Last Updated on July 14, 2024 by Asfa Rasheed
Roughly 80% of residential homes have an asphalt shingle roof. They’re reliable, affordable, and easy to install.
They do take a little work to maintain them. You have to stay on top of minor issues, or you have major roofing problems to deal with.
Read on to learn what the most common asphalt shingle problems are and how you can prevent major roof damage.
Table of Contents
1. Missing Shingles
This is the most common asphalt roofing problem. Strong winds can blow shingles off. A tree branch can dislodge them, or they weren’t installed correctly.
The best thing to do is contact a roof repair solutions company to handle the issue. Missing shingles expose the underlayment and structure to weather. A lot of damage can happen that creates an unsafe roof.
2. Asphalt Granules
Asphalt shingles dry out and break down over time. High heat can cause the granules that cover shingles to come apart.
If you notice small granules in the gutter or on the ground around your roof, get the roof inspected. The roof could fail because of repeated sun exposure.
3. Mold and Mildew
This is a major concern for homeowners. If there’s mold and mildew under the shingles, then there’s a good chance that the roof structure has water damage. That leads to rot which weakens the roof.
The other concern is that mold and mildew spores enter the attic, which then spread to the entire home.
Mold and mildew are common in high-humidity areas and homes that don’t have a lot of direct sun. Mold and mildew start as minor problems, and it’s best to correct them immediately with
4. Blistering Shingles
Does an area of your roof look like it got hail damage? That is probably blistering.
Blistering occurs when moisture gets trapped in the layers of a shingle. The sun hits the roof, the moisture heats up and expands, causing the shingle to blister and pop.
Moisture can get trapped in the shingle if there isn’t enough ventilation between shingles.
The blister spot is a small area where your shingle gets exposed to more heat and moisture. That small area leaves your underlayment, trusses, and home vulnerable.
5. Cracking and Curling Shingles
If you live in an area where it gets really hot during the day and cold at night, you’re likely to see curling shingles. This is because shingles go through thermal shock.
Shingles expand and contract quickly, leading to curling. Curling is also a sign that the shingles need to be replaced.
Cracking is normal for older asphalt roofs. They age and crack due to repeated exposure to the elements.
It’s not normal for newer shingles. If you see cracking on a new roof, it could be an installation or manufacturing issue. Check your warranty and contact the installation company right away.
The Common Problems of an Asphalt Shingle Roof
An asphalt shingle roof is affordable and provides all of the protection you need. There are some issues with asphalt shingles that you need to be aware of.
Take care of these problems when they happen, and you’ll extend the life of your roof. Visit the Home Improvement section of this site for more helpful home improvement tips.
