Common Problems of Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Asphalt shingles are widely-used residential roofing materials for many reasons. They are economical, easy to install, and perfectly conform to the conventional look of your neighborhood. Unfortunately, while shingles are great roofing materials, you should be ready for several common issues affecting your asphalt shingles.

Proactive professional repair is important if you want to prevent these problems from escalating into serious and expensive repairs. Below are common asphalt shingle roof issues that require intervention from DMG Exteriors.

1.   Blistering

Blistering is a common asphalt shingle problem that occurs when trapped moisture between shingles expands and breaks through its surface, creating exposed spots. In most cases, blistering occurs when temperatures are high, particularly during summer.

This problem primarily occurs when moisture is trapped between the shingle layers during the manufacturing process. Shingles have three layers, fiberglass backing, asphalt coating, and top granules. Blistering can potentially occur if moisture gets trapped between these layers during manufacturing.

Apart from trapped moisture, poor roof ventilation can also cause blistering. If your roof isn’t well ventilated, it can trap moisture, causing this problem. Extensive shingle blistering exposes the roof and decking to harsh conditions, leading to leaks and premature failure.

2.   Asphalt shingle curling

Curling is another common problem associated with asphalt shingles. Fortunately, unlike blistering, curling is easily noticeable. You should suspect that your shingles are curling if you notice that the edges and corners have turned upwards and lifted off from the roof surface. Curling occurs due to several reasons, including:

• Improper installation – Misaligned shingles and roofing over uneven shingles causes curling.
• Improper ventilation – Curling can also occur if moisture is trapped within your roofing system.
• Thermal shock – This occurs when high roof temperatures suddenly drop.
• Extensive curling of the shingles can lead to leakages and roof failure.

3.   Loss of Granules

You should also be on the lookout for granule loss in your asphalt shingles. As the name suggests, granule loss occurs when the top layer starts detaching from your shingle roof. Granules, consisting of pigmented ceramic or very finely crushed stones, make up the top layer of shingle roofs, forming a protective barrier that prolongs shingle roofs’ lifespan and adds color.

Over time, shingle roofs generally experience some degree of granule loss due to extensive exposure and weathering. However, if you find large amounts of granules in your gutter within a short period, chances are some spots on your roof are missing granules. Common causes of granule loss include;

• The middle asphalt layer wasn’t applied consistently or evenly and has developed adhesions
• Overheating roof, which melts the asphalt causing granule loss
• Poorly ventilated roof: This occurs if the attic space, insulation, or the roof itself has an issue

If granules from your asphalt shingles detach at a high rate and the issue isn’t corrected, it can block gutters and lead to eventual roof failure.

Endnote

All roof systems, including metals, tiles, shingles, and other roofing materials, have several potential problems. Homeowners should understand the common issues affecting these roofs and take proactive remediation steps to avoid expensive repairs or reinstallation. That aside, working with experienced roofing contractors can help mitigate these problems.