The Most Common Causes of Shingle Cupping
Have you noticed several concave depressions on your roof? They’re signs of shingle cupping. How does shingle cupping affect your roof? Dry Tech Construction, one of your local roofing companies, explains in this guide.
The Usual Culprits Behind Shingle Cupping
Poor ventilation - Wear and tear and old age are the usual culprits behind shingle cupping, but if your roof was recently installed, poor ventilation may be to blame. Your roof is composed of several layers, with your shingles the outermost one. Without proper ventilation, moisture may become trapped in some of these layers. And if heat builds up and the trapped moisture expands, shingle cupping may occur.
Shingles that weren’t stored properly - Exposure to the elements can damage shingles or deposit moisture in them.
Manufacturer defects - Asphalt binds UV-resistant granules to the surface of asphalt shingles. If the manufacturer didn’t use enough asphalt in the shingles, the granules might not adhere properly to the surface. While some degree of granule loss is expected over the course of a shingle’s lifespan, your roof will be left vulnerable to UV damage and premature aging—and by extension shingle cupping—if it loses too many granules. However, you shouldn’t worry too much if high-quality shingles from well-known brands were used. These shingles underwent strict quality control, so it’s highly unlikely that they’ll have any defects. Remember: When in doubt about the quality of a certain roofing shingle, it’s best to stick to reputable brands such as GAF®.
Installation errors - Moisture can infiltrate the asphalt shingles if they weren’t installed properly. That’s why it’s important to vet roofing contractors before hiring them.
Why Cupped Shingles Should Be Replaced Immediately
Cupped shingles are extremely fragile and can be easily dislodged. In fact, merely stepping on them can cause them to break. As such, they should be replaced as soon as possible.
Dry Tech Construction offers commercial and residential roofing services. To get a free estimate, call us at (707) 328-5216 or fill out this form.