Do You Need New Shingles?
Ah, it isn’t any new ‘news’, but the climate and weather here in the Houston, Texas area can be concerning for a homeowner. It all can be damaging to homes and surrounding property, especially the roofing. When it comes to choosing a durable roof, an asphalt shingle roof installation is a popular choice.
Within the category of asphalt shingle roof installation, there are three primary types of asphalt shingles to choose from.
What are those three types of asphalt shingles?
- 3-tab: The name comes from the cut of the shingle, which is simply strips of asphalt. This is the original material of asphalt shingle roof installation and the most basic of asphalt shingles. They are manufactured with a single layer of asphalt, giving them a flat appearance. These are lighter weight than the other two types of asphalt shingles. They are the least expensive and have the shortest lifespan between 12 and 15 years.
- Architectural: Also referred to as laminate shingles and are the most prevalent of the three types of asphalt shingles. These are manufactured with a minimum of two layers fused, creating a multi-dimensional look. These are heavier than the 3-tab asphalt shingles, cost more, and last longer, up to 20-year lifespan. When a natural slate or wood shake type of roofing is desired, these can be manufactured to replicate at the lower cost of an asphalt shingle roof installation.
- Luxury: These are the highest quality of asphalt shingle roof installation material. The manufacturing process gives them an outclassed, differentiated appearance. These are the heaviest in asphalt shingles which provide a premium level of protection and a stunning look for a home. They provide a longer lifespan, up to 50 years.
What type of damage are asphalt shingles susceptible to?
No matter which type of asphalt shingles you choose, you need an asphalt shingle roof installation to be done by an experienced contractor with the best quality of shingle you can afford. The better the quality, the better they can withstand the following common problems:
- Curling: This occurs when the corners or edges curl, which is typically associated with aging, poor attic ventilation, or poor installation. This problem is easily repaired by replacing the curled shingles.
- Cracking: This happens during the natural aging process, extreme weather conditions, or poor asphalt shingle roof installation. A waterproof sealant filling the small cracks can be done for quick repair, but larger cracks will require the cracked shingles to be replaced.
- Blistering: This problem appears as raised sections on the shingles that resemble bubbles. Poor attic ventilation or trapped water can cause blistering, which can be repaired by replacing the affected shingles.
- Missing Shingles: If an asphalt roof shingle installation isn’t done correctly, or when hard, high winds blow common to Houston, Texas, can dislodge and blow shingles off a roof. If these shingles are replaced, leaking becomes a strong possibility, causing more damage.
- Algae and Moss: These substances appear and spread on a roof that holds moisture and doesn’t have much sunlight exposure. A routine of regular cleaning with specialized solutions or treatments will remove these substances and keep an asphalt shingle roof installation healthy.
- Granule Loss: The granules on asphalt shingles give the roof fire resistance and protection against UV rays. When there is an excessive granule loss, associated with aging, hail damage, hard rains, and high winds the shingles deteriorate quickly. When 25% or more of the roof has granule loss, a new asphalt shingle roof installation is needed.
Are asphalt shingles installed directly to the plywood roof decking?
Humidity is a daily concern in the Houston, Texas area, therefore, direct asphalt shingle roof installation over an insulated roof decking is not recommended unless there is an adequate and continuous ventilation space. Adequate and proper ventilation must be in place for the heat to be dissipated heat to keep the humidity from building up under the roof sheathing.
Is an asphalt shingle roof installation done with nails or staples?
The fastening method is key in keeping the asphalt shingles in position where hard, high winds are common. Roofing nails or stapling are both acceptable options.
Is a vapor barrier important in an asphalt shingle roof installation?
If proper, continuous ventilation isn’t possible, then yes, a vapor barrier is essential with an asphalt shingle roof installation. Without a vapor barrier, water builds up under the asphalt shingles from condensation as the temps cool down at night.
In Closing
The humidity and moisture build-up can be minimized by keeping the attic ventilated and keeping the roof clear of leaves, algae, and mildew. This can be done with a professional roof cleaning once a year. Professional roof inspections every two to three years will help as well, allowing the roofing contractor to find small issues before they become bigger, expensive problems. For an asphalt shingle roof installation in Houston, TX, please give us a call at 281-300-4363.