However, the same sun can cause damage to any roof. The sun’s ultraviolet radiation, which is responsible for every sunburn, can also cause asphalt- and plastic-based products to deteriorate over time. Concrete tile is not immune to the sun’s ravages. Over time, UV exposure can cause concrete tile to lose its color. Shingle roofs are more vulnerable to UV radiation than older ones. Sun exposure over years can make shingles thin and brittle, making them more vulnerable to weather elements.
According to testing, roofs can reach temperatures close to 200° when the Florida sun is directly overhead during the summer. A sudden downpour can quickly cool the roof to room temperature within seconds. This cycle can be repeated many times per month, sometimes even twice or three times in one day.
This can be very stressful for every part of your roof. Florida roofs are also susceptible to constant extreme humidity. Florida roofs are surrounded by water, blessed with many swamps and lakes. However, the constant moisture can cause problems for even the best-applied seams.
This moisture can lead to the growth of mildew, moss, and algae. These growths are not only unsightly but can also trap moisture, which can lead to rot and deterioration.
Wind is another concern, especially when it comes to the hurricanes and tropical storms that batter Florida. Wind can blow strong enough to reach beneath tiles, shingles or other roofing components. Blind luck is the only thing that can slow down the destruction of the entire roofing system once these roof components have been compromised.
Most roofs are constructed to stop rain from falling vertically or almost so. Wind-driven rain can reach roofs not only from the top but also from the sides and below, in some cases. As you can see, water intrusion into your home or workplace can lead to many problems.
Florida’s abundance of coastline presents another problem for homes and businesses. Salt can corrode certain metal flashings, and other roof elements, causing premature leaks and other roof component failures. Even buildings that are far from the coast can be affected by salt air corrosion due to storms and sea spray that sometimes reaches miles inland.
Old Time Roofing has years of experience in Florida roofing and is qualified to inspect your roof and ensure it provides the protection and beauty that you expect. Old Time Roofing is the best roofer you can trust.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing which is the premier roofing contractors in Clearwater FL! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.