Asphalt Shingle Cracks And Splits: Differences And Causes

Asphalt shingles provide reliable protection against the elements. However, much like other roofing materials, they can also be prone to damage if they are poor quality or eventually deteriorate due to age. Cracking and splitting are two common issues in asphalt shingles. 

When temperatures change, asphalt shingles go through thermal expansion and contraction. Hotter temperatures expand the shingle material and decrease the joints between the shingles. When the temperature cools, the shingles contract and the joints become bigger. 

Consistent temperature changes can cause the joints to keep moving and reduce the effectiveness of the adhesive strips on the shingles. This leads to shingle splitting, which typically occurs in diagonal patterns. Make sure to call a shingle roofer to inspect your roof and address the problem. Failure to fix your roof immediately increases the risk of wind damage and leaks.

Cracks happen because of moisture infiltrating the asphalt shingle material. If your roof is relatively new, the cracks could be due to excessive fillers in the asphalt mix, indicating poor quality.

Asphalt shingles also lose their volatile chemicals over time, which makes them prone to cracking. Volatiles give the asphalt shingles their flexibility and water resistance. So, when shingles lose volatiles, it means they’re already susceptible to damage from the elements. Call local roofers for free roof estimates so that you’ll get an idea of how much your roof repair or replacement will cost.

At Punum Roofing of Houston, Inc., you can expect top-notch craftsmanship and superior customer service. We listen attentively to our clients, so we can meet all their roofing needs. Call us at (713) 466-4447, or fill out this contact form for a free consultation.