3 Things That Can Cause Shingle Damage

Asphalt shingle roofs are popular among homeowners. A shingle roof is affordable, durable, and easy to install. It's important that you know how to protect your shingle roof against damage that could compromise the safety of your home.

Shingle damage can be caused by a number of things. Here are three of the more common causes of shingle damage that you need to be aware of in order to keep your roof in good condition over time.

1. Poor Ventilation

All roofing systems need to be properly ventilated. Without proper ventilation, temperatures and moisture levels in your home's attic can build. The accumulating moisture has the potential to wreak havoc on the quality of your asphalt shingles.

Exposure to moisture can cause shingles to begin curling and deteriorating. The edges of the shingles will begin to lift away from the roof decking, which leaves the decking exposed to even more moisture.

Be sure to evaluate your roof often to check for curling shingles. An experienced roofing contractor will be able to examine your ventilation system and make any changes needed to prevent curling shingles in the future.

2. Severe Weather

Your roof acts as a barrier between your living space and the outside environment. Exposure to any type of severe weather can cause shingle damage. Wind and hail are among the two most dangerous types of severe weather a shingle roof will face.

Excessive winds can lift shingles away from the roof decking and leave your roof vulnerable to serious damage. Large hailstones loosen the granules that coat asphalt shingles when they make impact. Since the granules are meant to protect against UV damage, shingles that have been damaged by hail can deteriorate much faster than normal.

Have your roofing contractor repair or replace any shingles damaged by severe weather conditions as quickly as possible.

3. Sunlight

Direct sunlight will cause your asphalt shingles to become brittle over time. Brittle shingles are not able to expand and contract as outdoor temperatures change. As a result, cracks often begin to appear on the surface of a shingle roof over time.

Some cracks here and there are to be expected as your roof ages. Excessive cracking can lead to water damage, and should always be addressed by a roofing professional.

You can also choose to have a protective coating applied to the surface of your shingle roof if you live in a climate where direct sunlight is prevalent. For more information on shingle repair, contact a professional near you.

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