Roofing what you do not know


First we want to help you recognize the signs of asphalt shingle aging. By doing so, you’ll be able to distinguish between natural processes that are no cause for alarm and issues that do require attention and repair!  There are two types of shingles in the roofing world that we want to make you aware of, 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles and Laminated shingles. 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles are lightweight, flat, and have only one shingle tab shape and size. Each shingle is composed of three 12-inch tabs that are all identical. Laminated Shingles, also called Architectural Shingles, are much thicker and heavier. Producers build Laminated Shingles with a heavier base mat and multiple layers of adhesive and granules. Laminated Shingles are more expensive on average, but their longer life expectancy makes them more affordable in the long run. 3- tab shingles are the thinnest shingle available. This makes them less resistant to harsh weather and more prone to being blown off in a storm. They’re also likely to curl upwards or buckle as they begin to age.

 


Your Roof is AGING:

It is natural for your roof to age. The process begins as soon
as your shingles are exposed to nature. The sun can raise
rooftop temperatures as high as 50–70 degrees above ambient
temperature. The excessive heat and ultraviolet radiation from
the sun has been shown to accelerate the aging of the shingles’
asphalt layers. Other factors, such as pollution, hail, snow loads,
tree limbs and people walking on your roof, also contribute to
the natural aging process.
Asphalt shingles will begin to age as soon as they are applied
to your roof. Minor curling, surface cracking, blisters, algae stains,
granule loss and buckling are all signs of aging.

Curling is a common phenomenon in some shingles and is not a
defect. It is natural for asphalt to age and asphalt layers to shrink
with time. This shrinkage may result in the slight curling of the
edges of the shingle.





While minor cracks may not be noticeable from the ground, you might spot them while hanging your Christmas lights. Intense heat from the sun often allows protective asphalt oils to deplete, causing minor cracks. Keep in mind that these normal weathering characteristics are not cause for alarm as long as your shingles are still performing their intended purpose of shedding water. Cracks that penetrate through the fiberglass or organic mat should be investigated.

Occasionally, naturally occurring small, circular raised areas
known as blisters may appear on your roof. These pockets may vary in size and be open (exposing the asphalt) or closed. Blisters are often a direct result of underventilated attics or excessive use
of plastic cement. Closed blisters are not a reason for concern as long as your shingles are still performing their intended purpose of shedding water. However, open blisters do mean asphalt is
exposed and immediate attention is required



In moist, humid areas, dark brown or black patches may appear on roofs. These streaks result in a dirty rooftop, often more visible
on lighter-colored shingles. This naturally occurring stain is caused by algae growth and will not affect your shingles' ability to shed water. Algae discoloration should not be confused with moss or tree droppings, which typically produce only localized discoloration.

While not technically a sign of aging, a distortion of shingles known as
buckling can occur months after original application. Lack of adequate attic ventilation can increase the moisture content of the decking material. This may cause expansion and movement of the wood deck which can lead to buckled shingles.



NORMAL AGING

Curling
Surface cracking
Closed blisters
Algae stains
Slight granule loss

NEEDS ATTENTION

Open blisters
Cracks visible through the
fiberglass or organic mat
Exposed asphalt due
to granule loss