The Impact of Spring Weather on Shingle Roofs (And How to Fix It)

Think your roof finally gets a break after winter? Think again. Spring weather’s unique patterns—heavy rainfall, gusty winds, temperature swings, and humidity—can be unexpectedly harsh on shingle roofs, setting the stage for leaks, wear, and other types of damage.

If you want to steer clear of costly repairs, keep reading. This blog explores the exact impact of spring weather on shingle roofs and outlines the best professional solutions to address your roofing concerns.

How Spring Weather Affects Shingle Roofs

Here’s a breakdown of how spring can bring a storm of common roofing problems that can significantly impact your shingle roof.

Heavy Rain and Moisture Damage

Spring showers can seep into small cracks or gaps from missing shingles, gradually weakening the roof and leading to leaks if left unaddressed. The excess moisture from these rains can also cause mold, mildew, and rot in roof structures. 

Waterproofing can act as an essential barrier to combat the effects of severe weather conditions. It prevents water from penetrating vulnerable areas and reduces long-term damage.

High Winds and Loose Shingles

Strong spring winds may lift or tear shingles, exposing the vulnerable underlayers of your roof and allowing rainwater to seep in. Falling debris like branches can crack or puncture shingles, leading to water damage and weakened roof structure. 

To reduce these risks, regularly cleaning up debris, trimming nearby trees, and scheduling professional inspections are essential.

Temperature Fluctuations and Shingle Wear

The cold and warm cycle creates temperature fluctuations that cause shingles to expand during the day and contract at night. Over time, this weakens the material, leading to stress fractures or cracks. 

Cracks, expansion, and contraction can compromise the roof’s protective layer, making it more susceptible to water damage and other issues. Professional-grade roofing materials and proper maintenance can help endure seasonal temperature shifts with minimal wear. 

Algae and Moss Growth from Increased Humidity

Spring’s high humidity creates moisture in shaded or poorly ventilated roof areas, which moss and algae need to grow. The constant dampness encourages spores to grow, forming patches that trap water and weaken asphalt shingles.

Algae and moss can weaken the roof’s protective layer and cause deterioration. Choosing professional moss and algae treatments over DIY chemical solutions ensures effective removal and future prevention.

Spring Roof Maintenance Tips

Spring’s severe weather events can leave their mark, but you’re not helpless against them. By following these proper roof maintenance tips, you can ensure long-term protection for your home.

• Inspect for winter damage. Inspect your roof from the ground, focusing on loose, cracked, or missing shingles, gutter or flashing leaks, and signs of past ice dams.
• Clean and treat moss and algae growth. Professionals can apply preventative treatments to stop regrowth, ensuring effective results while preserving roof integrity.
• Check and reinforce roof flashing and seals. Inspect and reseal flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Rely on professional evaluation for proper sealing.
• Schedule a professional roof inspection. Hiring a roofing expert provides thorough assessments and eliminates the risks associated with DIY fixes, keeping your roof safe.

How to Repair Shingle Roof Damage After Spring Weather

Understanding the impact of spring weather on shingle roofs is crucial, but knowing how to fix the resulting damage is equally important. This section guides you through repairing common shingle issues.

Replace Loose or Missing Shingles

These are the typical steps to take when replacing loose or missing roof shingles:

• For a loose shingle: Gently lift the edges carefully, apply roofing cement underneath, and press it firmly down.
• For a missing shingle: Carefully clear any nails or debris, position the new shingle, and secure it with roofing nails, ensuring they sit flush with the surface.

While these steps seem straightforward, achieving a proper repair or roof replacement process isn’t easy. This is where a professional roofer excels. They can perfectly match the new shingles in terms of type, color, and size to your existing roof, ensuring a seamless and watertight seal. 

Fix Minor Leaks Before They Get Worse 

Addressing small leaks early is vital. If left unaddressed, the cumulative effects of spring weather over several seasons, combined with the roof’s aging, can eventually indicate the need for a roof replacement project.

Fixing minor leaks involves determining the source and applying a temporary patch to stop water intrusion. This fix might buy you some time during a downpour, but it’s not permanent. Contacting a reputable roofing contractor is always the best action for lasting roof repairs.

Reinforce Gutters and Drainage Systems

Gutters and drainage systems help manage water flow and prevent damage to your property. Fixing them involves various tasks.

• For Gutters: Replacing old or loose brackets, ensuring proper alignment and secure fastening to the fascia board, removing debris, and checking for leaks
• For Drainage: Clearing debris from outlets and inlets, inspecting pipes, conducting flow tests, using drain cameras to capture hidden issues, and regular maintenance

Professional roofing services are essential for safe and effective repairs, especially when dealing with extensive damage or advanced methods requiring specialized skills and modern roofing materials.

Takeaway

We celebrate spring’s beautiful and warm arrival, but it brings a fresh set of challenges to roofs. Understanding the impact of spring weather on shingle roofs is crucial to ensuring they remain sturdy and stylish throughout the season.

For thorough, efficient, and safe solutions, choose Storm Guard as your go-to contractor for commercial or residential roofing services. With 20+ years of experience, we skillfully install, repair, inspect, replace, and maintain shingle roofs for lasting peace and protection. 

Contact us today for a FREE inspection and estimate.