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Denver Roofers Explain Signs of a Sun Damaged Roof


April 17, 2019

Denver weather can be whacky, but one thing is for sure: we get a lot of sun each year. Though those bright and clear days let us take advantage of everything Colorado has to offer, they also wreak havoc on your roof. That’s right…your roof can get sun damaged just like your skin. But since your roof doesn’t turn bright red with sunburn after spending too much time under UV rays, how can you tell? Watch for these tell-tale signs of roof damage and call your Denver roofing company immediately.

Warped Shingles
Believe it or not, shingles don’t love heat. They may be made of asphalt and able to withstand the elements, but they can and will start to warp when exposed to too much sun. Take a look at your roof. Do you see any shingles that are bubbling up or curling along the edges? If you do, your roof likely has sun damage and needs to be repaired. Remember, small numbers of curling shingles might not seem like a huge issue, but the longer they sit, the more vulnerable your roof becomes. 

Crumbling Materials
The constant exposure to UV rays causes your shingles to start breaking down. This process can take anywhere from a few months (with low-quality shingles) to several years with high-quality well-maintained shingles. As the shingles start breaking down, you’ll see granules collecting in the gutters and small flakes of shingles collecting in the yard. This happens because the sun makes the materials brittle. The only way to fix it is to replace the damaged shingles in question.

Visible Discoloration
When you first install new shingles, you have to pick a color that complements your home exterior. And those new shingles always look great, but it won’t always last. In fact, the sun can bleach the color from your shingles over time, leaving you with a roof that looks less pristine than you’d like. But is the damage purely cosmetic? No. The more faded the materials are, the more compromised the roof system is. Think of the color as a visible indicator of your shingles’ health. When it looks vibrant, the shingles are in good condition. When it’s faded or looks dirty, the shingles aren’t able to protect your home from the elements. 

Leaks After Summer Rain Storms
Leaks should always leave you rushing to schedule a roof repair appointment as soon as possible. But did you know that sun damage increases your risk of leaks? Even if you haven’t noticed discoloration sun damage weakens the materials enough to allow leaks to form after summer storms. If you think your roof might be sun damaged, check the attic for leaks after every storm. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, call your roofer immediately. The sooner the leak is fixed, the better.

Sun damage is a serious roofing issue for all Colorado homeowners. Stay on top of the damage by scheduling regular inspections and maintenance appointments with your trusted contractor. We’ll keep your roof in good condition for many years to come.