Problem: Broken asphalt shingles.
Cause: Winds can lift shingle tabs, causing them to break.
Strong winds can lift shingle tabs, as shown in Figure 1a, especially during hot periods in summer when the adhesive sealant is not as resistant to lifting. Degradation occurs as the wind bends the shingle tabs back and forth, eventually resulting in breakage.
Figure 1a - Broken roof shingle tabs
Solutions: Apply roofing cement under each tab of all shingles, including those that are self-sealing.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best temperature range for installing self-sealing shingles. Asphalt shingles are most workable in temperature ranges of 50 to 74°F (10 to 23°F). Below 50°F (10°C) asphalt shingles become stiff, and the self-sealant does not adhere properly. Self sealing shingles may require a few weeks of warm weather to seal properly as shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1 - Roof and Roofing Cement With Tabbed Shingles
- If the shingles are applied in cold weather, seal them manually when temperatures rise above 50°F (10°C). Apply a 1 inch (25 mm) spot of adhesive sealant or roofing cement under the center of each tab. Apply extra roofing cement to the tabs at gables.
Additional information on roofs and roofing