Long Island Roof Repair: What Do Cracked Shingles Look Like?
Cracked shingles show distinct physical wear signs, including linear fissures and splitting across the roofing surface. Physical damage and deterioration can indicate when it’s time for Long Island roof repair or replacement.
Here’s what you should look for before you call a licensed roofer near you.
The Five Most Common Signs of Damaged Roofing Shingles
Problems like cracked shingles, splitting, and curling are warning signs that your roof needs a spot repair or complete replacement.
- Linear Fissures: Vertical, horizontal, or diagonal cracks can develop in individual shingles. These often look like dark veins and are a sign that individual shingles need replacing.
- Webbed Cracks: Webbed cracks are harder to see from the yard or roadside. Also known as surface cracking, shallow cracks form all over the surface of shingles as they dry out in the sun. This usually happens at the very end of shingle life, after 10 to 15 years. This type of cracking won’t usually affect waterproofing or stability, but it’s a sign that the system is nearing the age of roof replacement.
- Thermal Splitting: These cracks are often long and visible from the yard. Straight vertical cracks form as shingles expand and contract with extreme temperature shifts. The line will often run across several shingles.
- Curled Shingles: Cracking is often combined with curled edges as shingles become brittle and distorted. Individual shingles may curve upwards (cupping) or downwards (clawing). This creates a high risk of shingle tear-off in strong winds. Curled shingles will also allow water to penetrate through to the underlayment.
- Missing Granules: You might not see cracking from the yard when looking at your roof, but you could easily notice the signs of missing granules. Areas surrounding cracks and deep fissures will lose their mineral granules. This sand-like material can collect in gutters or on the ground around your home. Talk to a licensed roofing contractor if you notice bald or shiny spots that look darker than the rest of your roof.
Shingles can crack without causing leaks, but you should never ignore the problem. As cracks worsen, your shingles will no longer protect your home, increasing the risk of water penetration and rot.
Roof Repair vs. Roof Replacement – Which is Best for Me?
If your roof is in good condition and cracked shingles are isolated, a simple spot repair might be all you need to restore your roof and protect your home.
However, if there is extensive damage or if your roof is over 15 years old, a replacement is often needed. Licensed roofing contractors on Long Island typically recommend a complete roof replacement for old shingles. Even with a spot repair, there’s a high risk that other shingles will crack and fail.
For significant cracking across a large surface area, your roofing contractor will also consider the 30% rule. If 30% or more of the roof is affected, a complete replacement is often more economical. You will get a new roofing surface with a fresh warranty, giving you peace of mind for the years to come.
Call a Trusted Long Island Roofing Contractor for a Complete Roof Inspection
Have you noticed the signs of cracked shingles on your roof? You can call Renew Roofing Solutions from Suffolk or Nassau County for a detailed roof inspection today. We will assess the damage, recommend a roof repair or replacement, and provide a free quote.
Your roof is one of the most important features of your home. Ensuring that it’s waterproof and in good condition can help prevent severe damage and costly repair bills. Talk to Renew Roofing Solutions at 516-212-0307 or 914-415-7702 today.