Maximizing Your Home's Asphalt Shingle Roof

Posted on: 28 November 2022

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing option for residential properties. The popularity of asphalt shingles can stem from many advantages that this material can provide, but there are types of damage and other problems that a homeowner may need to anticipate with this type of roofing so that they can be prepared to address these matters.

Asphalt Shingles Can Suffer Water Damage

Some homeowners may be surprised to learn that asphalt shingles can actually be very vulnerable to suffering significant damage from prolonged moisture exposure. One of the most common ways that this can compromise the shingles may be to contribute to blistering. When a shingle is developing blistering, a large air pocket may form under the surface of the asphalt. This is partially the result of water that is trapped in the asphalt expanding as it evaporates. Unfortunately, an asphalt shingle that has started blistering will have to be replaced as this damage may not be repaired. However, regularly cleaning the shingles can limit this damage in the future by removing substances that could trap water against the surface of the asphalt shingles.

The Rate Of Wear And Tear That Your Shingles Experience May Not Be Uniform

Individuals will often assume that their entire roof will suffer wear and tear at largely the same rate. However, it is very common for roofs to experience wear and tear unevenly. For example, the side of the roof that receives the most sunlight and wind will typically degrade the fastest as a result of this exposure. By being aware of this tendency, you may be able to be more observant when it comes to assessing the structural integrity of this area of the home as small leaks and other subtle problems could be the most likely to form in these areas.

There Are Roofing Sealants That May Help To Protect Asphalt Shingles

One option to help extend the life of your roof and limit the number of repairs that will be required can be to have a sealant applied to the asphalt shingles. These sealants can provide the benefits of limiting the ability of water to seep into the asphalt shingles, and they can also block much of the sun's most intense light. While these coatings will be capable of protecting the roof, they will degrade over the years and need to be reapplied. Unfortunately, some homeowners may not be diligent with having these sealants reapplied, and this can severely degrade the results that you get from them.

Contact a professional to learn more about asphalt shingle roofs

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