Minnesota Residential Roofing Contractor Minneapolis MN

MN Residential Roofing Company – Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacement

You May Need To Replace Your Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles gradually change with the passage of time.  The aging process of asphalt shingles can be broken down into three distinct phases.  The three phases are: the curing phase, the stable phase, and the final phase.  Signs of this aging process may appear as early as the first couple of years, during what is often called:

  • Curing Phase ~ At first, you may notice small surface cracks, or a few small blisters.  These changes will not affect the ability of the asphalt shingles to protect your roof, and are an anticipated part of the aging process.
  • During the Stable Phase, these signs of aging will slow down dramatically.  The duration of the stable phase may last 20-30 years, but is dependent on many factors including the construction of the asphalt shingles, the condition of your roof and roofing ventilation, the slope of your roof, as well as the workmanship of your roofing contractor.
  • Near the end of the expected life of asphalt shingles, the aging process begins to speed up.  This is what is called the Final Phase, during which most homeowners start to think about replacing their asphalt shingles.

Curling:
One of the things you may notice is a slight curling of the shingles along the bottom edge, particularly during cold weather.  This is a normal occurrence of asphalt shingles and results from the natural loss of the oils from the asphalt covering the felt.  As the asphalt loses its oil, it slowly becomes more rigid, and may shrink at a quicker rate than the felt.

Surface Cracking:
Just like skin that has been exposed to the scorching heat of the sun, the surface of asphalt shingles reacts in a similar fashion.  Like your skin, asphalt shingles may develop small surface cracks.  This is a result of asphalt shingles becoming more brittle over time.  Thermal shock and deck movement may also increase the occurrence of surface cracking.

Blisters:
As asphalt shingles age, large bubble-like blisters may appear on the surface, some as large as a quarter.

They may be open, exposing the asphalt, or closed.  Blisters are more likely to appear when there is inadequate ventilation, or in areas where tree sap drips onto the shingles.  Small “rash” blisters do not affect the performance of the shingles.

For the most part, signs of natural aging are to be expected, and do not affect the performance of asphalt shingles. If you think your home might be ready for a new roof, contact a Minnesota residential roofing contractor.