Managing stormwater runoff from asphalt shingles is a critical concern for homeowners. Asphalt shingles, covering 80% of U.S. homes, are impervious surfaces that generate significant runoff, especially during heavy rain. This runoff can overwhelm drainage systems, damage foundations, and carry pollutants like heavy metals into local waterways, degrading water quality.
Key Insights:
- Asphalt shingle roofs generate nearly 100% runoff, with a 2,000 sq. ft. roof producing over 1,200 gallons of water per inch of rainfall.
- Aging shingles lose granules, contributing to clogged gutters and polluted runoff.
- Poor stormwater management can lead to structural issues like foundation cracks, leaks, and ice dams.
Solutions:
- Roof rejuvenation: A cost-effective way to extend the life of shingles, reduce runoff, and improve water flow. Technologies like GreenSoy help secure granules, seal shingles, and reduce pollutant leaching.
- Supplemental systems: Rain barrels, bioswales, and permeable pavements can further manage runoff and protect local ecosystems.
- Regular maintenance: Ensuring proper roof slope, functioning gutters, and addressing granule loss early can prevent costly damage.
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Problems with Stormwater Runoff from Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingle roofs bring unique challenges to managing stormwater, complicating both drainage and water quality concerns.
Increased Runoff and Drainage Issues
Asphalt shingle roofs channel nearly all rainfall into gutters and drainage systems, leaving little opportunity for water to soak into the ground. During heavy storms, this rapid runoff can overwhelm residential drainage setups. Gutters often can't keep up, leading to overflows that damage walls, erode soil near downspouts, and even harm foundations. In neighborhoods with many shingled roofs, the sheer volume of runoff can strain municipal stormwater systems, increasing the risk of localized flooding and drainage failures.
Pollutants in Roof Runoff
Beyond the sheer volume of water, runoff from asphalt shingles can degrade water quality. Rainwater flowing across these roofs picks up contaminants like heavy metals, petroleum-based substances, and chemical additives. For instance, zinc and copper can leach from shingles and nearby roofing components. Older shingles tend to release more pollutants, especially during the "first flush" - the initial runoff that carries debris and weathered material accumulated on the roof. This concentrated mix of pollutants poses a threat to nearby waterways and ecosystems.
Risks to Structural Integrity
Ineffective stormwater management from asphalt shingle roofs can lead to significant structural problems. When gutters and drains can't handle the runoff, water pools around foundations, saturating the soil and creating pressure that can crack walls and compromise structural stability. In colder regions, poor drainage can cause ice dams to form along roof edges. These ice dams can push water under the shingles, leading to leaks, damaged insulation, and wood rot in the roof's structure. Over time, persistent moisture can also deteriorate fascia boards and soffits, resulting in costly repairs for homeowners. These challenges highlight the need for better solutions to manage runoff and protect structural integrity.
Restoration Solutions for Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Restoring your roof isn't just about fixing wear and tear - it also addresses stormwater challenges while extending the life of your asphalt shingles. With modern techniques, restoration can tackle the root causes of runoff issues and help improve water quality.
Benefits of Roof Rejuvenation
Roof rejuvenation has come a long way, especially with advanced technologies like Scharf Fresh Roof's patented GreenSoy Technology. This process replenishes the oil content in asphalt shingles, secures granule adhesion, and creates a seamless protective layer to shield your roof.
Testing by PRI showed notable improvements in granule adhesion: 25% for new shingles, 40% for shingles at 15 years, and 50% for those at 30 years. Why does this matter? When granules stay put, they're less likely to wash off during storms, which means less debris clogging your gutters and fewer pollutants entering your drainage system.
Scharf Fresh Roof also offers a transferable warranty - great if you’re thinking about selling your property. Plus, they plant a tree for every roof treated, adding an extra layer of environmental benefit. And beyond these perks, rejuvenation helps optimize water flow across your roof, making it a win-win for both your home and the planet.
Impact on Stormwater Management
A restored roof doesn’t just look better - it performs better, especially when it comes to handling stormwater. The rejuvenation process smooths out the roof’s surface, promoting more even water flow. This helps prevent pooling and uneven drainage that can overwhelm your gutters during heavy rain.
Restoration also tackles pollutant leaching by sealing the shingles. This prevents the breakdown of petroleum-based compounds, which can release harmful chemicals into groundwater. Even better, the roof coatings used are made with low-VOC, eco-friendly materials, reducing the risk of harmful runoff entering the ecosystem. Given that asphalt shingles can release potentially carcinogenic chemicals and affect air quality, this is a big deal.
Beyond water management, the protective layer applied during restoration shields your roof from UV rays, temperature swings, and harsh weather. This added durability ensures your roof continues to manage stormwater effectively for years, easing drainage issues over the long term.
Cost and Benefits
Restoration offers a financial edge over full roof replacement. It can extend your roof’s lifespan by 10 to 20 years, delaying the hefty cost of replacement while reducing the strain on your stormwater system. Plus, restoration generates far less waste - up to 90% less than replacing an entire roof.
The environmental benefits don’t stop there. Restoration materials use fewer raw resources and require much less energy to produce and transport compared to new roofing materials. This means a smaller carbon footprint for your home improvement project.
For properties aiming to align with green building practices, restoration can even help you work toward certifications like LEED or Energy Star. These certifications not only add long-term value to your property but also support broader environmental initiatives.
With its combination of cost savings, durability, and environmental benefits, roof restoration is a smart choice for homeowners looking to address stormwater challenges while extending the life of their asphalt shingle roofs.
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Best Practices for Stormwater Management with Asphalt Shingles
Managing stormwater effectively starts with thoughtful roof design, routine maintenance, and the addition of smart drainage solutions. These steps not only help control water runoff but also protect your property and contribute to healthier local waterways.
Roof Design and Maintenance Tips
A well-designed roof is the first line of defense in stormwater management. Ensuring your roof has the right slope and that asphalt shingles are installed according to local building codes can prevent water pooling, which often leads to damage and granule loss. Poor design can compromise your roof's ability to shed water efficiently, increasing the risk of leaks and wear.
Equipping your home with properly sized gutters and downspouts is equally important. These systems should be positioned to direct runoff safely away from your foundation. For older roofs, keep an eye out for granule loss - if you notice a significant buildup of granules in gutters or around your home, it might be time to take action. Services like Scharf Fresh Roof's GreenSoy Technology can restore granule adhesion while adding extra protection to your shingles.
Once your roof is in good shape, you can enhance its performance by incorporating additional systems to manage runoff.
Adding Supporting Systems
Supplementary systems can make a big difference in managing stormwater. Rain barrels and cisterns are simple yet effective tools for capturing runoff, reducing the amount of water entering storm drains, and providing a sustainable source for irrigation during dry spells.
For a more natural approach, consider features like bioswales or rain gardens. These systems use native, water-absorbing plants to filter and manage overflow runoff, improving water quality and reducing strain on municipal drainage. If your property faces heavy water flow, underground solutions like French drains or dry wells can provide temporary storage, allowing water to gradually seep into the surrounding soil.
Another practical option is installing permeable pavements or pavers. These materials allow water to soak into the ground rather than contributing to surface runoff, offering a simple way to complement your roof's stormwater management efforts.
By combining these systems with regular roof maintenance, you can reduce water-related risks and extend the life of your roof.
Roofing Coatings and Materials
The materials and coatings on your roof also play a major role in stormwater management. Specialized roof coatings, for instance, can minimize pollutant leaching and promote smoother water flow. Elastomeric coatings, in particular, create a seamless, waterproof layer that protects shingles from water penetration and UV damage, helping to extend your roof's lifespan and improve runoff efficiency.
GreenSoy Technology offers another layer of defense by reinforcing granule adhesion and reducing chemical runoff, shielding your shingles from the harmful effects of UV exposure.
Reflective roof coatings are worth considering as well. These coatings can lower roof surface temperatures, which may reduce the thermal impacts on stormwater runoff - a benefit for nearby waterways. For best results, apply these coatings in dry, moderate weather and allow ample time for curing.
If you're using metal roof coatings on asphalt shingles, look for options with additives that prevent rust and provide UV stabilization. These coatings not only enhance durability but also reduce long-term maintenance needs, offering a cost-effective alternative to a full roof replacement.
Key Takeaways on Stormwater Management
When it comes to managing stormwater effectively, success hinges on smart design, routine maintenance, and thoughtful restoration efforts. Here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Roof rejuvenation, like Scharf Fresh Roof's GreenSoy Technology, offers a practical way to extend roof life while improving its ability to handle stormwater. This patented approach not only boosts durability but also provides transferable warranties and adds environmental benefits. Plus, it’s a cost-effective solution that delivers long-term value.
- Restoration is a game-changer. It’s often more budget-friendly than full roof replacement and enhances the roof's durability, making it a win-win for homeowners.
- Complementary systems matter. Tools like rain barrels, bioswales, and permeable pavements work hand-in-hand with restored roofing systems to manage runoff more effectively. Together, they form a robust defense against water damage.
- Early intervention is crucial. Spotting issues like granule loss or poor drainage early on and addressing them with timely restoration and proper drainage solutions can protect your property and improve local water quality.
FAQs
How does rejuvenating asphalt shingles with GreenSoy Technology help reduce stormwater runoff?
Rejuvenating asphalt shingles with GreenSoy Technology helps restore their protective surface, effectively reducing stormwater runoff. This approach repairs damage caused by UV rays, rain, and wind, creating a strong barrier that guards against cracks and wear. By improving the shingles' flexibility and ability to withstand harsh weather, it lowers the chances of water seeping through and limits runoff caused by aging or damaged shingles.
On top of that, this treatment can extend your roof's lifespan, ensuring it continues to direct water away from your home during storms. This not only safeguards your property but also supports improved stormwater management in your community.
How do systems like rain barrels and bioswales help with stormwater management?
Rain barrels and bioswales are essential tools for managing stormwater effectively. By capturing and slowing down runoff, they help reduce the risks of flooding, curb erosion, and limit the spread of pollutants into nearby rivers and streams.
Bioswales go a step further by improving water quality. They filter out contaminants as water passes through layers of vegetation and soil, while also helping to replenish groundwater supplies. These systems not only safeguard local ecosystems but also contribute to smarter, more sustainable water management in your area.
Why should you address granule loss and drainage issues on asphalt shingle roofs early?
Granule loss and poor drainage are two issues that can seriously affect your roof if not addressed early. Granules play a crucial role in protecting shingles from harsh UV rays and weather damage. When these granules wear away, shingles become exposed, increasing the risk of cracks, leaks, and even structural damage. Add poor drainage to the mix, and things can get worse - standing water or excessive runoff can speed up wear and tear by concentrating water in vulnerable spots.
Dealing with these problems as soon as they arise helps maintain your roof's durability, extends its lifespan, and prevents expensive repairs down the line. Plus, regular upkeep ensures your home stays protected, even when extreme weather hits.
