Asphalt is the most popular roofing material in the U.S. It’s known for its durability, cost-effectiveness and wide range of styles. However, like all components of your home, they begin to age once exposed to the elements.
Learn how to assess the condition of your asphalt roof now.
Common Signs of Aging Shingles
Ultraviolet (UV) rays, pollution, snow, ice, hail, fallen tree limbs and foot traffic can speed up roof aging. Curling normally occurs in shingles and aren’t considered a defect. As asphalt ages, it shrinks, which causes a little curling of the shingle edge.
Minor cracks may also be present, but according to experts, it’s just a weathering characteristic. It’s not something to worry about if the cranks don’t penetrate through the shingle, and the roof is still shedding water properly.
In humid areas, dark brown or black streaks on the roof are common as a result of algae growth. While they affect the appearance of the roof, they don’t limit the ability of shingles to shed water. Some granule loss is also normal after a roof storm repair or replacement.
When to Contact a Roofing Professional
Blisters are small circular raised areas that are often caused by insufficiently ventilated attics or excessive plastic cement use. They can affect the efficiency of shingles when not repaired. Open blisters also make the roof susceptible to leaks.
Inadequate roof ventilation can cause shingles to buckle. Deep cracks penetrating the fiberglass mat should be inspected because they can make the roof prone to water infiltration. Further, excessive granules that expose the asphalt require immediate professional attention.
Regular maintenance and inspections can help extend the lifespan of your roof. For your residential roofing needs, choose Ritco Group We offer quality home renovations, roofing and new construction services. Give us a call at (931) 381-0175 or (931) 215-9850. You may also fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We serve homeowners in Brentwood and Murfreesboro, TN.