Damaged shingles can spell disaster for your roof. Leaks, pests, and damage to the insulation of your attic can all result from damaged shingles. Hail, wind, and extreme weather all place your asphalt shingles at risk. One of the most easily identifiable signs of damage is curling.
What is Curling?
Yes, curling is a fantastic sport, but it’s also an early warning sign of roof damage. When asphalt shingles are damaged, their edges curl up or under the shingle, giving the appearance that the material is bent. When left untreated, these shingles pose a hazard to your roof’s integrity, increasing the risk of leaks and wind damage.
What Causes Curling?
There are many causes of curling shingles.
- Exposure to continuous dry and wet cycles causes moisture to accumulate on the underside of the shingle as it never evaporates completely. This can cause the edges of the shingle to curl up.
- During snowy periods, the shingles may curl due to the low temperature. When snow sits on the roof, the temperature of the shingles lowers to the point that the surface material contracts and bends while the underside struggles to remain flat.
- Poor installation can lead to curling. If the shingle was not nailed down properly, the shingle may move over time, placing strain on the material.
- Poor roof ventilation causes a buildup of moisture in the attic. As the moisture condenses, it can accumulate on the underlayment and the shingles, resulting in a curled shingle.
- Improperly installed adhesive keeps the shingle from laying flat against the roof. Over time, exposure to weather and changing conditions will cause the shingle to expand and contract.
The best way to prevent curling is routine maintenance. Having a licensed roofer, like the experts at Urban Siding, inspect your roof twice a year will go a long way in reducing your risk of leaks.
