Your Roof for a Hot, Dry Summer (And Save on Energy Bills)

As summer rolls in with its long sunny days and rising temperatures, most of us are thinking about BBQ's, beach days, and keeping cool indoors. But while you're reaching for the A/C remote, your roof is taking the brunt of the heat and if it's not in top shape, it could be costing you more than you think. 

Here's how to prepare your roof for the heat ahead, prevent costly damage, and even save money on energy bills.

1. Check for Sun Damage on Shingles

High summer temperatures and intense UV rays can cause roofing materials especially asphalt shingles to dry out, crack, curl, or fade. Over time, this weakens your roof’s ability to protect your home and can lead to leaks or structural issues.

What to look for:

• Shingles that are brittle, lifting, or missing granules

• Uneven discolouration or areas that look “bald”

• Signs of warping or curling edges

2. Clean Out Your Gutters and Downspouts

Even in dry weather, clogged gutters can cause problems. Summer storms (or even sprinkler run-off) can pool on the roof if gutters are backed up, increasing the risk of water damage.

What to do:

• Remove leaves, dirt, and debris

• Make sure water flows freely through all downspouts

• Check that gutters are securely attached and sloped correctly

3. Improve Attic Ventilation to Reduce Heat Buildup

Poor roof ventilation traps heat in your attic, making your whole house hotter and increasing your cooling costs. It can also accelerate the aging of your roof and lead to moisture issues.

What to check:

• Are your attic vents blocked or covered?

• Is the attic air stuffy or humid?

• Consider adding ridge vents or solar-powered exhaust fans if needed

4. Inspect Flashing Around Vents, Chimneys, and Skylights

Flashing seals the joints where different parts of your roof meet — and it’s often the first place leaks develop. Summer heat can cause flashing to expand, loosen, or crack, especially if it’s already aging.

Tip:
Check for signs of rust, gaps, or sealant that’s dried out. Re-sealing these areas now can prevent major water damage during summer storms.

5. Consider a Reflective or “Cool Roof” Upgrade

If your roof is due for an upgrade — or you’re just tired of high A/C bills — a cool roof might be worth considering. These roofs use reflective materials or coatings to bounce sunlight away from your home, reducing the amount of heat absorbed.

Benefits of cool roofing materials:

• Lower indoor temps

• Reduced air conditioning use

• Longer roof lifespan

• Potential rebates or energy incentives in some areas

6. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Even if everything looks okay from the ground, it’s smart to have a professional inspect your roof before peak summer. Pros can catch signs of wear you might miss — and offer quick fixes that prevent expensive repairs later on.

When to do it:

Ideally once per year, and especially after extreme weather seasons like winter or summer.

Final Thoughts

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the heat — and a little summer prep goes a long way. Whether you’re looking to protect your investment, improve energy efficiency, or just stay cool indoors, these tips can help you get ahead of problems before the hottest days arrive.