5 Reasons You Have Curling Shingles on Your Roof

If you see asphalt shingles curling on your roof, you may wonder what is going on. Like any common roof problem, curling asphalt shingles should be taken seriously. Curling shingles look like a wave where the edges curve or flare upwards. Fortunately, there are some telltale signs that can help you get to the root of what is causing your wavy roof shingles. Here is a look at five likely causes behind the issue.

1. Poor Attic Ventilation

Your roof ventilation system works by pulling in outside air from intake vents located on the roof's lower portion before displacing it to higher areas of the roof. When venting is inadequate, you get moisture and heat trapped in your attic. It might be time to make sure there is enough airflow to prevent roof issues that ultimately indicate your home is also at risk for mold damage.

“Underventilated roofs also cause shingles to not last their full lifetime expectancy,” says Ami Feller, Expert Review Board member and owner of Roofer Chicks in New Braunfels, TX. “Many builders underventilate their homes. You should have one square foot of ventilation for every 300 square feet of attic space, and that one square foot should be split evenly between intake and outtake vents.” 

Since most vent openings are expressed in inches, you will need to convert to inches when calculating the amount of ventilation needed. There are many ventilation calculators available online. Do not forget to add your garage space in the attic space’s square footage. Most two-car garages add 400 square feet.

2. Bad Roof Installation

If your shingles look suspect, it is probably time to call in some local roofing companies near you. Roofing manufacturers have strict guidelines regarding how their products must be installed. One slip-up in following the guidelines could void a warranty.

Storing shingles at improper temperatures before installation can lead to trouble. If any moisture gets absorbed into the shingles or decking before installation, it could create curling.

If you are wondering about the cost to repair an asphalt shingle roof because your shingles are peeling after you did a DIY roof installation, it may be time to seek advice from local roofers before the issue gets worse.

3. Defective Shingles

When it comes to curling shingles, blame could fall on the shingle manufacturer. It is possible that your roof shingles were simply made with flaws. In this case, make sure you have a roofing professional document the issue on your behalf for warranty purposes.

4. Your Current Shingles Were Installed Over Old Ones

Roofers and homeowners sometimes layer new shingles over old shingles. While this is not typically a code violation, it is generally a bad idea. The reason why is simply that new shingles cannot seal properly when they are placed over old shingles. It also covers up other hidden problems that may be lingering in the original roof.

This shortcut frequently causes roof shingles to blow off in strong winds—and yes, it also increases the chances of curling. If your roof has been overlaid, it is likely that the manufacturer may also void their warranty.

5. Your Shingles Have Reached Their Maximum Lifespan

Your roof shingles may simply be curling their way into retirement. Most asphalt roof shingles last from 15 to 30 years. However, architectural shingles represent some of the types of asphalt shingles that go up to 50 years.

If you are in an area with a harsh climate of either extreme, your roof may make its curtain call sooner than expected. Always have a professional come in to help assess whether it is smarter to repair or replace your roof under the circumstances before you start peeling off your shingles.

Why Is It Important to Repair Curling Shingles?

Proper roof installation keeps your home and property safe by shedding water and snow and preventing debris from entering the property. Curling shingles also mean gaps for opportunistic animals such as squirrels and raccoons to take up residence and create more damage. Repairing curling shingles quickly will lessen potential damage in the long run. 

Some reasons you might be experiencing curling shingles include: 

• Leaks: Any gap in the roof will offer an opportunity for leaks when it rains or snows. Damage from leaky roofs can invite mold and become costly to fix the longer you wait, due to further damage.

• Decreased air quality: If air circulation is poor in the attic, moisture from the rising air will get trapped in the decking, which can cause the shingles to curl.

• Mold: A poorly ventilated attic or decreased air circulation causes excess moisture to build up, which provides ideal conditions for mold to grow.

Tips to Prevent Roof Damage 

Curling shingles mean the roof is compromised and you risk additional damage to the roof and property. Some tips to prevent roof damage include:

• Regularly inspect your roof. If you can access a neighbor’s space, ask if you can inspect your roof from different angles.

• Regularly clean your gutters so debris does not clog drainage.

• Remove any debris so it does not accumulate and cause drainage problems. 

• Trim nearby trees to block access for animals to find their way to your roof and reduce risk of limbs breaking during storms.

• Clear off heavy snow after major snowfalls.

• At the first sign of missing, loose, or curling shingles, arrange to fix them.

It is important to keep an eye on your roof to mitigate potential damage. Regular inspections during the change of seasons will help you to stay on top of possible issues. You can also prevent roof damage by hiring a professional roof installer near you for repairs or replacement.