Living in beautiful Wilmington, NC, means you get to enjoy the coastal breeze, charming scenery, and mild winters, but that ocean air comes at a price when it comes to your roof. At Best Choice Roofing, we’ve been helping homeowners across North Carolina protect their homes from the unique challenges of the coastal climate. With premium asphalt shingles, including three-tab, architectural, impact-resistant, and luxury options, we’ve got the materials and the know-how to keep your home secure and stylish, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
Wilmington’s climate brings high humidity levels, salty air, and seasonal storms, all of which can do a number on your roofing materials if you’re not prepared. So, let’s dive into how coastal humidity can wear down your roof, what signs to watch for, and how Best Choice Roofing can help you stay one step ahead.
The Coastal Climate: Beautiful, But Tough on Roofs
Humidity is no stranger to Wilmington. Thanks to its location along the Cape Fear coast, this city sees consistently high moisture levels year-round. That moisture doesn’t just stay in the air; it creeps into every part of your home, especially your roof. Pair that with salt-laden ocean breezes and the occasional tropical storm, and you’ve got a recipe for serious roofing wear and tear.
But don’t panic. Knowing the effects of this climate and how to protect against them is the first step in keeping your home safe and sound.
How Humidity Damages Your Roof
1. Mold and Algae Growth
High humidity and warm temperatures are a dream come true for algae, mold, and mildew. These organisms love to grow on asphalt shingles, especially on roofs that don’t get a lot of sun. You might start to see dark streaks forming on your shingles; besides looking bad, this can cause long-term damage to the material if left untreated.
2. Wood Rot and Structural Issues
Trapped moisture can also creep beneath shingles and into your roof deck. Over time, this leads to wood rot, weakening the very structure that keeps your roof intact. The longer the moisture sits, the worse the damage gets, often undetectable until it becomes a costly problem.
3. Corrosion of Metal Components
Salt air speeds up the rusting process. This means flashing, fasteners, and metal vents are at greater risk of corrosion in Wilmington than in inland areas. Once metal parts start to break down, water can find its way inside much more easily.
4. Shingle Degradation
Humidity can cause asphalt shingles to blister, curl, or warp over time. When shingles don’t lie flat, they’re not doing their job properly, which leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks and weather damage.
What You Can Do
The good news? You’re not helpless against the Wilmington weather. Here are a few things that can make a big difference:
- Choose the right materials. Impact-resistant or premium architectural shingles are better equipped to handle coastal conditions than basic three-tab shingles.
- Schedule regular inspections. At Best Choice Roofing, we recommend at least one professional roof inspection per year, ideally before hurricane season rolls in.
- Clean your roof. Removing algae, debris, and leaves can reduce the buildup of moisture and extend the life of your shingles.
- Upgrade ventilation. Proper attic ventilation helps reduce humidity from the inside out, which keeps your roof cooler and drier.
Protect Your Home with Best Choice Roofing
At Best Choice Roofing, we’re more than just shingle installers; we’re your local roofing experts. We understand what Wilmington roofs go through and are committed to providing solutions that last. Whether you’re noticing streaks on your shingles or just want a peace-of-mind inspection before storm season, we’re here to help.
Call us today to schedule your free roof inspection, and let’s make sure your roof is ready for whatever the coast throws your way.
