Welcome back to our series on asphalt roof repair.
In Part 1 of the series, we covered replacing damaged shingles. Now, in Part 2, we’re taking a look at curled shingles — specifically fixing vs. replacing them.
Before we begin, we’d like to mention that unless you are experienced with asphalt roof repair we highly recommend having an experienced, insured roofing contractor do the work to ensure your safety, and that an attempted repair doesn’t make matters worse for your roof.
That said, even if you’re planning on contacting a roofing contractor, it’s still a good idea to read this article and educate yourself beforehand as to what’s going on with your roof, why some of the shingles may be curling, and if it looks like repair or replacement of shingles is likely.
If you do have a roofing company come out to take a look, there are a few things we recommend:
- You should never have to pay for a roof inspection, so if a roofer wants to charge you for inspecting your home — find someone else.
- Make sure they are insured.
- Make sure to get a written estimate on all proposed work, which should include actual photos of damaged shingles.
- Get at least two estimates.
- Last, but not least, make sure they are a reputable company. Checking with the Better Business Bureau, or reviews on Google are two easy ways to do this. You can also see if the roofing contractor has any awards, for example from Top 500 Remodeler, the GAF President’s Club (as well as other GAF awards like Triple Excellence or Master Elite status). Doing your diligence BEFORE you officially choose your contractor can go a long way in reducing stress, and cost, down the road.
OK, let’s jump into our discussion on fixing vs. replacing curled shingles …
WHY DO ASPHALT SHINGLES CURL?
Asphalt shingles can curl for a few reasons, including from age (simply reaching the end of their lifespan), attic ventilation issues, improper installation, inferior quality shingles, or exposure to heat and sunlight.
In addition, moisture from snow or rain that gets under the shingle (ice damming is one way this happens) can cause curling.
WHEN SHOULD CURLED ASPHALT SHINGLES BE REPAIRED?
Consider replacing curled asphalt shingles only under certain conditions, like when there are only a few shingles curling. Once curling becomes more prevalent, it’s time to explore other options. Curled shingles also still need to be intact, unmarred by cracks, and in good overall shape (disintegrating shingles are not repairable).
Regardless, we recommend having your roof inspected because curled shingles can be a symptom of bigger issues with your roof, many of which were mentioned above. This is why, even when circumstances appear optimal for a fix, it’s advisable to have a roof contractor inspect your entire roof. We know this is something most homeowners aren’t excited about — but it’s always better to know what’s happening with your roof, than to be in the dark about it only to incur more stress and cost later on.
THE REPAIR PROCESS
- Check the weather. Warm, dry weather is a must before you begin the repair process. Both on the front end, before the repair is initiated (so everything’s dry), and then a minimum of 24 hours of dry conditions after the repair is completed so adhesives and sealants can set properly.
- Get your supplies and tools together. This includes a sturdy ladder, a spotter to keep you safe, a hammer, roofing nails, as well as roofing mastic or sealant. You’ll also need a brush or putty knife.
- Lift gently. Lift the curled shingle and make sure it’s clean underneath. Then apply an even layer of the roofing mastic or sealant under the shingle. DO NOT apply roofing mastic to exposed portions of roofing.
- Tack it down. If necessary, gently tack down the shingle with a roofing nail on each of the curled corners.
- Keep it flat. Apply brick, or something similar on top of the curled parts of the shingle you just repaired for 24 hours. Make sure it’s secure so everyone on the ground remains safe!
WHEN SHOULD CURLED ASPHALT SHINGLES BE REPLACED
- When a large number of your asphalt shingles are curling.
- When the shingles are curling too considerably to be effectively flattened.
- If you see any other type of damage on your roof.
- If any of the above three instances are in play, it’s time to get your roof inspected.
Want us to handle the project?
Feel free to get in touch with Legacy Exteriors anytime. The first thing we’ll do is stop by to perform a complimentary inspection of your roof — with no strings attached — to see exactly what’s going on before providing a written repair estimate.