As summer temperatures soar in Searcy, Arkansas, it’s more important than ever to pay attention to your roof—the first line of defense against the blazing sun. While roofs are built to withstand tough weather, the intense heat and sunlight we experience in central Arkansas can push even the best materials to their breaking point. Here’s what you need to know about how summer heat impacts your roof, and practical steps you can take to keep it in top shape.
The Impact of Summer Heat on Your Roof
When the sun beats down day after day, your roof absorbs a tremendous amount of heat. In Searcy, where summer highs often reach the upper 90s and beyond, this can cause shingles to deteriorate faster than expected. Asphalt shingles, which are common in our area, are especially vulnerable—they can soften, curl, or even crack under extreme conditions. Metal, tile, and slate roofs tend to handle heat better, but each comes with its own considerations, such as cost and resistance to hail.
Another issue is thermal shock. This happens when your roof heats up rapidly during the day and then cools quickly at night. These temperature swings can cause roofing materials to expand and contract, leading to warping, curling, or even missing shingles. Over time, this stress can also affect the underlying structure, increasing the risk of leaks.
Signs Your Roof May Be Suffering from Heat Damage
If you notice shingles that are curling at the edges, buckling, or losing their protective granules (check your gutters for buildup), your roof may be suffering from heat-related wear. Blisters, cracks, or bubbles on the surface of shingles are also red flags. These issues are often made worse by poor attic ventilation, which traps heat and accelerates damage.
Five Ways to Protect Your Roof from Searcy’s Summer Heat
1. Upgrade Your Attic Insulation
Proper insulation doesn’t just keep your home cooler—it also protects your roof from heat radiating up from inside. Consider adding spray foam insulation to the underside of your roof decking for maximum protection. Just be aware that this can make it harder to spot leaks, so regular inspections are important.
2. Improve Attic Ventilation
Good airflow in your attic is essential. Make sure you have both intake vents (usually at the soffits) and exhaust vents (at the ridge or gables) to allow hot air to escape. For homes with low-slope roofs, adding powered exhaust fans can help move air more effectively.
3. Keep Vents Unobstructed
Check that your attic vents aren’t blocked by insulation or debris. Installing baffles can help keep soffit vents clear, ensuring that air can flow freely and keep your attic—and your roof—cooler.
4. Consider Reflective Roof Coatings
Applying a light-colored, reflective coating to your roof can help bounce sunlight away, reducing heat absorption. While this may not be the most attractive option for steeply pitched roofs, it’s a great solution for low-slope or flat roofs that aren’t highly visible from the street.
5. Install Solar Panels for Shade and Savings
Solar panels do double duty: they generate electricity and provide shade for your roof, reducing the amount of heat that reaches your shingles. This can extend the life of your roof and help lower your energy bills—a win-win for Searcy homeowners.
When to Call a Professional
If your roof is older or you’ve noticed signs of heat damage, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection—especially after a particularly hot summer. Regular checkups can catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs.
At Browns Roofing, we’re proud to help Searcy, Arkansas residents protect their homes from the challenges of our local climate. If you have questions about your roof or want to schedule an inspection, contact us today!
