Asphalt shingles are expected to last 20 to 30 years and as they get older, they start to show signs of wear and tear. While aged shingles rarely lead to situations that require spending money on emergency roof repair cost, knowing the signs can be helpful when trying to estimate the time your roof has left.
The first few years, also known as the incipient stage, are about five to 10 years after the roof installation is completed. This period is also referred to as the “curing” stage, in reference to the way adhesives need time to cure before they reach full strength. You might be wondering why you even need to look at your roof this early, but roofing is exposed to the elements the moment it’s installed on the roof deck. While it’s not as frequent as it used to be, factory defects can cause premature aging, usually seen as cracks on the roof surface.
Problems caused by installation errors are also likely to manifest at this time, which is why it is generally a good idea to choose a roofing installation contractor who offers workmanship warranties. As a GAF Master Elite® contractor, Advanced Roofing Inc. offers the full range of GAF’s warranties. The Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty includes up to 50 years material warranty and up to 30 years on workmanship.
Once the curing stage is over, the asphalt shingles would have settled down and at this point you can expect to enjoy the full benefits of your roof. This period is also the true test of quality for asphalt shingles. One of the most common signs of wear and tear is what is known as “craze cracking,” which looks like random cracks across the shingle surface. Stress cracks from exposure to high winds can also occur. The cracks could expose the backing material to the elements and result in water intrusion.
At its later stages, usually past 30 years or so, asphalt shingles start to wear down, with signs such as curling or cupping. The outer layer will also start peeling off, which from the ground would look like distorted, wavy shingles. During this time, it won’t protect your home from the elements as well as it used to and will require replacement soon.
Hiring a capable roof maintenance company can help prolong your roof’s life span. To learn more about our roofing services, call Advanced Roofing Inc. today at (630) 473-3008. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate. We serve Plainfield, IL, and surrounding areas in Illinois.
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