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Difference Between Asphalt Shingle Cracking and Splitting

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When you’re thinking about asphalt shingle roof damage, you might think about shingle splitting and cracking. However, there are some homeowners who think that both of these issues are one and the same. Granted, they have their similarities, but there are some things that set these issues apart. Cracking happens on the shingle’s surface while splitting refers to the roofing material fracturing. Both of these issues are serious ordeals that need to be addressed as soon as possible. 

Asphalt Shingle Cracking and Splitting

Asphalt Shingle Cracking

The asphalt mix used during the shingle manufacturing process features volatiles. These volatiles allow your asphalt shingles to become waterproof and flexible. However, these volatiles will lose their potency and efficiency over time, causing your asphalt shingles to dry, shrink, and crack.

Extended exposure to heat can lead to your shingle cracking even faster, also known as craze cracking. Your roof replacement contractor will tell you that cracks are a common sign of roof aging. However, if cracking happens on a new roofing system, then this means that crude materials or mixtures were used during the manufacturing and installation process. At this point, your only solution is to have a roof replacement.

Asphalt Shingle Splitting

When your roof is exposed to the searing summer heat, it causes your asphalt shingles to expand. It will contract when the weather starts to cool down due to the shift in temperature. This cycle of expanding and contractor is called thermal stress, which can cause your shingle to split in the long run. Another possible cause of shingle splitting is the adhesives used to stick your shingles. Using excessively strong adhesives can cause your roof to become less resistant to wind shears, causing splits and tears when it comes into contact with high winds.

If you need a roof repair expert you can rely on, turn to Neumann Construction, and cast your worries aside! We are a local roofing company that has been in the business since 2005. Call us at (218) 270-0009, or fill out our contact form for a FREE, no-obligation consultation. We serve the Pequot Lakes and Brainerd, MN, and more.