How to tell if your asphalt shingles are bad - Our Guide
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials used throughout Western Massachusetts and they’re also one of the most durable. As long as they’ve been installed properly, it can take a very long time for them to wear out. But there are some tell-tale signs that you need to watch out for if you want your asphalt shingle roof to be in top shape!
Tell-Tale Signs Your Asphalt Shingles Are Bad
1 - Shingles that are curling up or flipping
The edges are one of the most obvious signs that your asphalt shingles need to be replaced. This is especially true if you live in an area where strong winds are common, or you have had a recent hailstorm. Curling definitely decreases the lifespan of your roof, plus it could potentially allow water to penetrate more easily through your roof.
2 - Cracks in the shingles
You'll find a lot of cracks throughout your asphalt shingles if they are starting to wear out. You may be left with a gaping hole or crack after winter, especially if the snowfall was rough, and it is an indicator that you need to have your entire roof replaced as soon as possible. Even if the cracks are shallow and only run along the surface, they're still a very strong sign that you need to replace your shingles as soon as possible.
3 - Your roof is more than 20 years old
This is an extremely obvious one: asphalt shingles lose their strength after about 25-30 years, so if you have a roof that is more than 20 years old, it's probably time to replace it with a new one.
4 - You have noticed mold or algae growing on the asphalt shingles
Not only is this incredibly unsightly, it is also a very big sign that your asphalt shingles need to be replaced right away. If you have noticed mold or algae growing on your roof, it's a clear indication that water is penetrating easily through your shingles and they are providing little to no protection.
What to do if you notice your asphalt shingles are bad?
If you have noticed any of the above signs on your roof, you should schedule a free consultation with one of our professional roofing contractors in Western Massachusetts. They will be able to inspect your entire roof and tell you what needs to be done in order to prevent further damage, or if it is time for your asphalt shingle roof to be completely replaced.
Some signs of shingle damage can be repaired, but rampant curling and cracking cannot. Be sure to catch these issues as soon as possible to ensure your roof's longevity and save you time and money!
Remember: it’s never a good idea to wait until the last minute. The longer that rain water has to penetrate your roof, the worse it will be for your home structure. If you notice any of these problems cropping up, give Roof Pros a call today! We’ll send someone right over to inspect the damage and offer you an estimate if necessary.
