Shingle blistering is a common roofing issue that can affect the way your asphalt shingle roof looks and performs. But how do you know it’s shingle blistering and not another type of roof damage, like hail damage?
It’s important to be able to tell the difference, so you can make the right repairs and file accurate insurance claims.
This article will give you a complete overview of shingle blistering: what causes it, how it affects your roof, how to prevent it, and when it’s time to call a professional.
What are shingle blisters and what causes them?
Shingle blisters are raised bubbles that can appear on the surface of asphalt shingles. They’re not always a sign of immediate trouble, but they can lead to problems down the road if you don’t address them.
There are two kinds of shingle blisters. Cosmetic blisters don’t really affect how well your roof performs. Functional blisters, on the other hand, compromise the shingle’s integrity.
What causes shingle blisters?
Here are some of the most common reasons why shingles blister:
- Trapped moisture. If moisture gets trapped inside the shingle during manufacturing, it can cause blisters. High humidity during the manufacturing process can make this problem worse.
- Poor attic ventilation. If your attic isn’t ventilated well, excessive heat can build up and make blistering more likely. Good ventilation helps keep your roof at a consistent temperature and reduces moisture.
- Improper installation. Poor installation practices, such as installing shingles on a damp surface, can also lead to blistering.
Are those blisters or hail damage?
It’s important to know the difference between shingle blisters and other types of roof damage, especially hail damage. Hail usually leaves small, round dents. Blisters look like raised bubbles on the shingle’s surface.
Knowing the difference matters because insurance companies often cover hail damage, but they usually don’t cover shingle blisters. They see blistering as a manufacturing defect or a sign of wear and tear.
Besides blisters and hail, other common types of roof damage include granule loss, cracking, and curling. Granule loss is especially bad because it exposes the asphalt underneath to ultraviolet radiation, which can break it down over time.
Why Shingle Blistering Matters
Blistering isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can seriously hurt your roof’s structural integrity. Think of it like this: those blisters weaken the shingle from the inside out, making it much easier for wind, rain, and hail to cause real damage. Once a shingle is blistered, it’s more vulnerable to pretty much everything the weather throws at it.
And that damage can shorten your roof’s lifespan. Damaged shingles don’t do their job as well, which is to protect the materials underneath. If the shingles fail, your roof fails.
Water damage is a big concern, too. Blisters can crack open, exposing the roof deck to moisture. That moisture can lead to rot, mold, and all sorts of expensive problems.
Finally, damaged shingles mess with your roof’s ability to reflect sunlight. That means your attic gets hotter, your AC works harder, and your energy bills go up. So, blistering can end up costing you money in the long run.
How to prevent shingle blistering
So, you want to keep your roof looking good and working well for as long as possible, right? Here’s what the experts recommend:
- Good attic ventilation is key. Proper ventilation helps keep temperatures stable and reduces moisture.
- Choose quality shingles. Look for shingles designed to handle heat and moisture. Shingles with a Class A fire rating are a good choice.
- Make sure they’re installed right. Poor installation can trap moisture. You want a professional to do the work.
- Get regular roof inspections. Spotting blisters early can prevent bigger problems later on.
Taking these steps can go a long way in preventing those unsightly and damaging shingle blisters.
When to Call a Professional Roofing Contractor
I’m all about DIY, but roofing can be tricky. Messing around with your shingles yourself might actually void any warranties you have on the roof. You could also accidentally cause more damage than you fix!
Professional roofers have the knowledge and the right equipment to check out your blistering shingles. They can tell you for sure what’s causing the problem and fix it the right way.
The sooner you deal with shingle blistering, the better. Putting it off could end up costing you way more down the road. A pro can figure out if you just need a few repairs or if it’s time to think about replacing the whole roof. They’ll give you the best advice based on what’s really going on up there.
The Bottom Line
Shingle blistering is a common roofing problem caused by trapped moisture, poor ventilation, and manufacturing defects. These blisters can compromise your roof’s integrity, leading to leaks and further damage. Preventing shingle blistering involves proper installation, adequate ventilation, and selecting quality roofing materials.
Regular roof inspections are crucial for detecting and addressing any issues early on. Don’t ignore potential problems. Quick action can save you money and trouble down the road.
For a healthy and long-lasting roof, consider professional roofing services for inspections, maintenance, and repairs. A qualified roofer can make sure your roof is sound and protect your home for years to come.