If you have an asphalt shingle roof, you may get the same type of roofing when you need a roof replacement. Asphalt roof shingles are very common since they're good at protecting your home and affordable too. Here are some details to know about roof shingles.
Roof Shingles Can Get Too Hot
Asphalt shingles are often in full sun all day long. Plus, they're usually a dark color, so they get hot. They're made to withstand the usual amount of heat, but when extra heat is added from an attic with poor ventilation, the shingles can get too hot and start to curl up. Curled shingles are a sign of a roof problem that needs to be fixed so your shingles won't age prematurely.
Shingles Are Attached With Nails And Adhesive
You've probably heard nail guns attaching roof shingles, but you might not know the number of nails for each shingle is determined by building codes. Areas of the country that see hurricanes usually have stricter codes for roofs since shingles can fly off in strong storms.
Shingles are also attached with a strip of adhesive. The adhesive is already applied to the shingles so all the roofer has to do is nail down the top of the shingle and press the adhesive strip down that's already on the bottom of the shingle.
The adhesive gradually warms up, melts, and bonds to the shingle below. This is one reason your roofer may not want to put new shingles on in very cold weather. The adhesive may not bond as well as it would in warm weather.
Shingle Nails Can Pop Out
Roof shingles are nailed on with roofing nails. These have a different shape from regular nails. Roofing nails have wider heads and a sharper design that lets them penetrate shingles and hold them against the deck securely. Over time, the nails can back out. This can cause blisters to pop up on the shingles. When you get a roof inspection, the roofer checks for signs of pop-outs so the nails can be replaced if needed.
Roof Shingles Have Different Grades And Ratings
Roof shingles come in different thicknesses and grades. This allows you to get budget roofing when you don't have a lot of money to spend on higher-quality shingles. The high-quality shingles are thicker and offer more protection from wind and hail. In addition to different grades, you can look for different shingle ratings. Ratings let you know on a scale how well the shingles can be expected to tolerate strong wind, fire, and impacts.
Contact a professional to learn more about roof shingles.