5 Kinds of Asphalt Shingle Damage You Shouldn’t Ignore

In our experience as a roofing contractor, we have found that the best way to get the most out of your system is to conduct regular roofing inspections. It complements scheduled professional roofing maintenance, which addresses problems like asphalt shingle damage before it can get worse. When inspecting your roof, keep an eye out for the following kinds of asphalt shingle damage:

1. Loose or Missing Shingles – High winds and impact from hailstones or airborne debris can dislodge whole shingles from your roof. Loose or missing asphalt shingles are fairly easy to spot, and should be repaired before it rains. Missing shingles expose the underlayment to water intrusion, which can later damage the roof deck.

2. Wind Stress Marks – Another kind of wind damage is less noticeable, yet can also be entry points for rainwater when not addressed. Stress from high winds may appear as horizontal creases about an inch below the shingle overlap. These creases expose the shingle backing material, and if you have organic shingles, it could get worn out within a short time. The roof edges may also display signs of wind stress.

3. Missing Flashing – Flashings are the strips of metal that protect valleys, the part where the roof meets a wall or a dormer, and other breaks in the roofing plane. While not actually shingles, they are an important part of the roofing system. This means if flashing is dislodged or missing, call for roofing services as soon as possible.

4. Curling and Cupping Shingles – Years of wear and tear can take their toll on asphalt shingles. Old shingles tend to buckle, either from the edges or from the center – curling or cupping, respectively. Cracks may also appear at this point. If this is a widespread condition, you should plan a roof replacement, to be completed in the next few years.

5. Granules in the Gutters – In addition to inspecting your roof, check the contents of your gutters, as well as the area where the downspouts terminate. You might find some granules in the gutters, which is normal if you find only a few. However, if your gutters look like someone dumped a morning’s worth of used coffee grounds in it, this means the shingles are getting worn out and will need to be replaced.

To learn more about our roofing and siding installation, repair and maintenance services, call Gut-R-Dun Exteriors today at (937) 422-7709. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We serve many areas in and near Huber Heights, Kettering and Springboro, OH.