Your roofing system plays a vital role in safeguarding your home from the elements. Over time, you might notice that the shingles appear faded and less vibrant. In some instances, this might be reason enough to contact a roofing contractor for repairs. In other cases, it may not be cause for worry. Here are three specific reasons those shingles may eventually change in appearance.

What Causes Roofing Shingles to Fade?

1. Natural Aging

It’s natural for all roofing systems to undergo some visible changes over the years. The life expectancy of the average shingle roof is approximately 15 to 20 years, at which point those differences in color will be more pronounced. The greater concern is whether the roof is strong enough to handle the elements, which can pose a serious threat to your home’s integrity. Have a roofing contractor assess its overall condition to be safe.

2. Sunlight Exposure

It’s important to remember that not all types of fading are signs of an emergency. Sometimes roofing shingles start to change when they’re exposed to sunlight over the years. You’ll notice it much sooner if you have dark shingles on your home, while lighter shades are more likely to maintain their natural hue over time. The fading may occur in different degrees due to shading that prevents sunlight from flooding the entire roofing system at the same time. If you’re concerned about the color, you can ask your roofer about replacing only those that are discolored.

3. Temperature Control

In addition to preventing the elements from entering your home, a functional roofing system also helps regulate your indoor temperature and air quality. Lighter colored shingles are more reflective than dark shingles, which absorb heat and draw it into the attic. While it’s advantageous to have a light roof during summer, it’s not always practical for your faded shingles to protect your home in the winter. The heat absorbed by darker shingles helps snow melt faster before its weight has the chance to damage the roof. Your roofing contractor can determine whether a new system might be the best choice.

Are you concerned about discolored shingles? Turn to the roofers at Ontario Exteriors. Proudly serving Greater Rochester since 1995, the fully insured company takes pride in providing excellent service from start to finish. The roofing contractors can tackle everything from repairs to siding installation to new roof installation. Visit them online to find out more about how they can improve your roofing system, or call them at (585) 421-0880.