As the temperatures start to rise, you can feel how the heat takes a toll on your body. Your commercial roof also feels the effects of the Arizona heat and this extreme heat can cause significant damage to the roofing material. When paired with the high winds and rain from a monsoon, your commercial roof could be one strong wind gust away from a disaster.
If you are a commercial property owner or manager, it is essential for you to understand the effects of heat on your roof. Craven Construction has been replacing and repairing commercial roofs that have suffered heat damage in the East Valley for over 20 years. Below are the top issues we see over and over again with commercial roofs.
Thermal Expansion & Contraction
Throughout the day, temperatures rise and fall. As the temperatures rise, your commercial roofing material will expand. Once it starts to cool down a little bit, they will contract. This fluctuation in temperature throughout the day will cause a fluctuation within your roofing material. This is known as thermal shock.
If a commercial roof suffers thermal shock, it puts a strain on the roofing material. This can cause the material to become brittle and leave it vulnerable to further damage. Signs of thermal damage will vary based on your specific material, but we frequently see curbed flashing, missing fasteners, and punctures. Talk with your local roofer if you are concerned about thermal expansion and contraction within your commercial roofing system.
Expedited Aging
High temperatures can accelerate the aging process of your commercial roof. Constantly being exposed to UV rays from the sun, the materials will start to deteriorate and break down, sometimes without you even knowing. When these materials are left untouched, unrepaired, or not replaced, your commercial roof can age quickly.
Replacing a commercial roof prematurely is not something any business owner or property manager wants to do. If you are concerned abuot your roof absorbing UV rays and being effected by the heat, contact your local roofing company. They will be able to assess your specific roof and offer their greatest recommendation.
Cracking
Think about your skin. When outside in the heat and with the sun beating down on it, it will start to dry out. Luckily, as humans, we have access to lotion! Your commercial roof is not so lucky and cracking can cause significant issues with it. When the roofing material because dry, it will also become brittle. This will lead to crackinng and fissures within the roofing material and system.
If you see crackinng on your commercial roof, you will want to consult your roofing contractor immediately. Cracks that are left unrepaired will eventually let moisture into the roofing system and you may experience a leak inside the building.
Blistering
Depending on your roofing material, the heat can cause blistering on your commercial roof. Blisters are caused when the adhesion under the roofing material becomes loose, leaving a pocket of air or water to form. To prevent blisters from forming on your roof, a proper maintenance plan is necessary.
Blisters can weaken the roof’s structure, leading to significant damage! Be sure too discuss yur options with your commercial roofing contractor to determine what is best for your roof and removing the blisters.
Three Ways to Prevent Heat Damage
The best way to deal with the heat and protecting your Arizona commercial roof from damage is to prevent it. Below are three things you can do to help protect your roof.
- Coatings – There are special UV protective coatings that can be added on top of your roofing material to shield it. Some coatings will also offer additional water resistance and impact protection.
- Ventilation – Proper ventilation is essential for a successful roofing system, especially in an area that sees extreme heat. Offering an escape for the heat that is absorbed will help prevent some issues from forming within your commercial roofing system.
- Annual Maintenance – Hiring a professional roofer to complete a full maintenance inspection on a regular basis can help discover potential areas of concern and offer repair before significant damage is done.
If you are in the East Valley and in need of a professional commercial roofer, contact Craven Construction today! Our team is highly skilled and trained to handle roofs of any material and size. Call our office to schedule your FREE estimate today!
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.