5 Factors That Affect How Well an Asphalt Roof Ages

Over time, you’re going to face several age-related roofing problems since shingles deteriorate naturally. Various factors determine how well asphalt roofs age, including the following:

  1. Slope Degree

Roofs with flat slopes tend to have shorter lifespans since they shed water more slowly than pitched roofs. Water can pool on a flat roof and potentially leak through the membranes. Aside from that, they are also more vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) damage because they are significantly more exposed than roofs with steeper slopes, causing flat roofs to age more quickly than expected.

  1. Quality

Low-quality shingles fail sooner than high-quality shingles. So, when you’re shopping for asphalt shingles, remember that quality varies between roofing manufacturers. This means that some asphalt shingle roofs may deteriorate faster than others. Make sure to hire a roofing professional to assist you in selecting the appropriate shingle product for your property.

  1. Roof Color

The color of your roof can also influence how well your asphalt roof ages. Darker colors absorb more heat, which could damage the shingles and reduce their lifespan. Lighter-colored asphalt shingles, on the other hand, can last longer since they reflect heat more effectively than darker-colored roofs.

  1. Thermal Cycling

Depending on your local climate, your asphalt roof may age faster due to fluctuating temperatures. Climates with substantial temperature changes cause a higher rate of expansion and contraction in shingles, increasing the speed of deterioration and shortening the lifespan of the roof.

  1. Roof Ventilation

Poor ventilation contributes to the weathering of asphalt roofing as it exposes the shingles to more heat. This often leads to the loss of volatiles, which are chemicals added to the asphalt mix to make the shingles flexible and waterproof.

When it comes to professional roofing services, Renovation Team is the home improvement contractor to trust. We also have expertise in siding, windows and kitchen and bathroom remodeling. Call us at (636) 939-1061, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve homeowners in St. Charles and St. Louis, and other areas in Missouri.