If you have a composition shingle roof there many conditions can affect the performance of the shingles.
The first is correct installation.
Proper installation
If the shingles were not installed according to the manufacturers specifications (ARMA Manual), the manufacturer may not honor the warranty. Homeowners insurance can deny coverage of an incorrectly installed roof. And if the shingles have exposed fasteners (one of the cardinal rules, no exposed fasteners) they will expand and contract at different rates than the shingles, and if not properly covered can be a source of moisture intrusion.
All shingles are manufactured for an certain amount “exposure,” which means that a part of the shingle must be exposed while a portion must be covered (by the shingle above). If they are installed without the correct exposure they may be subject to “wind tear off.”
Normal wear and tear
There are conditions that are normal “wear and tear.”
Granule loss is one of them. The shingles are coated with ceramic granules, and the “job” of the granules is to protect the shingle “Mat” from the sun’s UV rays. Over time the asphalt and granules lose their bond and normal weather conditions, such as rain and wind, displace the granules. Too much granule loss will lead to premature failure of the shingles.
The life span of the shingles can be greatly reduced by conditions such as tree debris (leaves, pine needles, moss, etc.).
Proper attic ventilation
Another crucial factor is correct ventilation of the attic space, especially in summer and winter months.
Excess heat in the summer will, on average, reduce shingle life by ten (10) years. The average family of four generates two to four gallons of water vapor a day (indoors) through such activities as cooking, bathing, washing clothes and dishes. If this moisture is not adequately removed it can have a negative affect on the shingles. What’s more, it can also lead to structural damage and microbial growth which can be an health problem.
Multiple layers of shingles
More than one layer of shingles on your roof does not mean better protection for your home.
In fact, too many layers can have negative affects on the structural stability of the home. Furthermore, more than one layer does not allow for sufficient ventilation of the top layer of shingles. Adequate ventilation of the shingles is important, otherwise your home’s shingles will not perform to their design potential and the life expectancy of the top layer can be reduced by as much as ten (10) years.
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