4 Signs of Asphalt Shingle Damage

As a residential roofing contractor, we’ve always recommended conducting your routine inspections as part of keeping your roof in great shape. In fact, it complements your scheduled roofing maintenance. For your inspections to be effective, you should be able to recognize signs of roofing damage that needs to be addressed by a professional. Here’s a list of things you should keep an eye out for during your next roof inspection.

1. Missing Shingles – Missing shingles can expose the underlying layers of your roof to the elements, and make it vulnerable to water intrusion. When inspecting your roof, make sure to check areas like valleys and parts that are not easily seen from the ground.

2. Curling and Cupping Shingles – Asphalt shingles are installed in a flat layer. If you notice that the shingles are buckling, it’s a sign of extended exposure to the elements, improper attic insulation as well as old age. Shingles can buckle from the middle (cupping) or from the edges (curling). If most of the roof is in this condition, you may be looking at an upcoming roof replacement.

3. Wind-Damaged Shingles – Wind damage makes the shingles look like they were lifted from the edges, regardless of the roof’s age. Most of today’s roofing systems have specific asphalt shingles installation processes to counter this problem, so the improper installation may also play a role. Other signs of wind damage include horizontal creases that appear about an inch below the shingle overlap.

4. Granules in the Runoff – When you inspect your gutters, look for granules in the runoff, or in the gutters. While it is normal for a few pieces of granules to come off, it’s a different case when you’re seeing more than a handful at any given time. This means the outer layer of the shingles are losing its adhesion. Eventually, the asphalt layer will become exposed, which will significantly reduce your roof’s ability to protect your home from the elements.

If you notice one or more of these signs, you’ll need professional residential roofing services. Call Dior Construction today at (201) 470-5077. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation quote. We serve Bergen County, NJ, and the surrounding areas.