Protect Your Home from The Intense Summer Heat

As homeowners across the south know all too well, the extreme heat and humidity of the summer months can take a toll on the exterior of any home. To avoid costly damage down the line, here are some easy steps you can take to protect the portions of your home that are easily damaged by the summer heat.

ROOF AND SHINGLE PROTECTION

The roof absorbs most of the heat and sunlight of the summer months, so it’s no surprise that it is one of the first surfaces to show damage. What may surprise homeowners is the many ways that heat can cause damage to the roof. Some of the issues that can arise from your roof due to extreme heat may include:

• a shortened lifespan of the roof
• cracks and dry patches
• shingle bleaching
• peaks and valley damage

The best way to prevent serious damage to the roof is to be vigilant about monitoring the surface and call a professional to look into any issues you may notice. If you see discolored patches, broken pieces of shingles, or notice poor ventilation within the attic, it is time to contact a roofing professional to do an annual checkup.

EXTERIOR PAINT

The quality of the exterior paint you use can make a big difference in how well it resists damage from the sun, so choose a quality finish that is designed for outdoor surfaces. Monitor the exterior paint on the outside of the areas that contain the most moisture in the home, such as kitchens and bathrooms. The extra humidity in these areas seep into the interior wall surface and can make the paint on the outside peel faster than in other parts of the home. To prevent this, make sure there is adequate ventilation in small, humid spaces like bathrooms and laundry rooms.

DECKS AND PATIOS

If you have a wooden deck or patio that get used for entertaining in the summer, protecting it against the sun’s rays may not have crossed your mind. But wood is one of the materials that can easily be damaged due to sun exposure. One of the easiest things you can do to extend the lifespan of the wood is sealing it each year with a coating that protects against sun and rain. This will prevent warping and aging of the wood. Using a UV resistant seal will give you the best results, as it is designed to block the most harmful rays from reaching the surface of the wood.

If the heat and humidity of the summer months cause damage to the exterior of your home, your homeowner’s insurance policy may cover the cost of repairs. To get expert help and advice, contact Five Star Claims Adjusting before you file your claim. Our qualified adjusters can guide you through the process of filing a claim and getting it approved.