How Summer Heat Affects Your Commercial Roof (and What You Can Do About It)

As temperatures rise, your commercial roof starts working overtime—whether you realize it or not. While winter brings its fair share of roofing concerns, summer heat can quietly cause long-term damage that impacts both your building’s performance and your bottom line.

Here’s what every property manager and owner should know about how the summer sun can affect flat and low-slope roofing systems—and how to stay ahead of costly repairs.

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1. Heat Causes Roofing Materials to Expand and Contract

When temperatures climb during the day and cool off at night, roofing materials naturally expand and contract. Over time, this thermal cycling can stress seams, fasteners, and flashing points—especially on older roofs.

The result? Small cracks, popped screws, or separation at seams that can lead to water infiltration the next time it rains.

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2. UV Radiation Accelerates Aging

Even on days that aren’t blazing hot, UV rays beat down on your roof. This constant exposure can degrade membranes, dry out sealants, and break down protective coatings—especially on roofs with poor reflectivity or aged surfaces.

The risk: Premature aging that reduces the lifespan of your roofing system, even if there are no visible leaks yet.

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3. Trapped Heat = Strain on HVAC and Higher Energy Bills

A poorly performing roof can transfer heat into your building, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain indoor temperatures. Over time, this can result in higher utility costs—and create uncomfortable conditions.

Bonus tip: The right solution always depends on your specific roof and building use. An expert inspection is the best first step.

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4. Summer Storms Can Compound Damage

Let’s not forget weather like the heavy rain and wind we’ve had lately. If your roof is already stressed from heat or UV exposure, a sudden downpour or gusty wind can take it from “aging” to “actively leaking.”

Pro tip: Catching small issues now prevents them from becoming major repairs later.

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What You Can Do This Summer

You don’t need to climb up there yourself—now’s a great time to schedule a professional roof inspection. At A & K Construction, we evaluate each roof individually and make recommendations based on your building’s needs, age, and use. No pressure, no guesswork—just honest expertise.

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A summer inspection helps you:

• Catch early signs of heat or UV damage

• Extend the life of your existing roof system

• Avoid costly surprises

• Improve building comfort and energy efficiency

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Ready for a Roof Checkup?

Let’s make sure your roof is ready for the hottest months of the year. Contact A& K Construction today to schedule a summer inspection—or ask us how a seasonal maintenance plan can save you time and money all year long.