Orlando Roofer: Extend The Life Of Your Asphalt Shingles

Your roof is a big investment, and though you may not think of it very often, there are a few things you can do to extend its lifespan. In this weeks blog we continue our article on what compromises the life of your roof.

High Heat 

Intense heat can be particularly hard on your roof, especially the sealants and caulk. Warping and cracking typically occur, which leaves your roof vulnerable to moisture and damage. The effects can be more evident when the cool nights meet with high temperatures during the day, causing contraction and expansion of metal and other materials.

Wind Damage

Strong winds are prevalent here in Central Florida, it is important to check for misplaced or missing shingles. As the saying goes, “Your roof is only as strong as the weakest shingle”. When one shingle is damaged, the whole roof is compromised.

Hail Damage

Our weather is unpredictable, hail can come out of nowhere and the damage to your roof isn't always visible. Look for dents or depressions (which aren't always evident), on asphalt shingles, metal flashing, chimney caps, siding, and skylight flashings.

GAF, North America's largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing, explains the most common types of hail damage?

Granule loss at points of impact, which may be accompanied by surface depression. Loss of mineral granules as an immediate or gradual consequence of storm damage can lead to the asphalt coating being directly exposed to the elements. This may lead to accelerated aging of the shingle. Therefore, granule loss is NOT just cosmetic damage, and “sugaring” — the process of adding loose granules to damaged shingles with asphalt cement — is not a permanent solution.

Cracks in the granule-asphalt surfacing, which may radiate outward from points of impact.

Cracks may be present especially if high winds blew the shingles back.

Exposed fiberglass mat, where hail shattered the granule-asphalt surfacing causing it to break away from the fiberglass mat.

Fractured fiberglass mat, which may or may not be immediately visible. A fractured mat may result in tears radiating out from the points of impact. Furthermore, hidden damage to the mat may later develop into cracks and tears in time as the shingles age.

Loosening of the self-seal strip. This damage may or may not be immediately visible and may weaken the seal integrity, creating the possibility of future shingle blow-off

Your best protection is a professional roof inspection

Having an experienced roofer inspect every aspect of your roof, ensuring the shingles are in good shape, remove any debris, and check the gutters, can save you time, money, and injury. Climbing up on the roof can be dangerous. In fact, in the United States over 2.1 million people went to the emergency roof for ladder related injuries, according to a study done by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine

Choose a quality roofing company 

As a leader in the industry, Schick Roofing is proud to provide quality roof roof repairs and replacement at an affordable price. Our integrity and a high standard work ethic is paramount to our business and the way we treat our customers.

Schick Roofing is proud to be one of the few roofing companies here in Central Florida who have earned the GAF Master Elite contractor certification. It is such a distinguished achievement that only the top 3% of roofers throughout the country have obtained such an accomplishment.

At Schick Roofing, we have a policy of no hidden fees. This helps to build and maintain trust with our customers, set appropriate expectations for the project, and ensure you are happy with the end result.