Popular since the early years of the 20th century, asphalt shingles fulfill the need for an economical and fire-resistant roof covering. Decades of product innovations and transformations later, they continue to be the go-to roofing material for most homeowners because they combine beauty, durability, longevity and cost-effectiveness.
However, as with other things, asphalt shingles don’t last forever. As soon as they’re completely installed by roofing and restoration companies, they become exposed to various elements, from the blistering heat of the sun to the strong wind-carried rain brought about by a severe thunderstorm. These lead to the material’s aging or weathering, which is a natural occurrence that eventually results in the roof’s deterioration and replacement. How well an asphalt shingle roof ages depends on a variety of important factors, which we will take a look at in this in-depth read.
The Components of An Asphalt Shingle Roof
Asphalt shingles act as the primary water-shedding surface of a typical residential roofing system. When installed properly, they prevent rainwater runoff from seeping through the rest of the roof’s layers and into the attic and interior. They also play a vital role in the aesthetics of a home; available in a wide range of colors, textures, and profiles, they create the unique look that sets the property apart from the rest of the neighborhood.
Asphalt shingles, however, are not the only ones that play a vital role in protecting your family and belongings against harsh weather. Remember that your residential roofing system is composed of other components that work together to ensure its longevity and performance. These are the following:
- Underlayment – Sandwiched between the asphalt shingles and the decking, the underlayment acts as a secondary water barrier that protects against moisture intrusion.
- Ice and Water Barriers – These are similar to the underlayment, but they’re developed to protect valleys and other vulnerable areas of the roof where water could seep through.
- Starter Strip Shingles – During a roof installation, the pros install the starter strips first before placing the actual asphalt shingles on the first course. They’re installed at the eaves to protect these areas from potential water penetration and blow-offs.
- Hip and Ridge Shingles – These shingles are installed near the roof’s hips and ridges. They also tend to be thicker than the standard shingles to give your roof a neat-looking appearance and to protect against leaks.
- Ventilation – A well-balanced roof ventilation system has intake and exhaust vents that draw fresh air into the attic and expel moisture to the outside. It is a crucial part of your roof because it helps eliminate moisture issues that can wreak havoc on your asphalt shingles, especially in both summer and winter.
Factors Affecting Asphalt Shingle Roof Weathering
A weathered asphalt shingle roof can look unkempt, but it doesn’t necessarily mean one or more of its components are damaged. A thorough inspection, however, can determine the overall state of the roofing system. An older roof is prone to further deterioration, necessitating an immediate roof replacement.
Here’s a look at some of the factors that affect how an asphalt shingle roof ages and weathers over time.
- Shingle Quality – Investing in high-quality shingles offers several benefits. For one, you make sure your roof gets a boost in terms of strength and durability. You can rest easy knowing that it can withstand extreme weather and daily elemental exposure. More importantly, they last longer, especially when well-maintained. The same can’t be said for low-quality shingle products, which are prone to early failure and frequent but costly maintenance. When you want your roof to be replaced, see to it that the contractor you hire is certified to install roofing products from the top manufacturers.
- Pitch or Slope – The roof’s pitch or slope determines how it sheds water. It also plays an important role in your home’s aesthetics. Roofers consider several factors such as the local climate and building codes. Steep-sloped roofs, for instance, can shed water better, but they can put pressure on the gutters that have to withstand a high rate of water flow. Low-sloped ones have to undergo frequent inspections to ensure there are no issues such as standing water.
- Local Climate – Almost every type of weather is experienced in Texas, including intense summer heat, torrential rains, powerful winds, and damaging hail. These harsh conditions can contribute to the normal wear and tear and eventual deterioration of your asphalt shingle roofing system.
- Color – Dark-colored shingles are ideal in areas experiencing wet weather for most of the year. They tend to absorb heat faster than their counterparts, allowing the roof to dry faster and prevent moisture accumulation. Light-colored shingles, meanwhile, are widely common in areas with warmer climates. They reflect the sunlight and the heat and harmful UV rays that come with it.
- Structure Orientation – The direction that your asphalt shingle roof is facing can affect how long it will last. Most of the time, south-facing roofs have a shorter lifespan because they are more exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Thermal expansion occurs as a result of this, increasing the roof’s rate of deterioration.
The Importance of Asphalt Shingle Roof Maintenance
Keeping your asphalt shingle roofing system in good condition helps ensure you don’t waste any bit of this important investment. Even the smallest issue can grow worse if you fail to address it, which is why you need to have every part of your roof, from the shingles to the attic, periodically checked.
Roof maintenance is usually done at least twice a year; in the spring and in the fall. However, that will still depend on how old your roof is and whether the area where you live experiences inclement weather most of the time. If it is already 10 years old, you might want to have it inspected every year. After a violent storm passes your area, be sure to call a local contractor as soon as the weather is clear.
Anderson Restoration LLC offers a wide range of roofing services for homeowners in the local area. These include immediate roof repair as part of our storm damage restoration, roof replacement and roof maintenance programs. To learn more about them, give us a call at (281) 376-7474 (Houston/Cypress) or (817) 226-2111 (Grapevine). You may also fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.
