Asphalt shingles are a long-lasting solution for protecting your roof, but like any material, they are prone to damage over time. Understanding the types and sources of roof shingle damage can help you protect your home and maximize your roof’s lifespan. Below, learn about the ways that shingles can be damaged by weather and extreme temperatures.

What Are Some Common Types of Shingle Damage?

1. Cracking

When shingles are first installed, they’re flexible and able to shrink and expand with fluctuating temperature cycles. Over time, shingles begin drying and losing their volatiles, chemicals that are added to the asphalt to preserve the shingles. If you live in an area that’s subject to temperature extremes, your shingles will be subject to extra stress, and are more likely to crack or split as they age.

2. Missing

If shingles have gone missing, it’s probably due to a combination of aging fasteners and high winds. A nasty summer storm can pull up any loose shingles and carry them off, leaving patches of the roof bare and prone to water damage. Thankfully, this problem can usually be remedied with expert roof repairs and won’t require a full replacement.

3. Curling

If your attic doesn’t have adequate ventilation, heat and moisture trapped in the space can have a devastating impact on the roof from below. This can cause the edges of shingles to curl and cup upwards. This both makes the shingles more likely to blow off in high winds, and it causes the shingles to hold water, increasing the risk of water damage to your roof and attic.

4. Losing Granules

Asphalt shingles are coated with special granules that give them their unique texture and provide protection against UV rays. It’s natural for your roof to lose granules over time. However, if the loss has rapidly accelerated and you’re noticing a lot of loose grains in your gutters or at the base of drainpipes, the shingles may be due for a replacement.

No matter what problem your roof poses, the professionals at Ford & Son Roofing can fix it. From repairs and routine maintenance to roof replacement and new roof construction, they’re the trusted source for roofing throughout the Cincinnati Tri-State area. To learn about their 75+ years of experience, visit their website, and call (513) 231-1600 for a free quote.