80 Degrees One Day, 37 Degrees the Next: How South Georgia’s Climate Can Adversely Affect Older Savannah Area Roofs

If you’ve lived in Savannah, GA long enough, you’ve seen it happen more than once—80-degree weather one day, followed by temperatures in the 30s the next. While this kind of temperature swing may feel unusual to homeowners, it’s actually a common reality of the South Georgia climate, especially during late fall, winter, and early spring.

As a Savannah roofing contractor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how these rapid temperature fluctuations can accelerate roof aging, particularly on older roofs throughout the Savannah area, including historic homes, coastal neighborhoods, and inland communities.

Rapid Temperature Swings Cause Roof Expansion and Contraction

When temperatures spike into the 70s or 80s, roofing materials expand. When overnight lows drop into the 30s or 40s, those same materials contract. This constant expansion and contraction cycle is especially hard on older roofing systems in Savannah.

Common roofing materials affected include:

• Asphalt shingles

• Underlayment and felt paper

• Flashing around chimneys and dormers

• Sealants and roof penetrations

Over time, these temperature changes can cause cracked shingles, loosened nails, failing sealant, and compromised flashing, all of which increase the risk of roof leaks and water intrusion.

Older Savannah Roofs Are More Vulnerable

Many homes in Savannah and surrounding areas have roofs that are 15–30 years old, and older roofing systems simply aren’t designed to handle today’s increasingly extreme temperature shifts.

Older roofs often experience:

• Brittle shingles that crack during cold snaps

• Curling or lifting shingles after warm afternoons

• Worn-out underlayment that no longer protects against moisture

• Failing flashing that allows wind-driven rain inside

When you combine these issues with Savannah’s humidity, salt air near the coast, and frequent rain, the damage can progress faster than homeowners expect.

Temperature Swings Can Lead to Hidden Roof Leaks

One of the biggest problems we see as professional roofers in Savannah, GA is hidden roof damage. A roof may look fine from the ground, but temperature stress can create small cracks that allow water in slowly.

These leaks often go unnoticed until homeowners see:

• Water stains on ceilings

• Soft spots in decking

• Mold or mildew in attics

• Higher energy bills due to lost insulation efficiency

By the time interior damage shows up, the roof issue has usually been developing for months.

South Georgia Climate + Aging Roof = Higher Repair Costs

Ignoring roof maintenance in a climate like South Georgia can turn a small repair into a major roofing project. What starts as a minor shingle failure caused by temperature changes can eventually require:

• Structural wood replacement

• Interior drywall repair

• Mold remediation

• Premature roof replacement

Routine roof inspections are one of the best ways to protect older Savannah roofs from climate-related damage.

Why Local Experience Matters in Savannah Roofing

Not all roofing contractors understand the unique challenges of the Savannah, GA climate. Coastal humidity, salt exposure, sudden cold snaps, and intense heat all impact roofing systems differently than in other parts of the country.

Choosing an experienced local roofer with strong reviews and a proven track record can make all the difference in extending the life of your roof and avoiding costly surprises.

Choose a Trusted, Local Savannah Roofer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If your roof is aging or you’re concerned about how recent temperature swings may have affected it, it’s time to call a professional who understands Savannah roofs.

Beau Dossey Roofing has the local experience, knowledge, and reputation homeowners trust.

📞 Call Beau Dossey Roofing today at 912-272-7973Protect your home by choosing an experienced Savannah roofer with a great star rating and proven results.