How weather impacts your roof and siding: Tips for maintenance and repair

Your home faces a constant battle against the elements, in its tireless journey to keep you and your family safe and comforted in every season. From the scorching sun to the fury of storms, your roof and siding are the first lines of defense, silently taking a beating year-round. Here’s a breakdown of how common weather conditions impact these crucial exterior components, along with maintenance tips to keep them protected.

Shield your home year-round: Essential roof & siding maintenance for every season

*Hot summers 

Often the silent culprit, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays relentlessly attack your roof and siding, even on seemingly harmless cloudy days. Over time, this exposure can lead to:

  • Fading: The vibrant colors of your roof shingles and siding slowly lose their luster, becoming dull and lifeless.
  • Cracking: UV rays weaken materials, making them more susceptible to developing cracks and breaking under stress.
  • Warping: Heat from the sun can cause certain siding materials, like vinyl, to warp or buckle.

Roof & siding maintenance tips in summer

  • Roof: Consider reflective roof coatings or metal roofing that excels at deflecting UV rays.
  • Siding: Choose siding with a high UV resistance rating. For existing siding, a fresh coat of paint with UV inhibitors can offer some protection.

*Damp rainy season 

Rain and excessive moisture pose a significant threat to both roof and siding. Here’s how:

  • Roof leaks: Pooling water or clogged gutters can lead to leaks, damaging the roof’s underlayment and allowing water to intrude into your home.
  • Mold and mildew growth: Moisture trapped between siding and walls creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, compromising your home’s structural integrity and potentially posing health risks.

Roof & siding maintenance tips in rain season

  • Roof: 

Schedule annual inspections: This allows qualified roofing contractors to identify and address potential problems early on, preventing minor issues from becoming major headaches.

Ensure proper drainage: Keep your gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and pool around your roof, potentially leading to leaks. Consider hiring gutter installation contractors to perform a professional gutter work if needed.

  • Siding:

Maintain air circulation: Keep a clear space of at least 4-6 inches between your siding and landscaping. This promotes airflow and helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.

Inspect for water infiltration: Regularly inspect your siding for cracks, loose panels, or any signs of water damage. These weaknesses can allow water to seep behind the siding and compromise your home’s structural integrity. If you discover any issues, consider contacting a qualified roofing and siding contractor for repairs.

*Chilly winter

While we often think of rain as the primary culprit for roof damage, high winds, especially during winter storms, can be equally destructive. Here’s how winter winds can wreak havoc on your roof:

  • Roof Shingles: Loose shingles can be ripped off, exposing the underlayment and increasing the risk of leaks.
  • Siding Panels: Strong winds can detach or warp siding panels, compromising their protective abilities.

Roof & siding maintenance tips in winters

  • Roof:  Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense. Ensure proper installation with enough nails to prevent them from becoming loose and vulnerable. Consider scheduling a pre-winter inspection by a qualified shingle roofing installation company to identify any potential issues with shingle attachment.
  • Siding: Choose siding materials known for their wind resistance. Fiber cement and metal siding are excellent options for withstanding the blustery conditions that often accompany winter storms. These materials are less likely to crack, warp, or detach under heavy winds, protecting your home’s structural integrity.

*Hail storms

While less frequent, a hailstorm can wreak havoc on your roof and siding:

  • Roof: Hailstones can dent, crack, or even puncture roofing materials, compromising their watertight integrity.
  • Siding: Hail can also cause visible dents, cracks, and even holes in siding depending on the size and intensity of the hailstorm.

Roof & siding maintenance in hail season

After a hailstorm, a thorough inspection by a qualified professional is crucial. They can assess the damage and determine the need for repairs or replacement. Contact your insurance company to discuss coverage options.

Get a Free Quote from Home Improvement Experts: Roof, Siding, Decks, Bathroom.

Maintain your home with Hynes Construction’s Roof & Siding Services

Regular maintenance by qualified roofing and siding contractors can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof and siding. Hynes Construction, a reputed home improvement contractor with 50 years of exemplary service and success, eases your home maintenance worries with the following services: 

  • Roof maintenance services: These services may include cleaning, minor repairs, and preventative maintenance to reduce the risk of future problems.
  • Flat roof maintenance and repair: This service involves specific expertise and maintenance techniques that are required for flat roofs. 
  • Exterior home siding: We provide specific care and maintenance as per the nature of your siding material. 

Call us at 610-995-6309 or fill out our online form for a free consultation! Let’s discuss your needs and create a plan to keep your home safe and beautiful.

Looking for a Professional Roofing, Deck, and Siding Contractor in Ardmore?

Reach out to Hynes Construction at - 610-896-6388 Or Fill Contact Form

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *