How Does Heat Affect Your Commercial Roof?

A well-maintained commercial roof ensures the longevity and safety of your building in Baltimore. 

However, heat can significantly impact its performance, which leads to continuous repair of roofs in Baltimore commercial buildings. As the temperature rises, your roof is exposed to the harsh effects of heat, which leads to several problems. In fact, commercial roofs can absorb up to 80% of the sun’s heat, causing roof surfaces to reach temperatures as high as 180°F (82°C) on hot summer days. 

This highlights the fact that it is important to be prepared in advance so that you can note down the signs and prevent further damage in the future. 

Let’s discuss how heat affects the commercial roof.

Thermal Expansion and Contraction 

Roof materials expand due to continuous exposure to high temperatures.  When the materials cool, they contract. Over time, this continuous contraction and expansion causes the materials to crack, warp, or become weakened, ultimately leading to leaks and structural damage. 

UV Radiation Damage

The prolonged exposure to UV rays breaks down roof membranes and protective coatings. This causes them to become brittle, crack, blister, and fade in color. If not taken care of, the chemical bonds in roofing materials weaken, and the risk of leaks and water damage increases. 

Accelerated Aging and Wear

High temperatures accelerate the ageing process of roofing materials. Especially the older roos that may already be weakened are affected by wear and tear. Certain materials, such as asphalt shingles, can dry out, lose flexibility, become brittle, and crack. 

Moisture Issues and Humidity 

When heat combines with summer humidity, the moisture gets trapped under the membrane. This leads to: 

• Insulation damage
• Mold growth
• Structural deterioration 

Poor drainage and ponding water worsen the above problems and promote vegetation growth, which can further damage roof components. 

Increases Energy Cost

Commercial roofs that absorb a lot of heat (dark-colored roofs) can increase the internal temperature of the building. The HVAC system in the building has to work hard to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. This increase in cooling demand results in higher energy consumption and higher cooling costs. 

Condensation Issues

Condensation is a common but overlooked problem in commercial roofing. It happens when warm, moist air from inside the building comes into contact with a cooler surface. This results in causing water vapor to turn into liquid droplets, which mimic the signs of a roof leak. If this is ignored, it can lead to significant structural and health issues. 

Material Shrinkage

Heat can cause shrinkage in rubber and membrane roofing materials such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer). Over time, the high temperatures and sunlight cause the roof to contract and pull away from attachments like flashings and roof penetrations. This pulling creates gaps and tension that can lead to leaks and water infiltration. 

Conclusion 

Heat can impact the longevity and integrity of commercial roofs in Baltimore. The combination of thermal expansion, UV radiation, accelerated aging, and moisture issues can lead to costly repairs and increased energy consumption. 

So, it is crucial to monitor your roof for signs of heat-related damage proactively. 

However, some signs can’t be easily observed. So, it is essential to look for trusted roof repair contractors who can do this with precision and care.