Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing choices because of their price point, longevity, and durability. Sometimes, however, shingles can cause issues after they've been covering your roof for a while. A damaged or broken shingle can mean many things for your roofing system, so inspecting the affected areas further is essential.
If left untreated, damaged or broken shingles will lead to more significant issues like moisture accumulation, mold, rot, and much more. Staying on top of any shingles gone astray will keep your roof in ideal shape so it can last for years to come. There's a lot you should know about shingle injury and what it may mean for your home, though.
We're delighted you stopped by because RoofCrafters has repaired and replaced old and tired shingles for nearly thirty years. From cracked to cupped to missing shingles, we've seen everything you're likely concerned about, so we've created a comprehensive guide to addressing questionable ones that may cause you some trouble.
This article goes down the list of the potential causes and solutions to common shingle issues, along with their severity ratings. If you're questioning whether your shingles need assessment, this may be just what you need to clear things up. If you're ready, so are we. Let's get started!
Common Causes of Shingle Damage
Shingles are more susceptible to damage the longer they sit on your home. If you've endured years of harsh weather like strong winds and heavy rain, your shingles may eventually reach the point of no return. A tired shingle doesn't perform as well as it used to.
Thunderstorms
Storms are one of the biggest causes of shingle damage. Strong winds can leave shingles and even blow them away, while heavy rain washes critical protective agents away over time.
Hail
Hail damage wreaks serious havoc on homes and vehicles by causing dents, tears, and fractures. It can also cause granules to fall off, affecting the home's structural integrity.
Normal Wear and Tear
Shingles can't get up and walk away from the top of your roof. They're sitting there 24/7, rain or shine, and it's only natural for them to break down over time.
Signs of Shingle Damage
There are numerous signs of shingle damage to look out for. Most of it can be seen by inspecting the area, while others may need to be looked at professionally. It depends on the extent of the damage and what type it is. A professional inspection is always a good idea, however. When in doubt, consult with an expert.
Missing Shingles
What better way to know for sure if your shingles need replacing than them being nowhere to be seen? Call your local roofer if you notice any of your shingles are missing. Allowing your roof to go on exposed will cause damage- sometimes very quickly.
Cracked Shingles
The transition from high to low temperatures can cause shingles to crack. It's very common and easy to repair, but ensure you do have them fixed. Allowing cracked shingles to sit will allow water to seep through and invite its nasty friends to live in your home.
Blistered Shingles
Shingles may lighten in color over time, and it's more evident if you choose a darker shade. When excessive heat looms over your home, blistering can occur. While color changes are generally more of an aesthetic issue, sun bleaching can also cause essential protective layers of your shingles to strip away. In this case, reach out to your local roofer and discuss whether you're due for a replacement or not.
Loose Granules
Fallen granules are another common issue you may see on an aging roof. If you see any in or around your home, know that your home is at a greater risk of damage. Allow a professional to have a look to ensure your roof is in good shape to support you and your family. If you need help with what to look for in a roofer, check out this article.
Curled Shingles
Sometimes asphalt shingles can curl or "cup" inwards, often resulting from the roof receiving too much heat from the attic. If your attic isn't ventilated properly, significant issues can occur, and this is another issue that needs further inspection by a roofer. Leaving cupped shingles the way they are will expose your home to harm.
Should I Consult with a Professional?
It's certainly more convenient to take on a roofing project by yourself than to try to cut down on costs, but is it always a great idea? Ask yourself the questions listed below and gauge whether you're more likely better off sticking with the experts.
- Is My Damage Extensive?
- Do I Understand the Damage?
- Do I Have Extensive Roofing Knowledge and Experience?
Hiring your local roofer comes with numerous benefits, one of the most significant being that you don't have to do the work! They're here to make your life much easier. You can fork out the money to buy materials and equipment without guaranteeing you'll succeed or just bring the experts in from the beginning. What do you think?
Are My Shingles Damaged?
If you suspect they are, they very well could be! Remember, if you notice anything that looks a little fishy with your shingles, you should inspect the area and call a local professional. They'll help you decide what your next steps are. Remember, your roof is one of the most vital elements of your home. Take care of it!
If you're curious to know more about common asphalt shingle issues, we have you covered! Our learning center is packed full of resources that can direct you down the rabbit hole of shingle topics. There, you'll find articles we've tackled on everything from different shingle types to what you must know about them and so much more! There's a little something for everyone who has a few extra minutes, so it's a must if you want to brush up on your knowledge or help yourself get informed on the world of shingles.
Alright, you made it to the finale. If you have any more questions or concerns regarding your roof, RoofCrafters is more than thrilled to assist you. Before you get in contact with a roofer, though, please take a quick look at our comprehensive roofer checklist to ensure you know which ones stand out and will make the perfect addition to your roofing project. To get in touch with one of our kind RoofCrafters representatives, head over to our contact page.
