Why Do Asphalt Shingles Fail Before They Should?
Common Reasons Asphalt Shingles Fail Prematurely
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials here in Waseca, Freeborn Counties, Southern Minnesota, and throughout the country. Homeowners love them because they are durable, affordable, and beautiful. When correctly installed and regularly maintained, asphalt shingles should provide you with 20 to 25 years of service. However, premature shingle failure is one of the leading causes of early roof replacement. Like anything else your house is built of, your roofing will not last forever.
This post will explore some common reasons for premature roofing shingle failure. We'll look at how asphalt shingles naturally age, how they can age prematurely, and the steps you can take to prevent the need for early roof replacement.
How Your Asphalt Shingles Age Over Time
As soon as your roof was installed, the clock started ticking. Your new roof came with a manufacturer's warranty of around 25 years and a promise that it would last and continue to function. So, how long will your asphalt shingles actually last? It depends on several factors:
The quality of the shingles. Some material is simply a higher grade and can stand up to the elements better.
How well your contractors installed your roof. Who installed your roof also plays a part in its longevity.
The local climate. This includes both routine weather and high-impact storms.
The level of maintenance. Regular maintenance can add years to the life of your roofing.
While these factors are crucial to your roof's longevity, several additional factors can cause premature roof failure.
Why Roof Shingles Fail
Understanding why and how your shingles can fail prematurely can help you take the proper steps to prevent failure. Below are some of the most common reasons your asphalt shingles can fail before they should.
Poor Attic Ventilation - Poor ventilation can allow moisture to build up under your shingles. This can lead to roof deck movement, which can shorten shingle life. It can also lead to a build-up of heat, which can take its toll on your roof.
A Shallow Pitch - A shallow roof pitch increases the effect of water on your roof. Steeper roofs shed water faster, while water might pool or move slowly on low-pitch or flat rooftops.
Improper Installation - Poor installation is a significant reason for premature roofing failure. This underscores the importance of choosing a reliable contractor to do the job.
Lack of Maintenance - Do not delay minor repairs or let leaks persist for months. Clean your gutters annually and sweep debris off the roof periodically. Annual roof inspections by a professional contractor can identify problems early before they become critical. Lack of regular maintenance is often a cause of premature asphalt shingle failure.
Product Defects - Asphalt shingles are one of the least expensive materials to manufacture. As a result, some manufacturers try to find cheap components to maintain profits. Combine this with a lack of product testing, and premature failure risks grow.
Granule Loss - Asphalt shingles are covered with mineral granules. These granules give your shingles their distinctive color, help direct water flow down the roof, reflect sunlight to reduce heat damage, and improve fire resistance. Granule loss can happen due to weather, repeated foot traffic, excessive sun exposure, or impact from fallen debris like tree limbs.
Moss, Mold, Mildew - Excess moisture, too much shade on your rooftop, or close proximity to salty sea air can encourage the growth of moss, mold, or algae, causing rapid shingle degradation.
Extreme Weather - Extreme weather is also a cause of early roof replacement. While this is something you cannot predict or prevent, its impact can be compounded by improper installation, defective products, and poor maintenance.
Preventing Premature Shingle Death
Every roof will need to be replaced eventually, no matter what. Some causes of damage and early roof replacement may not be preventable, but many are. There are a few proactive steps to reduce your odds of premature shingle failure.
First, choosing superior materials is one of the best ways to extend roof shingle life. High-quality shingles are well-built and have additives that help them better stand up to UV light, fire, wind, water, mold, and more.
Second, working with a reputable roofing contractor can ensure proper installation. Choose your contractor carefully. Check reviews (We have over 50 five-star Google Reviews), talk to previous customers, and check their BBB ratings and other industry standards. Ask them about their experience, safety practices, and recommendations for materials. Don't be afraid to get multiple quotes.
Third, ensure they use quality underlayment and install proper flashing along with the roof material. This can reduce the risk of water getting between the shingles and roof deck or into your home.
Fourth, Ventilate and insulate your attic. This step can reduce heat issues and moisture problems on the roof and extend the life of your asphalt shingles.
Finally, proper maintenance and a little TLC over the life of your roof can lower the odds of premature shingle death and increase the odds of your roof enjoying its maximum lifespan.
Your roof is a critical component that delivers your home's comfort and safety. Simple steps can help you avoid the expense and challenges of early replacement. To learn how to get the most out of your asphalt shingles, talk to a professional roofing contractor.
Do you need a new roof? Do you live in Waseca, Freeborn, or the neighboring Counties in Southern Minnesota? Then you owe it to yourself to call Rooftop Solutions at (507) 400-7663. With 50+ Five-Star Google Reviews, we are not your typical fly-by-night, subcontract-it-out roofing contractor. We are always happy to answer all your questions about asphalt shingles.
