The Anatomy of a Shingle When It’s Time for an Inspection

If your home is due for a roofing inspection, learning the anatomy of a shingle could help. If you know what a healthy shingle will look like, you can compare it against shingles that need replacement.

Fiberglass or Cellulose Matting

Cellulose shingles usually consist of tar paper or cardboard. These came before the fiberglass types that arrived about 30-40 years ago. Fiberglass shingles typically have asphalt applied directly onto them.

Asphalt Coating

Everyone typically knows this as “blacktop” because driveways and roads often have it. The center layer is made of this tarry material. It makes shingles water-resistant and adds strength that makes the material last up to 50 years with proper care.

Ceramic-Coated Mineral Granules

Some people might think that the granules, which appear like tiny stones, reside in shingles for decorative purposes. It could provide some aesthetic value. However, it prevents the asphalt from soaking up too much solar heat. The granules also prevent UV rays from wearing down the asphalt layer.

Some Roofing Extras

Calling these “extras” might seem like an understatement. They add to the overall roofing material quality.

Shingle Sealant Strips

Self-sealing shingle strips bond each shingle together. This prevents wind from lifting them off your roof deck. A contractor will just peel off the backing when ready to apply the shingles to your roof.

Shingle BackSurfacing

Sand or slag applied to the backs of shingles prevents shingles from sticking together in storage. This benefits you when deciding to buy roofing materials you can access right now. It also keeps your shingles intact while finishing your projects and preserves them during shipping transit.

Signs Shingles Need Repair or Replacement

The level of maintenance varies. Your contractor will let you know the best course of action when inspecting your roof. Here are some signs your shingles need repair or replacement.

Exposed Matting

If you see tiny white threads, it means that both the ceramic granules and the asphalt have worn to the base matting layer.

Shingle Fractures

This happens as the shingle adhesives and protective coatings wear. It causes dryness from too much sun exposure. Harsh winds and heavy rains could also result in shingle fractures.

Moss Growth

Eventually, this happens once the cracks have remained on your roof for a time. It might not worry you much unless you also experience leaking or drafts.

Leaking or Drafts

If you start noticing leaking from your ceiling, you might need to check your shingles. The same is true if you experience drafts even if your home is well-insulated.

Contact Rosie’s Roofing & Restoration to schedule a roofing inspection today.