A professional roofing contractor will warn you if he finds cracks or splits in your shingles during an inspection. These are common problems in asphalt roofs that must be addressed promptly as they could indicate a faulty or deteriorating roofing system.
Asphalt shingle cracks and splits may sound similar, but they are completely different. Continue reading to learn more about them.
Splitting
Significant changes in temperature cause thermal expansion and contraction in asphalt shingles. Warm temperatures cause the shingles to expand while decreasing the size of the joints between them. On the other hand, cold temperatures cause the shingles to contract while increasing the size of the joints between them. This strains asphalt shingles, resulting in splits that could put your roof at risk of leaks and water damage. You’ll need professional roofing services to address the issue.
Cracking
Old asphalt roofs are generally more prone to cracking, especially when they start losing the volatiles that make them flexible and waterproof. These granules are added to shingles during manufacturing, and over time, shingles lose volatiles due to evaporation and moisture. This is usually a sign that you need to replace your roof.
For relatively new roofs, cracking can happen if excessive fillers were added to the asphalt shingle mix. In other cases, it’s a sign of a weak mat or low-quality shingles. That said, always make sure you’re working with a dependable and trustworthy contractor who will guarantee excellent workmanship and use only products from trusted brands.
Empire Roofing & More has over 30 years of experience in the home improvement industry. We specialize in roofing and siding installation services. With a dedicated team, we can deliver superior results for your project and ensure your satisfaction. Call us at (412) 999-7135 (Allison Park) or (412) 414-1570 (Cranberry Township). Alternatively, you can fill out our contact form to request a quote.
