Ritco Group, Inc.

The words “rippled” and “wavy” are commonly used to describe water. They make a person think about the ocean and the way it moves under the sunlight. So, it will probably give you pause when these same words are being used to describe your asphalt shingle roof. You wouldn’t think a whole roof system can appear wavy or rippled, but it actually does happen. In fact, it usually serves as a warning sign that your roof has an underlying problem. 

So, what exactly can cause your asphalt shingle roof to look wavy or rippled? Here’s what you need to know.

Wet Underlayment

Because the components of your asphalt shingle roof are installed in layers, you’ll probably only see its underlayment twice during the system’s lifespan. The roof underlayment refers to a thin waterproof material installed between the decking and the asphalt shingles. It mainly protects the system from water intrusion. If rainwater or moisture somehow found its way past the shingles, the underlayment is there to intercept it and stop leaks from occurring.

One important detail in the roof installation process is making sure the underlayment is completely dry before the shingles are installed over it. Otherwise, the wet underlayment will wrinkle and produce a wavy-like appearance to the finished roof. This is one of the reasons trusted local roofing companies like Ritco Group don’t perform roof installations when it’s raining or damp outside.

Roof Layover

A roof layover is exactly what it sounds like – a new layer of shingles are installed over the old ones. It offers a simpler and more cost-effective way to install a new roof. Unfortunately, this particular way is usually more trouble than it’s worth. A roof layover creates more problems than it solves. For starters, it can void your existing roof warranty. Secondly, the additional weight generated by the new shingle layer puts unnecessary strain on the roof structure. 

What’s more, a layover causes issues with the attic ventilation. The new shingle layer prevents your roof from “breathing”, allowing moisture to become trapped with the old shingles. Over time, the new material will absorb this moisture – and that’s when they’ll start to ripple and curl. As an expert in roofing new construction, Ritco Group doesn’t do roof layovers. We always perform a complete tear-off prior to any new roof installations. This way, the new asphalt shingles won’t inherit the problems of the old one. A tear-off also prevents your roof from becoming a safety risk, while ensuring that your roofing warranty will remain intact.

Thermal Expansion

There are good reasons why most roof installations are done in spring or summer. For one thing, the pleasant weather allows for a quicker and more efficient job. Plus, the roof installation won’t leave the asphalt shingles looking wavy or rippled. When shingles are installed in close to freezing temperatures, the contractor should account for thermal expansion, which means they should leave a gap for roof movement as weather and temperature change down the road. But not all contractors note this specific detail, causing the shingles to ripple from expansion. The worst part about this is that the shingles will need to be removed and replaced again because doing otherwise can shorten the roof’s lifespan.

Incorrect Shingle Placement

Roof installation requires precise workmanship. It’s immediately obvious when the task is performed incorrectly. That’s because the shingles will create a ripple effect on the roof surface. This won’t be a problem if you let a premier roofing company like Ritco Group manage your roof installation. Our highly skilled and experienced team knows how to line and layer shingles correctly, allowing for a roof surface that’s sleek, uniform, and watertight.

Wind Damage

A major weather event can also leave your asphalt shingles looking wavy or rippled. High winds, in fact, can get under the shingles and push them up, making them lose adhesion with the roof. Because the materials are no longer firmly attached to the roof, they become easier to blow off in the next rush of wind. Following the windstorm, you might notice that some of your shingles appear creased and ruffled, or ‘wavy’ if you will. You can have a local roofer inspect your system thoroughly. If wind damage is minimal, replacing the few affected shingles with newer ones might be all it takes. 

Keep in mind that while high winds do blow the shingles off your roof, serious damage can only occur if the system itself is already old and in bad shape. When a large section of your roof is rippled, a complete replacement might be the more ideal solution. You should consider getting started on the project with the assistance of a reliable roofing company like Ritco Group.

Manufacturer Defects

A mistake during the manufacturing process may have left your asphalt shingles flawed. In most cases, the defect will manifest itself as curls or ripples. The good news is that most asphalt shingle roofs come with warranties that provide coverage against material defects, so you only need to call your roof’s original installer for the necessary solution. Ritco Group, for instance, is a GAF Certified Master Elite® roofing contractor. We offer top-tier GAF shingles that are designed for unrivaled beauty and exceptional weather protection. 

But aside from their reliable and long-term performance, you’ll also benefit from the brand’s solid roof warranty coverage. Some of our GAF asphalt shingles come with GAF Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty, which offers 50-year coverage on materials and 25-year coverage on installation. Roof tear-off and cleanup are also included in the warranty, along with a multi-point inspection post-installation by a GAF certified inspector.

Working With Ritco Group

When it comes to professional roof installation, Ritco Group has you covered. Expect no shortcuts, costly mistakes, callbacks, and unnecessary delays – just exceptional workmanship backed by over 50 years of industry experience. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured to ensure your greater protection. Plus, we’re certified by North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, GAF. Choose us for your new roof installation and we’ll never let you down.

Schedule a Roof Evaluation Today

As one of the most trusted local roofing companies, Ritco Group aims to deliver complete client satisfaction through superior workmanship and customer-focused service. You know you’ll always get top-tier results when you work with us. Request roofing quote by calling us at (931) 381-0175 or filling out this contact form. Our service areas include Columbia, Franklin and Brentwood, TN. We look forward to hearing from you!