Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials out there due to their affordability and ease of installation. But if they’re not taken care of properly, you can quickly find yourself needing a roof repair or even an exterior replacement in Wilmington, DE. In this article, we’ll discuss some common mistakes people make when it comes to taking care of asphalt shingles so that you can avoid them.
Poor Installation
One way that asphalt shingle roofs can quickly become damaged is through poor installation techniques. If the installer doesn’t use enough nails or fasteners for your asphalt shingles, then the tiles will be more likely to move around during a storm and cause damage over time. Similarly, if there are gaps between adjacent pieces where water can enter and pool on your roof deck, then you can expect damage to your roofing. These areas should be sealed with caulk before installation is complete to protect your home from moisture damage.
Poor Maintenance
Another mistake homeowners often make when it comes to caring for their asphalt shingle roofs is neglecting regular maintenance checks and repairs. As soon as any kind of wear or tear becomes visible on a tile, such as curling edges or missing granules, this area should be repaired. If plenty of tiles need repair, it’s best to get in touch with a local roofer.
Poor Environment
The environment where you live plays an important role in how well your asphalt shingle roof holds up over time. Excessive heat from direct sunlight exposure during summer and heavy snowfall during winter can stress even new roofs. Consider planting trees around your property (or installing taller gutters) so that less sunlight reaches directly onto your roof throughout the day, keeping it cooler. Removing wet snow after every storm will also help reduce unnecessary weight buildup.
Improper Ventilation
Poor ventilation in roofing systems has been known to shorten shingle lifespans significantly by trapping hot air inside. This ultimately heats up rooftops, which leads to premature aging — something easily avoided by ensuring adequate ventilation systems are installed at all times.
Not Installing Ice and Water Shields Properly
If ice and water shields are applied incorrectly (or not at all), it can lead to serious leaks. To ensure proper coverage, contact experienced roofers in Newark, DE, who understand the importance of having this kind of protection in place correctly and know how to fit them together seamlessly without exposing any vulnerable spots.
Homecraft Inc. in Wilmington, DE, specializes in asphalt shingle roof repair and replacement. Give us a call at (302) 798-0302 or send us a message to schedule an appointment.
