Common Summer Roof Issues and How to Deal with Them

A Guide for Oklahoma Homeowners and Business Owners

Oklahoma summers are known for their heat, humidity, and unpredictable weather patterns. While these elements may be part of the charm of the Sooner State, they can also pose serious challenges to the condition of your roof. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, understanding the most common summer roof issues and knowing how to deal with them can help you prevent expensive damage and extend the life of your roof.

In this blog, we’ll break down the most frequent summer roofing problems faced in Oklahoma, how to spot them early, and whether they require a professional or can be handled on your own.

1. Heat Damage and Shingle Deterioration

The Problem:

During the summer, rooftop temperatures can climb well above 150°F. Prolonged exposure to this level of heat can cause asphalt shingles to dry out, curl, or crack. This weakens your roof’s first line of defense against the elements and can lead to leaks, water damage, and increased cooling costs due to reduced insulation effectiveness.

What You Can Do:

DIY: Homeowners can safely inspect their roofs from the ground or by using binoculars to look for signs of curling or missing shingles. You can also check the attic for heat buildup and consider installing proper ventilation or attic fans.

Call a Pro: If shingles are curling, missing, or cracking, it's time to call a professional roofer like Statewide Roofing. Replacing damaged shingles and assessing underlying issues should not be handled without proper training and safety equipment.

2. UV Ray Exposure and Membrane Breakdown (Flat Roofs)

The Problem:

Flat and low-slope commercial roofs in Oklahoma are especially vulnerable to intense UV exposure. Over time, UV rays break down the chemical bonds in roofing membranes like TPO or modified bitumen, making them brittle and prone to leaks.

What You Can Do:

DIY: Apply a UV-reflective coating if you're experienced with flat roofing systems and the product is compatible. This can temporarily reduce UV exposure and heat absorption. Be sure to consult with a professional before applying anything to your flat roof, and always hire an experienced roofing team when in doubt.

Call a Pro: For visible cracking, bubbling, or pooling water, don’t take chances. These are signs of membrane failure, and professional inspection and repair are necessary to prevent major water intrusion or structural damage.

3. Thermal Expansion and Contraction

The Problem:

In Oklahoma, it’s not uncommon for temperatures to swing drastically between day and night. This causes roofing materials to expand in the heat and contract as they cool, putting stress on flashing, seams, and joints. Over time, this cycle can lead to cracks and loosened materials.

What You Can Do:

DIY: Inspect visible flashing (like around chimneys or vents) for signs of pulling away or cracking. Caulking small gaps using roofing sealant may offer a temporary fix, but avoid climbing on your roof at all costs.

Call a Pro: Thermal damage often hides in places you can’t see. A licensed roofer can check for stress fractures around joints and flashing and reseal or reinforce materials as needed.

4. Heavy Summer Storms and Wind Damage

The Problem:

Oklahoma is no stranger to intense summer storms, complete with hail, high winds, and torrential rain. These events can strip shingles, damage underlayment, and cause debris to puncture your roof.

What You Can Do:

DIY: After a storm, walk the perimeter of your property and visually inspect your roof for missing shingles or obvious damage. Remove any small debris like branches from the roof with a long brush or leaf blower. Never climb on your roof, especially if it is wet.

Call a Pro: If shingles are missing, flashing is displaced, or you suspect impact from hail or flying debris, call Statewide Roofing for a storm damage inspection. Insurance may cover repair or replacement if the damage is documented quickly.

5. Clogged Gutters and Downspouts

The Problem:

While often overlooked, clogged gutters can be a big problem in summer. Oklahoma’s storms can quickly fill gutters with leaves, branches, and granules from aging shingles. This leads to water backup, roof edge rot, and even foundation problems if water isn’t directed away from the building properly.

What You Can Do:

DIY: Clean your gutters at least once in early summer and again after any major storm. A hose, ladder, gloves, and gutter scoop are all you need. Be cautious of power lines and always practice ladder safety. If you’re not comfortable with ladders, hire a professional to clean your gutters.

Call a Pro: If your gutters are sagging, rusted, or poorly draining even when clean, professional repair or replacement may be necessary to protect your roof and home’s foundation.

6. Algae and Moss Growth

The Problem:

The humid Oklahoma summer in certain parts of the state creates the perfect environment for algae and moss to grow on shaded or north-facing parts of the roof. These organisms may not seem like a big deal, but they trap moisture against the shingles, accelerating deterioration.

What You Can Do:

DIY: You can clean algae off your roof using a 50/50 solution of water and bleach, applied with a pump sprayer. Rinse gently with a garden hose. Never use a pressure washer, as it can damage shingles.

Call a Pro: If moss has deeply rooted, is in spaces that require you to climb on your roof, or spreads across large sections of your roof, a professional should be called in. They can safely remove it without voiding your roof warranty or damaging materials.

7. Improper Ventilation

The Problem:

High attic temperatures don’t just make your home harder to cool; they also cook your shingles from the inside out. Poor ventilation leads to heat and moisture buildup, which can cause roof decking to warp and shingles to fail prematurely.

What You Can Do:

DIY: You can check attic airflow by ensuring soffit vents are not blocked by insulation and feeling for air movement near ridge vents on a hot day.

Call a Pro: A roofing expert can assess airflow and recommend the proper combination of ridge vents, soffit vents, and attic fans. If your attic consistently reaches extreme temperatures, professional solutions are a must.

8. Pest Intrusions

The Problem:

Summer heat can drive critters like squirrels, birds, and raccoons to seek shelter in roof voids, especially in older roofs with small openings or soft wood. Their nesting and chewing can damage insulation, wiring, and shingles.

What You Can Do:

DIY: Walk your property and look for signs of gnawing or droppings near roof lines. Use expanding foam or wire mesh to block small access points.

Call a Pro: If pests have gained access to the attic or have damaged the roof, professional wildlife control and roofing repair are the safest route. Patching holes and replacing affected sections will restore your roof’s integrity.

When in Doubt, Call the Experts

Some roofing issues might seem manageable at first glance, but many minor problems escalate quickly in the Oklahoma summer heat. Attempting to fix certain issues without proper tools or safety precautions can be dangerous and lead to more expensive repairs in the long run.

Statewide Roofing has proudly served Oklahoma for over 30 years, offering honest inspections, timely repairs, and full roof replacements with quality craftsmanship you can trust. If your roof shows signs of summer stress, don’t wait until the damage spreads.

Final Tips for Summer Roof Care

• Schedule an annual summer roof inspection, especially if your roof is 10+ years old.
• Install gutter guards to reduce debris buildup after storms.
• Trim overhanging trees to minimize leaf and branch damage.
• Consider investing in impact-resistant shingles or cool roof technology if you're due for a replacement.
  
  

Need help now?

Contact Statewide Roofing today to schedule a roof assessment or emergency repair service. We’re here to help you stay cool, covered, and confident all summer long.