Fixing Curling Shingles

When an asphalt shingle is placed on a roof, it should lay flat or as close to flat as possible. If it begins to curl, it is a sign that the shingle may be defective, which could expose the rest of the house to water and other forms of damage. However, a Toms River roofing professional may be able to diagnose why a shingle is curling and replace curling shingles before they lead to more widespread damage.

A shingle may begin to curl because it is old or because it has become too moist. On average, an asphalt shingle should last between 15-20 years depending on weather conditions and how well the roof has been maintained. Therefore, if it has been a while since the shingles have been installed, they may simply be at the end of their useful life.

If shingles are too moist, it may mean that there is improper ventilation in the attic. It may be necessary to add more attic vents to allow air to properly circulate. When there is improper circulation, temperatures can rise and moisture can begin to collect on the shingle.

In the event that poor air circulation is leading to moisture buildup, it may also be necessary to check the attic and roof deck for water damage.

Shingles may also start to curl if they have been installed improperly. If a contractor fails to follow the nail line guide or the guide was marked improperly by the manufacturer, it could result in the shingles not adhering to each other as they should. This could result in the shingle curling either outward or inward depending on the type of error that was made.

If a shingle is not nailed correctly, it could allow the shingle to rise or fall as the weather meanders between hot and cold cycles. Depending on the time of year, it could very well be above freezing during the day and below freezing at night, which could lead to the shingle shifting multiple times a day. A risen nail is the best sign that something is wrong with the shingle and could be the reason why it has begun to curl.

While it can’t cause curling on its own, exposure to high winds can exacerbate curling of shingles. Those who live in windy areas may want to have a professional take a look at their shingles after a wind storm as curling may be a sign of other damage lurking at or below the shingle level. The roofing experts at Fortified Roofing of Toms River NJ can answer your questions about new roofs or skylights.

Term explained by roofing company Fortified Roofing, Toms River NJ:

Nail Line Guide

The nail line guide shows where a contractor should place nails and other fasteners to properly secure a shingle to the roof deck. It is usually a solid line painted on the surface of the shingle.

Question answered by Toms River roofing company Fortified Roofing:

Can a roofing professional replace just a few shingles at a time?

Yes, it is possible to only remove shingles that are curled or otherwise defective while leaving the good shingles in place. This can save time and money while ensuring that your roof remains effective in protecting your home against the elements such as wind, water and excess sunlight.

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