Roof shingles are an essential component of any roofing system. They serve as the first line of defense against the elements, protecting your home or building from wind, rain, and snow. But what exactly do roof shingles do, and why are they so important?
Your Shingles Are Part of a Roofing System
Remember, your shingles are part of an integrated roof system. Your shingles aren’t the only thing keeping you dry; it’s how your roof works together with them to keep your home secure. After the decking has been installed, a strip of shingles is placed at the edge to keep water out while an underlayment sits beneath them as another barrier against water infiltration. Finally, all shingles are finished off with another layer for extra protection.
How Do Your Ringles Work?
Asphalt shingles were once popular due to their simplicity, affordability, and ease of installation. Over the years, they proved reliable – still doing so today. But how can your shingles ensure your roof stays dry when it rains?
Asphalt shingles are secured to your roof by nails and each other, keeping them from being lifted during windstorms. An adhesive applied to the shingles provides extra security that they won’t fall off during heat activation. Furthermore, as these shingles overlap, water cannot get between their cracks – why don’t you have multiple layers of protection for maximum water resistance?
What happens to the water that falls on your roof as a droplet? Depending on its landing spot, it will either settle near the flashing around your chimney or right next to your gutter. Water follows gravity downward and moves around small pieces of asphalt shingles, gradually eroding them away.
Water can seep towards the edge of a roof shingle if they begin to lift, potentially allowing water to seep under them and into your deck and underlayment. Conversely, suppose your shingles are tightly fitted and overlap well. In that case, water will run along their edge and eventually end up in your gutter system.
Asphalt Shingles Are a Core Element of Your Home Decor
Asphalt shingles not only protect your home from weather damage, but they can also add an eye-catching aesthetic. Choose shingles in various colors to match your trim, paint, or landscaping, or install them with interesting patterns for a striking roof line. Today’s asphalt shingles are more than just black sheets of material that don’t offer visual interest. These modern asphalt sheets offer functional beauty as well.
Dangers to Your Shingles
Weather damage to your shingles can occur over time due to exposure. Wind, rain, snow, and ice wear down their protective coating over time; additionally, these elements may get underneath your shingles and lift them gradually, causing further harm.
If your gutters overflow and back up, water or debris could accumulate along the edge of your roof. Water and debris may also collect behind them and seep into fascia boards, leading to structural damage and softening in nearby areas.
Winter weather, particularly ice, poses another potential threat to your roof shingles. Snow that falls onto your roof could melt if temperatures are warmer than surrounding air; this leads to water seeping into your gutters; however, if temperatures drop enough, this water will turn into ice when it meets with the gutter. Water and ice buildup under your shingles cause cracking over time.
Wind can damage your shingles in several ways. Wind may lift shingles that are loose from water or rot and cause them to fly off your roof; branches may fall, or debris could land on top of your shingles, potentially leading to further damage.
Avoid roof damage caused by missing or damaged shingles. Your roof should also be built to support all roofing materials for maximum strength and stability.
Preventing Damage to Shingles
These are the potential hazards to which shingles may be exposed. Avoid planting near your home and trim branches that could fall onto your roof to reduce their exposure. Furthermore, make sure everything around your shingles is in working order; for instance, gutters need to be cleaned regularly, and a gutter cover installed for added protection.
Install your shingles with a reliable company to avoid damage due to rain and wind. For optimal strength, ensure they are secured using proper spacing and angle.
Your roof must be able to support your shingles. A roofing professional should inspect for any issues and install flashing where required. Furthermore, ensure that your attic has adequate ventilation to prevent moisture accumulation.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material but have advantages and drawbacks. What are the pros and cons of using asphalt shingles?
Asphalt shingles should only be installed during mild weather conditions. They are more vulnerable to damage caused by branches and smaller trees than metal roofs. Furthermore, asphalt shingles are cost-effective and easy to install compared to metal roofs due to their affordability; installation can often save more money than purchasing the materials outright. Asphalt shingles also make recycling asphalt products like pavement more sustainable and increasingly aesthetically pleasing, with new colors appearing regularly.
Get a FREE Estimate
If you require a new roof or considering replacing your old, worn-out shingles, look no further than Old Time Roofing. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to providing top-quality roofing solutions that meet your needs and exceed your expectations. With various materials, colors, and styles, we can help you find the perfect roof shingles to match your home or building’s aesthetic and protect it from the elements for years. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your roof shingle installation project.
Other Services We Offer
Old Time Roofing is a dedicated team of experts that can help you with the following:
Roofing materials that we work with:
Refrain from entrusting your roofing needs to just anyone. With Old Time Roofing, you can rest easy knowing that your roof is in capable hands.