Living in Florida, you are no stranger to humidity, and you know it takes a toll on everything from your outdoor furniture to your bikes to your car. Your roof is not immune to the humidity either. Humidity can weaken materials, leading to leaks, and it can cause and encourage the growth of mold and mildew. Because of the impact humidity has on your roof, it is important to prevent these issues if possible and fix them quickly when they arise.
Humidity is uncontrollable and pretty relentless here in Florida. It has benefits like how beautiful and green our state is and how naturally hydrated our skin is! But we all know it is hard on homes and belongings and is a major cause of rust. Mold and mildew love humidity and should be prevented, as they cause damage and even health issues. Professional roofing services, like Seal Tight Roofing Experts, can help maintain roof health and address problems efficiently and quickly.
How Humidity Affects Roofing in Florida
Florida experiences frequent rain and has a long rainy season. Late spring and summer are typically known for afternoon thunderstorms. The average rainfall in Florida is close to 54 inches. To put it in perspective, that’s 4.5 feet of rain each year! The average annual humidity in Florida hovers around 75%. Moisture buildup in roofing materials is damaging. Moisture can occur when the warm air hits a cool roof, causing condensation. Moisture is never a friend to your roof. It can impact the integrity and longevity of your roof.
Common Roofing Problems Caused by Humidity
Mold and Mildew Growth
Mold and mildew require moisture to grow. Florida’s humidity provides the perfect source for mold and mildew growth and reproduction. Mold and mildew can cause a breakdown in your roofing materials, like shingles. This can lead to leaks. While mold and mildew may not seem like a huge roofing issue, they can be the beginning of big problems. Shady areas on your roof are a good spot to look for mold and mildew growth, as they tend to stay damp longer than areas exposed to the sun. Clogged gutters or an accumulation of organic debris, like leaves on the roof, also provide safe havens for mold and mildew to thrive. Mold and mildew can be identified by discoloration on your roof – black, green, or gray areas.
Algae Stains and Black Streaks
Algae differs from mold or mildew as it thrives with sunlight, so it will appear on different areas of your roof. Algae can occur in varying colors, but on roofs, it often appears as dark streaks. It may also have a green, plant-like appearance. Not only does it make your roof look bad, but it can hold in moisture, causing damage.
Roof Material Deterioration
Moisture aids in the breakdown of shingles, along with other roofing materials, such as the underlayment. If your shingles are curling or cracked, your roof is experiencing deterioration. If your roof has soft spots, that is another sign of moisture damage. Timely repairs matter because small roof issues can quickly grow into major issues. A small leak quickly repaired will save you time and money as opposed to procrastinating and needing a costly large repair or a new roof.
Wood Rot and Attic Damage
If moisture finds its way into the roof trusses, you can develop mold or mildew in your attic. This can lead to wood rot which will make your roof repair a more extensive job. Not only can this cause structural damage that is dangerous for you, your family, and your house, but it can also lead to pest infestations which will be yet another issue for you to address.
How to Prevent Humidity-Related Roofing Problems
We think, by now, that you understand that moisture is the enemy when it comes to the health and longevity of your roof. But what are you supposed to do? You live in Florida, after all. Humidity is inevitable, just like the afternoon thunderstorms.
Regular Roof Inspections and Maintenance
We highly recommend annual roof inspections to address any issues that arise in a timely manner. We do not recommend that you get on your roof to do your own inspection, as we possess safety equipment that the average homeowner does not own. You can look for signs like discoloration, curling shingles, or missing shingles. If you notice any of these, don’t wait until it’s time for your inspection. Give us a call right away.
Proper Ventilation and Attic Insulation
Believe it or not, proper ventilation and attic insulation can help prevent moisture buildup. Make sure you have proper intake and exhaust vents. You may even want to have an attic fan installed. If your home has old insulation, we recommend having it replaced. There are multiple effective options. One example is spray-foam insulation which is moisture-resistant.
Gutter Maintenance and Water Drainage
As previously mentioned, clogged gutters provide a perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. We recommend cleaning your gutters as often as needed, but at least twice a year. You can do it yourself or hire someone. You can also install gutter guard systems that help reduce debris in your gutters. Your gutters and downspouts should provide proper water drainage, so water is carried away from your home, not accumulating near your roof.
Summary
Humidity and rainfall can wreak havoc on your roof, causing the growth of mold, mildew, and algae. This can lead to wood rot and the deterioration of your roofing materials, as well as pest infestations. Such damage can be prevented through regular roof inspections, proper ventilation and insulation, and semi-annual gutter maintenance. If you take care of your roof, it will take care of your home.
Seal Tight Roofing Experts offers annual inspections, roof repairs, and roof replacements for both residential and commercial buildings. Serving East Central Florida for over 25 years, we are well-versed in humidity-related roof issues. Whether it’s an inspection to prevent humidity damage or a roof replacement because humidity won the battle, we are here for all your roofing needs!