Keeping your asphalt shingle roof in good condition is one way you can ensure its longevity and durability. Issues that can compromise its structural integrity and appearance require a prompt response from an experienced contractor. This is especially true if the problem involves cracking or splitting. They may look the same at first glance, but these are two entirely different forms of damage. Here’s what you need to know about them.
Asphalt Shingle Cracking
The addition of volatiles – chemicals with a low boiling point – during the manufacturing process makes the asphalt shingles flexible and waterproof. Due to long-term exposure to heat and moisture, however, they slowly evaporate, leaving the asphalt component of the shingles to dry, shrink and crack. This can happen not only in old roofs, but in new ones as well. In the case of the latter, it usually means that the roofing materials used during the installation were not of the highest quality.
Asphalt Shingle Splitting
Temperature fluctuations cause the asphalt shingles to expand and contract. The ongoing cycle causes thermal tension, which leads to shingle splitting. As this happens, the rest of the shingle layers start pulling away from each other. Splitting can jeopardize your roof’s weather performance, requiring either roof repair or replacement depending on the severity of the problem.
How Are They Different?
You can tell whether the asphalt shingles have cracked or split when you notice the following:
- Appearance. There are markings on the surface of each individual shingle that distinguish split and cracked shingles from each other, but the hallmark of splitting is a deep gap that extends the entire length of a shingle. Shingle cracks, however, are typically only surface-deep.
- Degree of damage. Splitting and cracking have varying depths. They also provide varying degrees of risk to the roofing system. Water finds a path via splitting and travels straight to the exposed portions of the roof.
To protect your asphalt shingle roof from the threat of cracking or splitting, be sure to work with ImproveIT! of Atlanta for your roof replacement needs. As a top residential roofing contractor, we provide top-rated roofing services, from routine inspections to storm damage repairs and full replacements. Whether you live in Alpharetta, Marietta or Sandy Springs, GA, our team of professionals can help you find the roofing solution that is best suited to your needs and budget. Give us a call at (770) 612-5635, or fill out our convenient online form to request a free, no-obligation estimate today.
