Practical Tips for Protecting Your Roof Against Extreme Weather

Sep 14, 2023

Extreme weather is one of the factors that can damage buildings in various ways, especially the roof. This is because the roof is the most exposed part, enduring harsh elements like strong winds, rain, storms, heat, and so on. 

Imagine the consequences if the roof doesn't receive extra care. Moreover, continuous exposure to extreme weather can affect the structural integrity of the entire house. 

To avoid this, there are various ways to ensure that the roof remains sturdy and durable. Here's the information!

The Effects of Extreme Weather on Your House's Roof and How to Safeguard It

Indonesia's unpredictable weather patterns, characterized by extreme conditions, can lead to rapid deterioration of house roofs, especially when not adequately maintained. Several weather conditions that can severely impact roofs include: 

  • Heavy Rainfall

Intense downpours have the potential to harm roofs in various ways, particularly when the roof's drainage system is insufficient.  

Excessive rainfall can exacerbate the situation, causing water to accumulate like a pool or pond, ultimately resulting in leaks. 

  • Hailstorms

While infrequent, certain regions in Indonesia have experienced hailstorms, including Surabaya, Trenggalek, Yogyakarta, Bogor, and Jakarta. 

This type of extreme weather can potentially damage house roofs, particularly when hailstones are substantial. For instance, they can create cracks and dents on the roof's surface, leading to leaks. 

Furthermore, hail can also cause harm to roof shingles, diminishing their lifespan and effectiveness. 

  • Strong Winds

In addition to heavy rainfall and hailstorms, strong winds represent another condition capable of causing severe damage to roofs. 

This is especially true for older or poorly-maintained roofs. During episodes of strong winds, roofing materials such as shingles or tiles may shift or even become dislodged. 

In addition to these three conditions, fallen tree branches, debris, and scattered rubble on the roof further exacerbate roof damage.

To prevent increasingly severe damage, you can employ several methods to provide protection for your house roof, including: 

  • Determine the Roof's Age

Before beginning maintenance, it's essential to know when your house's roof was last replaced. Generally, roofs are expected to last between 10 to 20 years. 

Therefore, it's not surprising if the roof starts causing issues towards the end of its lifespan. Ensure this part is always in good condition and protected from all types of damage.

  • Conduct Regular Inspections 

Don't forget to establish a schedule for periodic roof inspections, such as once a year or every few months. During extreme weather conditions, perform additional inspections as a precaution to detect leaks as early as possible. 

For instance, when there's sudden heavy rainfall, scorching heat, or strong winds that could potentially cause damage. 

During inspections, carefully observe whether any shingles or tiles have shifted, cracked, broken, or even gone missing, and promptly replace these sections. If you own a drone, make use of this tool to monitor the roof's condition without the need for a ladder. 

If you have a fear of heights, limited time, or face other constraints, there's a practical solution: hire a reputable roofing professional or inspector. 

They will thoroughly inspect all roof sections and identify any issues. In essence, regular inspections are essential for preserving the integrity of your house's roof. 

Pixabay

  • Inspect the Gutter System

Aside from the roof, gutters also play a vital role in shielding the house from leaks. Roofs are designed to divert or lower the flow of rainwater away from the house, while gutters are responsible for collecting and directing this water out of the house. 

Therefore, when you're cleaning debris from the roof, don't forget to examine the gutter system. 

Check for any obstructions like leaves, moss, or branches that might clog the gutters, and promptly clear them to ensure unobstructed drainage. It's recommended to perform this gutter system inspection and cleaning at least twice a year.

  • Remove Various Debris and Litter

Another method to safeguard the roof against extreme weather is by clearing away all scattered debris. This includes leaves, dried branches, and any other litter found on the roof. 

Inspecting and cleaning this area not only protects the house from potential flooding but also saves on expenses. 

Using a ladder, gloves, a shovel, and a bag for debris removal is a more economical approach compared to having to repair various parts of the house like the roof, gutters, ceiling, and foundation. 

Furthermore, you can employ a broom, leaf blower, or a low-pressure hose for cleaning the roof's surface. However, it's important to avoid high-pressure hose sprays as they may displace shingles or tiles.  

  • Eliminating Moss

In certain areas of the roof that are shaded or prone to dampness, often due to rainwater accumulation, moss and fungi can occasionally emerge. While these are not harmful, their presence can occasionally mar the appearance of the roof. 

Additionally, the existence of moss can indicate elevated moisture levels in the area, potentially leading to roof damage. 

To eradicate moss and fungi, you can utilize a mixture of water and bleach in equal proportions. 

Once you've successfully removed the moss and fungi, you can affix metal sheets with copper or zinc coatings on the upper side of the roof, covering both sides of the house. Rainwater coming into contact with these metal sheets will transport metal nanoparticles to the underside of the roof. 

These substances are effective in preventing the proliferation of fungi, algae, moss, and various other plant growth on the roof. 

  • Trimming Tree Branches 

While having a cool and shaded home due to lush trees is undoubtedly appealing, it's advisable to trim back branches, twigs, or tree trunks that extend over the roof. 

These tree branches have the potential to cause damage to the roof's shingles. Additionally, they can serve as entry points for rodents or other creatures that may chew on the roof of the house. 

Therefore, it's wise to promptly trim any overhanging branches and twigs near the roof. This approach not only maintains a cleaner appearance on the roof but also prevents the development of moss, fungi, and algae.

  • Attic Ventilation

Another approach to shield your home's roof from extreme weather conditions involves properly introducing ventilation in the attic. 

This serves the purpose of promoting effective air circulation, reducing heat accumulation during dry seasons, and averting moisture-related concerns, especially in the rainy season.  

  • Enhanced Roof Protection

The final measure entails providing enhanced protection to safeguard the roof of your home from potential harm. You can achieve this by placing plastic sheets between the rafters and the roofing material, whether shingles or tiles. 

Additionally, you can apply a weather-resistant protective layer to the roof, using materials designed to prevent leaks.

For optimal outcomes, opt for a flexible, durable, all-weather-resistant protective layer, and consider reapplication or replacement at intervals of no more than six months. 

In conclusion, these various methods should be implemented to provide protection for your roof against challenging and rapidly changing weather conditions. 

At the very least, by applying these techniques, you can reduce the potential damage to your home's roof caused by extreme weather conditions. 

References

https://www.kompas.com/homey/read/2021/05/22/162251076/5-cara-melindungi-atap-rumah-dari-kerusakan-akibat-cuaca?page=all 

https://m.caping.co.id/news/detail/11893190 

https://www-linkedin-com.translate.goog/pulse/5-simple-ways-protect-integrity-your-roof-procraft-exteriors?_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=id&_x_tr_hl=id&_x_tr_pto=tc

https://russellroofing-com.translate.goog/the-impact-of-extreme-weather-on-your-roof-and-how-to-protect-it/?_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=id&_x_tr_hl=id&_x_tr_pto=tc  

https://www.pinhome.id/blog/tips-melindungi-rumah-dari-cuaca-ekstream/

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