Under the Contractor Umbrella

Asphalt shingles can last anywhere from one to three decades, depending on product quality, maintenance, and climatic conditions. However, some asphalt roofs don't last their expected lifespan because of poor choice of materials, improper installation, or neglect. With proper care, asphalt shingles can perform excellently without requiring frequent repairs. With this in mind, follow these tips to extend the lifespan and performance of your new asphalt shingle roof.

Choose the Right Shingles for Your Climate

There are various types of asphalt shingles suited to different climatic conditions. If your location experiences inclement weather, don't go for conventional shingles. Regular shingles may suffer leaks, cracks, or granule loss due to exposure to harsh weather. Below are some tips on how to pick the right shingles for different climates.

Hailstorm-prone areas

The impact of medium-sized and large hailstones can damage conventional shingles, causing them to crack, curl up, and leak. Therefore, if your region experiences hailstorms, opt for impact-resistant shingles. Unlike regular shingles made of a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt, impact-resistant shingles are made of rubberized asphalt. The modified asphalt formula creates sturdy shingles that readily absorb hail impact without cracking or losing their seal.

Areas with strong winds

Strong winds can easily dislodge shingles, leaving behind gaps that collect moisture. Therefore, if your area has strong winds, avoid three-tab shingles as they are lightweight and can easily get dislodged by the wind. Instead, opt for heavier shingles, such as dimensional or luxury shingles. The weight of these materials makes it difficult for them to get blown off by strong winds.

Invest in Quality Underlayment

Underlayment is a crucial element on an asphalt shingle roof. It is a waterproof layer installed between the roof deck and the shingles. The most common types of underlay for asphalt shingle roofs are felt, self-adhered, and synthetic underlayment. Felt tears easily; thus, it's not a great choice for areas with strong winds that can dislodge shingles. 

Self-adhering underlay and synthetic underlay are durable and incredibly waterproof. If you lose shingles due to strong winds or hail impact, the underlayment can prevent moisture from seeping into the roof deck. They can also resist damage from subsequent episodes of inclement weather, protecting your roof from damage as you prepare for repairs.

Limit Roof Access to the Professionals

Are you planning a skylight or solar installation project? Do you have roof penetrations that require regular maintenance? Heavy foot traffic on an asphalt roof can cause shingle damage and granule loss, reducing the structure's lifespan. Therefore, avoid DIY projects on the roof. Leave all installation and maintenance work to professionals with the expertise to access asphalt roofs without damaging the shingles.

Quality installations play a key role in increasing the lifespan of your new asphalt roof. Therefore, contact a roofing contractor for professional installation services. For more information about residential shingle roof installations, reach out to a local service.