Shingle Roof Maintenance

Shingles are manufactured by pieces, whether three-tab or architectural shingles and are installed and overlapped over one another. 

Some shingles may be heavier compared to other styles, but for experienced roofers, installing shingles is one of the easiest and lesser time consumed compared to other roofing materials.

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In the installation, it is best to hire an experienced roofer instead of doing it yourself considering that during the job, you are working at a height which needs to be extra careful. 

Compared to other roofing materials, shingle comes in different textures, sizes, styles, and colors which gives you the chance to design to your preference. 

Shingles are very much versatile in a style which is why it is more evidently used compared to other materials. The color can also last longer because it is covered with a ceramic coating that can longer the color during its service life. 

Because shingles are manufactured and installed in overlapping pieces, in times when it needs to be repaired, you don’t have to replace the entire roofing.

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You can take the broken or damaged shingle and replace it with a new one. Just like how it is easier to install, it is also easier to repair. Just make sure your underlayments are not damaged as well. 

Asphalt shingles are less durable compared to other roofing materials. Especially in areas with strong winds and colder temperatures, shingles are more susceptible to damage wherein these factors also contributed to the deterioration of the material. 

On strong winds, with its thinness and lightweight, it can be easily ripped off during a strong blow of wind. On colder days, it can also be very brittle and can break. Organic shingles are also more water-absorbent which lessens the durability of the materials.

Environmental factors can contribute to moss and algae growth on your roof, including a north-facing roof (if you live in the northern hemisphere), lots of shade trees and a wet climate. Moss absorbs water, and large clumps of moss growing on your roof can damage shingles by raising the shingle edges and exposing the undersides to water.

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Algae can leave ugly dark streaks on a roof’s surface. Algae stains can be minimized with a solution of chlorine bleach and water. If your roof’s environment is conducive to moss or algae, your best solution may be regular treatments.  

Pro Tip: StreakGuard™ Algae Resistance Protection on Owens Corning® shingles is made possible by using a specialized copper-lined granule from 3M, a leading producer of roofing granules.

Similar to the potential problems from walking on a roof, trees can disturb roof granules by rubbing against shingles, especially during windstorms. Trim branches as much as necessary so that even on the windiest of days, they aren’t touching your roof or gutters. 

Trees provide shade in the summer and add beauty to your landscape. Unfortunately, they’re a constant source of debris, from maple leaf helicopters in spring to fallen leaves in autumn. Organic matter can absorb water, causing your shingles to remain in contact with moisture for lengthy periods. In addition, when rainwater runs down your roof, it can pick up debris, leaving it to settle in your gutters.

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Remove organic residue from your roof at least twice a year or more, depending on your region’s tree activity. You may be able to gently remove the debris with a broom or leaf blower depending on roof access, for example, from an upstairs window.

Remember, don’t use a tool that would rub the shingles’ surface because it could dislodge granules.

Conclusion

Swadley Roof Systems offers the best roofing services in the Houston, Austin, San Antonio and Dallas area.