What Causes Damage to Asphalt Shingle Roofs?
Asphalt shingle roofs, commonly found on residential and commercial buildings, offer durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal. However, they are susceptible to various forms of damage due to exposure to weather elements, environmental factors, and improper installation or maintenance practices. Understanding the causes of damage to asphalt shingle roofs is crucial for homeowners and roofing professionals alike to identify and address issues promptly, ensuring the longevity and performance of the roof. In this blog post, we will delve into the primary causes of damage to asphalt shingles and offer insights on effectively preventing such damage to your roof.
UV Radiation
One of the primary causes of damage to asphalt shingle roofs is weather-related factors. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can lead to the degradation of asphalt shingles over time, causing them to become brittle, crack, or lose their protective granules. Additionally, frequent temperature fluctuations can result in thermal expansion and contraction of the shingles, leading to warping, curling, or buckling.
Storm Damage
Storm damage to roofs is a common cause of shingle damage and results in lots of insurance claims in certain areas of the US. Wind damage can pose a significant threat, lifting or tearing shingles, especially if they are not properly secured or if the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. Hail is another common cause of shingle damage and roof failure. Hail impacts bruise the shingle and eventually cause degranulation which leaves the fiberglass mat and asphalt of the shingle exposed to the elements which quickly deteriorate the integrity of the shingle leading to leaks and failure. Tornados can destroy a roof and possibly more of the house below. Trees falling from winds will often punch through a roof or collapse the roof altogether.
Storm damage is typically the only kind of damage that a homeowners insurance policy will cover and if it’s severe enough, it’s worth filing a homwowners insurance roofing claim, wind claim, or hail claim to get the costs covered accordingly. Visit our roof insurance claim help page to learn more.
Moisture Infiltration
Another common cause of damage is moisture infiltration. Poor ventilation in the attic can trap excess heat and humidity, leading to condensation and moisture buildup beneath the shingles. Over time, this moisture can compromise the integrity of the roof deck, causing rot, mold, or mildew growth. Similarly, inadequate or damaged flashing around roof penetrations such as chimneys, vents, or skylights can allow water to seep into the roof system, leading to leaks and water damage.
Debris Accumulation
Roof maintenance factors such as debris accumulation can also contribute to roof damage. Leaves, branches, and other debris can accumulate on the roof surface, trapping moisture and promoting the growth of algae, moss, or lichen. These organic materials can degrade the shingles and compromise their performance, leading to premature deterioration.
Improper Installation and Maintenance
In many cases the most important issues with asphalt shingles are improper installation or maintenance practices. These can exacerbate issues and accelerate roof damage. For example, using low-quality materials, improper fastening techniques, or failing to adhere to manufacturer guidelines during installation can compromise the integrity of the roof system. Similarly, neglecting routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning gutters, inspecting for signs of damage, or repairing damaged shingles promptly can leave the roof vulnerable to further deterioration. Hiring the cheapest roofer out there will lead to these problems and cost you more in the long run.
Do you have damage on your asphalt shingle roofs? Next Steps.
Asphalt shingle roofs are susceptible to various forms of damage caused by weather exposure, moisture infiltration, environmental factors, and improper installation or maintenance practices. Regular inspections, maintenance, and timely repairs are essential to identify and address issues promptly, prolonging the lifespan of the roof and ensuring optimal performance for years to come. Additionally, working with qualified roofing professionals and using high-quality materials can help mitigate the risk of damage and preserve the integrity of the roof system.
Roof MD is a licensed, bonded and insured roofing company with an A+ rating with the BBB and 5 star reviews on most sites including Google, Angi and Yelp! Roof MD is a platinum preferred installer with Owens Corning, allowing us to offer the best roofing warranty, material warranty, and workmanship warranty on the market. We also work with all insurance carriers and are the best when it comes to making sure a homeowner is properly compensated on their insurance claim. Contact Roof MD today if you have concern about your roof or just want a free roof inspection.
