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Roof Common Issues: Thermal Splitting Roof Shingles

Thermal Splitting Roof Shingles

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Quality is at the heart of our Austin roofing company in every project we take on. Contact our experienced Central Texas roofers for a same-day, pressure-free inspection. Call 512-375-3654 to book your free inspection.

If you need a new roof installed, LOA is the roofing company to call! Our roofing experts are known for providing quality workmanship at a fair price. If you own a house or business in Central Texas you can’t afford to work with another roofer.

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What Causes Roof Shingle Cracking and Splitting + How to Fix It

One of the more common types of asphalt shingle damage is thermal splitting. It leads to splits and cracks in asphalt shingles that can be the precursor to other problems like roof leaks and reduce the lifespan of the roofing system as well as its structural integrity.

This is a problem that has a root cause, but there are other factors that can increase the chance of it happening and make shingle damage much worse.

 

Have you noticed cracked roof shingles or splitting?

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Contributing Factors for Thermal Splitting in Roofing Shingles

Having a damaged shingle here and there on your roof is going to happen. However, if you notice that a number of shingles cracking and splitting apart that’s cause for concern. It suggests that thermal splitting is occurring and repairs are needed so the problem doesn’t get worse.

Primary Cause of Thermal Splitting: Temperature Fluctuations

The root cause of thermal splitting in asphalt shingle roofs is the repeated expansion and contraction of the shingles due to temperature fluctuations. As the temperature outside changes, the shingles expand when it’s hot and contract when it’s cold. In climates with significant swings in the daily or seasonal temperature, shingles are more likely to experience thermal splitting due to the constant and/or rapid expansion and contraction.

While temperature fluctuations are the primary cause of split and cracked shingles, there are other contributing factors that can make the problem worse.

Age and Weathering Over Time

As asphalt shingles age, they lose their flexibility and become more brittle. This makes them more susceptible to the effects of thermal splitting. Exposure to the sun’s heat and UV radiation also causes the asphalt to degrade, weakening the shingles further and increasing the risk of splitting.

Poor Roof Installation

Improper installation can cause added stress on the shingles, exacerbating the effects when thermal expansion and contraction happens. Common installation issues include nails driven in too tightly and nails that are placed incorrectly.

Uneven Heat Distribution From Inadequate Insulation and Ventilation

There are two ways that uneven heat distribution can play a role in thermal splitting. The first issue is the asphalt shingles on the surface heating up faster than the underlayment below. The surface layer will expand faster when this happens.

The second issue is uneven heat distribution across the roof due to inadequate insulation and ventilation. Areas where the insulation is insufficient will heat up more causing different rates of expansion. Poor attic ventilation can trap heat and moisture beneath the roof, which can cause the shingles to overheat and increase the risk of thermal splitting.

Roof Slope and Sun Exposure

Roofs with a steep slope and roofs that are more exposed to the sun can experience more intense temperature fluctuations, further contributing to the risk of thermal splitting.

Low Quality Shingles

In places like Austin, TX where it can get very hot in the summer you want to use high quality asphalt shingles that are better at withstanding the heat. Lower quality asphalt shingles aren’t as resilient to temperature changes and are at a greater risk of thermal shingle splitting. If you need roof replacement or are installing a new roof opt for a roofing material with cool coating that helps asphalt shingles reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat.

Roof Cracking Repair Measures That Should Be Taken

Asphalt roof cracking and splitting affects the appearance, performance and longevity of your asphalt roofing system. Fortunately, if you catch the problem early the repairs aren’t too complex or costly. But if the problem goes on for a while the damage will be more extensive and it can lead to costly repairs or even roof replacement.

Here’s what you need to do to repair shingle cracking from thermal splitting.

  • Get a Roof Inspection

    A roof inspection from a professional will give you an idea of the extent of the damaged shingles as well as exactly where they are cracked. You may discover that the damage extends well beyond the shingle cracks that you can see.

  • Repair Minor Cracked Shingle Damage

    If minor cracking occurs in a limited area it can be repaired without having to replace the shingles.

    Clean cracked shingles: Before you can repair cracks and splits, the affected shingles need to be thoroughly cleaned and allowed to dry.

    Apply roofing cement over cracks and splits: Apply a generous amount of roofing cement over the cracks and splits. The roofing cement needs to be pressed into the crack to makes sure it’s filled in completely. Next, smooth the roofing cement out to ensure it’s even with the surrounding shingles.

    Use a Roofing Sealant Around the Edges: Use a caulking gun to apply a small amount of roofing sealant along the edges of any shingles that have lifted up or become loose due to the splitting to prevent water from getting underneath.

  • Replace Badly Damaged Shingles

    If the shingles are cracked and split beyond repair they need to be replaced. This can be done for a single shingle or a group of shingles.

    Remove damaged shingles: A pry bar can be used to lift the tabs of the damaged shingles. Next, remove nails that are holding the damaged shingles in place.

    Install the new shingles: Place the new shingles so that they align properly with the surrounding shingles. Secure the shingles with roofing nails of the correct length under the tabs of the shingles above it.

    Seal around the edges of shingles: Finally, apply sealant or roofing cement underneath the edges of the new shingles to prevent lifting and roof damage.

    By following these steps, you can extend the life of your asphalt shingles and prevent further damage from thermal splitting.

LOA installs and repairs asphalt roofs in Austin on a daily basis. We can quickly repair cracked and splits asphalt shingles and correct the underlying issues so it doesn’t happen in the future. Get started by Scheduling a free roof inspection!

We're One of the Highest Rated Roofers in Austin for a Reason

Thanks to Landon Wells of LOA Construction for the beautiful new roof! It was all completed in one day including a meticulous clean up job afterwards. The workers were all polite and professional. Landon made sure everything went smoothly and that all of our questions were answered. I am thrilled with our new roof. I would definitely recommend Landon and LOA Construction to all of my friends and family. Thank you Landon!

— Renee Johnson

★★★★★
"I got three inspections and decided to use LOA Construction for a new roof. LOA’s Dan Harvey worked with my insurance inspector to make sure all the hail/wind damage was accounted for, gave us a good choice of shingle colors, and was great at communicating. The workers did quality work, found and repaired rotted wood and cleaned up. Highly recommend!"

— Brian McFarlin, 5-Star Google Review

★★★★★
"Brandon at LOA construction made replacement of our roof very easy. He was the only roofing contractor that I could find that would work directly with our insurance company. They showed up on time and made the whole process very easy. And we have a great looking high quality roof! I Would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a new roof. Give them a call if you need a roof or think you might have wind or hail damage. I had several other bids that were higher cost and didn't think our insurance would cover it. Our insurance did cover it, I think they were just unwilling to work with the insurance company. Not Brandon, not only was he will to work with our insurance he met with the adjuster and made the whole thing a breeze. Thanks again LOA and Brandon!!!!"

— Mike A., 5-Star Google Review

★★★★★
LOA Construction has exceeded my expectations again. This is the second roof installation with them and I couldn't be happier. Specifically, Tyler Griffiths is professional, attentive, and made the entire process of working with my insurance company effortless. My tenant sent a glowing account of their experience as well. Knowing it was a rental, they still diligently protected all property and plants. They were on time every time and went out of their way to not inconvenience the residents. LOA Construction has integrity and takes pride in their work. I couldn't recommend them more.

— Sheri Moran

★★★★★
"Worked with Zac and his team. Zac did an outstanding job working with the insurance company to ensure all damage was covered. Roof and gutters installed each were on time and all work was top of the line. This is a company that really does put the customer first. With out question I would recommend loa construction and roofing."

— Tony Smith, 5-Star Google Review

★★★★★
From the very start, I knew I was in good hands. The professionalism was top-notch, but most important, was the caring attitude of the project manager, Dan Harvey, the roofing supervisor, Ambrocio, and the roofing crew. They made sure every detail was covered. They are definitely an asset to LOA Construction. I highly recommend them. Dennis and Suzy S

— Dennis Sanger

★★★★★
Andrew was very great at getting myself and my wife all the information and getting us started from start to completion. His workers were friendly and professional. If ever I had to contact him, he was quick to respond back. We are very happy with the finished product. Yes, I would and have recommended him and his company to get their work by LOA Construction and Austin. Andrew made sure my wife would be satisfied with whatever roof she liked. Can't thank you enough Andrew and LOA Construction.

— Paul Coleman

★★★★★
As a first time home owner with no experience in how to make claims and start the process of getting a new roof I was scared to the point of avoiding what needed to get done after the bad hail storm. August Walker did an amazing job walking me through each step along the way. He answered all my questions and calmed my concerns. They inspected my roof and drove from Austin to Belton just to be there with the ins inspector, and followed up with me in person after the roof was installed. He also made a special trip back to drop off samples! I’m grateful to August and LOA construction for being highly professional and friendly!

— Angela Baker

★★★★★
From start to finish Lee and his team took great care of us. He made us feel comfortable during the process and answered any and all questions we had. I would definitely them recommend to anyone.

— Taneisha Jones

★★★★★
Arthur Harris and his team with LOA Construction did an excellent job on our roof. They finished it in one day. Arthur was very good in explaining all the information to us.

— Crystal Hill

★★★★★
Will, has been so awesome and easy to work with he gets everything we want done the way we want it and also keeps us updated as we are over the road truck drivers !!! Hands down to LOA Construction for their great service and great customer service !!!

— Tanya Dudkiewicz

★★★★★
Dan Harvey is Very Knowledgeable and directed me straight to the products that will save us money in the next 3 years the savings on energy costs alone will pay for the installation itself. I highly recommend LOA Construction and Dan Harvey! Actual Customer Jefferson Fara

— Jefferson Fara

★★★★★
Mark from LOA roofing was very professional from the git, the initial estimate process, he quickly identified all the issues that needed to be addressed. The company was very prompt, to coordinate the crew, and for a very reasonable price, got my roof repaired without any hassle. They also took care of all the cleaning, so that it all looked like nothing happened. I would recommend Mark from LOA to anyone needing a roof repair, with no kind of hesitation.

— Ale León

★★★★★
Loa Construction provides quality services in installing roof and related repairs. I’ll recommend it to my friends and family.

— Peijie Li

★★★★★

Choose quality roofing for a lasting investment

Request an Inspection

Dedicated to excellence, our Austin roofing company ensures quality in every project. Contact our skilled Central Texas roofers for a same-day, hassle-free inspection. Call +1 (512) 375-3654 to book your free inspection.

Choose quality roofing for a lasting investment in your home.

Request an Inspection

Dedicated to excellence, our Austin roofing company ensures quality in every project. Contact our skilled Central Texas roofers for a same-day, hassle-free inspection. Call +1 (512) 375-3654 to book your free inspection.

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