Asphalt shingles are the cornerstone of protection for most roofs, so knowing the signs to look for when it comes to wear and tear can help prolong the lifespan of your roof. Although regular roof inspections will detect problems early, here are some signs you can watch for that indicate when you should schedule asphalt shingle repair or replacement.

When Should You Replace Your Shingles?

1. Missing Granules

A little bit of granule loss is to be expected, especially with a new roof. However, if you notice an excessive amount of granules in the roof runoff or see a lot of discolored patches on the shingles that indicate extensive granule loss, consider having them replaced. These signs typically indicate that your shingles' seal is breaking down. While granule loss doesn't cause an asphalt roof to leak, it is a clear indicator that the roof's protection against UV rays has been weakened, leading to shingles wearing out more quickly.

2. Curling or Missing Shingles

Curling can occur when the asphalt dries and shrinks over time. When this happens, the asphalt shingles become brittle and are more easily blown off in high winds. Once asphalt shingles begin to curl, the only solution is to replace them before the curling shingles can force up surrounding shingles, creating a widespread issue that could lead to whole roof replacement.

3. Age of the Roof

The typical lifespan of a roof is anywhere between 20 and 25 years. As a roof gets closer to its longest estimated lifespan, it becomes more and more prone to leaks as materials—such as the shingles—that protect it wear down. If your roof is at least 80% of the way through its estimated lifespan, consider having it replaced before more serious problems can occur.

If your asphalt shingle roof needs repair or replacement, contact the experts at Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC in Castle Shannon, PA. They are experienced with asphalt roof maintenance for the surrounding community and have a lifetime guarantee on all shingles installed, plus warranties of 50 years with the brand and 5 years on labor. Call (412) 580-6567 or visit them online to learn more.