Split and Cracked Shingles: Are They Different?

As far as roofing systems go, an asphalt shingles installation remains the most popular roof replacement option for many homeowners. There are many advantages to asphalt shingles but, like every other roofing material, they are not without their limitations. Shingles, in particular, can be prone to common problems such as splitting and cracking.

Split and cracked shingles all stem from the same root cause: water penetration and evaporation. Other than this, they are two distinctly separate problems that require different solutions. Let our experts at Dior Construction explain what splitting and cracking means for an asphalt shingle roof and offer you steps on how to deal with this type of roofing issue.

What Is Cracking?

When your local residential roofing services install an asphalt roof, the shingles are actually layered with asphalt mixed with chemicals that give the roof more flexibility and durability. These chemicals are called volatiles. Over time, as water penetrates the shingles and then evaporates, these volatiles are gradually “eaten away.” When this happens, the shingles become less pliable, leading to cracking issues. Normally, this happens when a roof is close to the end of its life span so a good solution to avoid incessant cracking is to plan for a roof replacement.

What Is Splitting?

Split shingles can be caused by a combination of water penetration and thermal expansion and contraction. Shingles expand when heated during the day and contract during the night. This constant cycle can lead to splitting. Individual split shingles can be replaced but if it happens too often or affects too many tabs, you may already be due for a replacement.

What Can You Do?

Contact your residential roofing contractor for regular maintenance to make sure early signs of splitting and cracking are spotted and fixed before they become serious. Inspections are best done once a year or, for homes in areas prone to extreme weather, once every season.

At Dior Construction, we are your leading provider of roof repair and replacement services. Give us a call at (833) 838-3467 or fill out our contact form to schedule a maintenance visit and request a free estimate today. We serve homeowners in Bergen County, NJ, and other nearby areas in New Jersey.