How Summer Heat Impacts a Commercial Roof

Your commercial roof has escaped the winter temperatures and spring hail, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe from summer heat damage. For commercial roofs, summer can bring problems due to extreme heat and high humidity which places strain on its structure and materials. Heat damage can be hard to identify, but to prevent long-term problems, it’s important to perform inspections during the summer and to have a professional make regular evaluations.

Can Your Roof Get a Sunburn?

Thankfully it will not get a sunburn like you, but that materials that cover your commercial roof are susceptible to negative impacts from exposure to sunlight over time. UV light from the sun will degrade materials over time. Asphalt and tar are particularly susceptible to UV radiation, which slowly alters the chemical make-up of these petroleum-based materials. During this breakdown, some of the oily moisture evaporate, and the resulting material becomes more brittle and prone to cracking and tearing – which can lead to energy inefficiency and water leaks.

It’s Getting Hot Up There!

Have you ever been on top of a commercial roof on a hot summer day? If so, you know that it’s very hot up there! Some roofs are engineered to better withstand the heat but sustained high temperatures can result in shortening the life of your roof. Some areas of concern include heat expansion, pressure on fasteners and seams, moisture build-up, warping and cracking.

What Can You Do?

There are some things you can do to help mitigate commercial roofing damage that might come because of summer heat and sun exposure such as annual inspections, adding ventilation, adding a protective heat-resistance coating or hiring a facility services management company that specializes in repair and maintenance or preventative maintenance, such as System4.

Partner With System4

System4 Facility Services Management is an industry leader in commercial cleaning, disinfecting and repair and maintenance. With over 65 locations across the United States dedicated to providing top-notch customer service for services such as commercial cleaning, deep cleaning, emergency repairs, roof repairs, HVAC repairs, plumbing, electrical and more. System4 is the only facility services partner you will need because we’re your one-point of contact for all facility service needs. Contact System4 today to learn more about customized facility service management solutions that fit the unique needs of your business.