In an area like Austin, TX you have to account for the climate when you're installing or replacing a roof. In fact, the reason you're replacing or repairing your roof could be due to climate factors.
Because a roof is a major investment, it's understandable that property owners want their roof's life expectancy to be as long as possible. The roofing material and quality of the installation truly matter in Austin where harsh climate conditions and extreme weather can occur.
The elements affect roofing materials in different ways, and in Austin there are a number of elements that could do damage. Luckily, with the right roof care you can counter the effects of the local climate.
Roofing materials are designed to handle high heat. It's high heat over a long period that can do damage to a roof. Baking in the heat day after day wears down the materials and can cause chemical changes within the material.
Plus, most roofing material lifespans are based on average climate conditions. If you live in an area like Austin where the heat rises well above the national average in summer, then you can't expect to max out the lifespan of a roof without some sort of preventative measures.
Many property owners are surprised to find that asphalt shingles don't handle the heat as well as metal roofs and clay tile roofs. Clay tiles are especially good at handling the heat. Tiles are created by baking clay in ovens, so baking in the sun is no problem.
Exposure to UV rays can significantly impact a roof's lifespan no matter where you live. But with around 300 days of sunshine a year, it's safe to say that UV rays can take years of a roof's life expectancy in Austin.
If you are preparing for roof replacement, you'll want to look into cool roofing options. These roof materials have a special coating for reflecting UV rays so that less damage is done and less heat is absorbed. The color of your roofing also makes a difference. Commercial roofing, metal roofs and asphalt roofs that are lighter in color will reflect rather than absorb UV rays.
There's a reason roofers stay busy in Austin - hail. This somewhat unique weather event is common in the "Hail Alley", a stretch down the middle of the U.S. from North Dakota to Texas.
Clay roof tiles and slate roofs hold up well against most hail. However, Central Texas has been known to get golf ball size hail, that can occasionally be even bigger. At a certain point, even roofing tiles can suffer hail damage.
Texas has a lot of wind turbines for a reason. It can get windy.
High winds regularly sweep through the Austin area. When the gusts get really strong wind uplift can become a concern. Strong winds can also pull up asphalt shingles and metal panels causing damage and exposing the materials underneath. Other parts of the roof system that can be damaged by wind are the gutters and flashing.
There's a lot of discussion about roofing issues in areas of high humidity since excess moisture buildup can be bad for a roof. In Austin, the humidity isn't too bad most of the year. What property owners have to watch out for more often is drought conditions.
Austin has gone through a number of drought periods and even more dry years that were close to drought conditions. During a period of drought, the air is drier and the humidity level is lower than normal.
A long drought period can dry out roofing materials, making them more brittle and prone to cracking. Cracked roofing materials make roof leaks more likely. Asphalt shingle roofs are among the most susceptible, but any material can be affected during prolonged periods of drought.
Roof maintenance goes a long way in extending a roof's life expectancy. That's why many property owners consider roof maintenance to be an investment rather than an expense. Every year you get out of your existing roof increases the value.
Regular roof maintenance will help you identify issues as soon as they start so that they can be addressed before damage is done. Preventative maintenance measures will help you avoid minor and major roof repairs, providing even more value for the property owner.
One benefit of proper maintenance that many people don't consider is it's an opportunity to consult with a roofing contractor. The maintenance appointment is your opportunity to ask questions about your roof and get expert opinions. Part of our job as roofing contractors is to stay up-to-date on all of the state regulations, newest materials and latest techniques so that we can help your roof can last longer.
LOA is ready to be your roofing contractor! We are experts when it comes to roofing in Austin. Our team can provide a free roof inspection and make customized recommendations on which roofing materials will offer the best value in terms of price and lifespan.
Give us a call or connect online to schedule a free roof inspection!
Dedicated to excellence, our Austin roofing company ensures quality in every project. Contact our skilled Central Texas roofers for a same-day, hassle-free inspection. Call +1 (512) 375-3654 to book your free inspection.