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Common Problems with an Asphalt Shingle Roof
Asphalt shingles have long been a popular roofing option, for many good reasons. They are easily accessible, affordable, and incredibly versatile in their style applications. However, that doesn’t mean they are without issues. There are some problems with asphalt roof shingles that all homeowners should be aware of when choosing their roofing material. Being aware of these problems beforehand–and the different possible alternatives–will help you to make a more educated decision about your roofing choices.
Shingle Problem #1: Blistering
One of the most common asphalt shingle issues that contractors are called out to fix is blistering. This happens when moisture trapped within the shingle expands and pops/breaks through the surface and creates an exposed spot. Most of the time, blistering occurs during the high-temperature summer months. There are many origins for blistering. One of which is when moisture makes its way into the shingle during the manufacturing process. For a little bit of background, shingles typically consist of three main layers: A fiberglass backing, a coating of asphalt, and then the granules on the top. If moisture somehow makes its way between any of these layers, the potential for blistering is higher.
Another reason for blistering is poor ventilation of the roof that creates trapped moisture. Improper ventilation is the cause of many shingle roofing problems, so it’s critical to make sure the contractor is installing the shingles to allow for adequate ventilation and airflow. Blistering exposes your roof, decking, and property to the elements, which can ultimately lead to leaking and premature failure of the roof system. That’s why it’s critical to address any blistering spots sooner rather than later. Additionally, blistering can sometimes resemble hail damage on your roof. Still, most contractors or roofing repair professionals can tell the difference and provide the best fitting solution.
Shingle Problem #2: Curling
The next common asphalt shingle roofing problem is curling. If you’re looking up at a shingle roof and see the edges of the shingle lifting off the roof’s surface or the corners turning upward, you’re seeing curling.
There are a several reasons that your shingles are curling, including:
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The shingles are nearing the end of their useful lifecycle. Eventually, shingles will start to shrink up and curl, which is a sign that it might be time for a new roof.
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The shingles were improperly installed. For example, misaligning the shingles during the installation or roofing over existing shingles that weren’t level (without a roof tear-off) could cause curling.
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There are existing ventilation issues where trapped moisture has caused the shingles to curl.
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One of the most popular reasons that shingles curl is due to a phenomenon called thermal shock. Thermal shock refers to when the high temperature of the roof suddenly cools rapidly. For example, if you have a warm day, the roof temperature will be higher because shingles absorb a lot of heat. Then, perhaps the weather quickly changes, cools down, and causes the roof to drop in temperature. This thermal shock can affect your shingle roof and start to create a curling effect as it happens over and over.
Shingle Problem #3: Cracking
The next issue you want to look for is any cracking taking place on the shingles’ surface. Cracking is pretty easy to spot on your roof’s visible areas. Cracking is a natural part of the aging process for shingles. Over time, wind, roof stresses, thermal movement, and deck movement aid in a shingle cracking. So, if your roof is older and some surface cracks don’t completely split or tear through the shingles, it’s most likely because the shingles are older. What you want to look out for is any premature cracking on a newer shingle roof. This could indicate that something happened during the installation, that there is a manufacturer defect that created a tainted product, or that there isn’t adequate ventilation for the roof system. Again, cracking shingles are something you want to address immediately, as it can compromise the water-tightness of the roof if left unfixed.
Shingle Problem #4: Granule Loss
The next problem you might notice on your shingle roof is granule loss, which is where the top layer detaches from the shingle and falls off. For a little bit of background, the granules added to the top layer of a shingle are finely crushed stones or ceramic that have pigment (organic and in-organic types) applied to them. In addition to the color that granules provide, it also creates a protective barrier to prolong the life of the shingle roof.
All shingle roofs will experience some level of granule loss over time due to weathering and exposure. However, if a large number of granules are in your gutter or specific spots of your roof are missing significant granules, it could be several causes, including:
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The asphalt in the middle layer was not applied evenly or consistently throughout the shingle and has created an adhesion issue.
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The roof overheated, melted the asphalt, and caused granule loss.
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The roof is not properly ventilated, so there’s a problem in the property itself, the attic space, the insulation, or beyond.
If granules fall off at a high rate and the problem isn’t addressed, it can lead to clogged or blocked gutters, overall UV damage to the exposed shingle, leaking, or roof failure.
Shingle Problem #5: Mold, Mildew, & Algae
These occurrences are especially common in high-humidity areas and on northern-facing roofs that are heavily shaded or rarely get sun. Most of the time, the algae, mildew, and algae, which often looks like black streaks down a roof, are cosmetic issues that can be remedied. There are anti-algae shingles available for purchase if you’re concerned about organic substance growth.
Shingle Problem #6: Missing Shingles
Since shingles are installed piece by piece, it’s possible for individual shingles to unattach and/or come off the roof.
This can happen for many reasons, including:
- A strong wind lifted the edge of the shingle and disengaged it.
- Something impacted or hit the roof and caused the shingle to disengage.
- The sealing on the back of the shingle (black strip in the middle of the shingle) is broken/brittle.
- The shingle was installed at too low of a temperature, and the seal couldn’t become engaged.
- The seal was never properly engaged in the first place.
When a shingle comes off your roof, it’s best to get that repaired and replaced as soon as possible. Not fixing it can leave your home or business exposed to the elements for an extended period of time and create another problem on top of the missing shingle (think water damage).
Shingle Problem #7: Gloeocapsa Magma
You may not be able to say it, but you’ve probably seen it. Gloecapsa Magma is a type of bacteria that has a green-blue algae looking appearance. It can result in unappealing black streaks going down your asphalt shingle roof. This bacteria tends to thrive in hot and humid climates and unfortunately, preventing damage from it is hard to avoid. The bacteria originates in rivers and ponds and can be transported onto the roof by either birds or the wind. While also taking away from a roof’s curb appeal, gloeocapsa magma can cause problems to the durability of the shingles. Asphalt shingles contain limestone that the bacteria will eat away at that makes the shingles weaker overtime. Having weak shingles increases the chances of your roof needing repairs from shingles either breaking or blowing away.
Final Thoughts on Problems with Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Every roof system, whether it’s shingles, metal, tiles, or other materials, will have some potential problems that could happen. It’s best to be prepared, but also understand that some of the problems we outlined above might never even spring up.
Remember:
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Choosing a qualified and reputable contractor is a critical part of avoiding potential problems.
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Make sure to do routine checks of your shingle roof to look for any warning signs.
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Do not try to fix the problem yourself or without professional assistance.
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Thoroughly review the warranty and what it does and doesn’t cover before you buy.
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Ask questions and remain educated on potential problems.