Asphalt shingles are composed of mats made from organic or fiberglass material impregnated with asphalt, in which are embedded colored mineral granules. Organic-base asphalt shingles, have a felt mat made from wood and paper fibers.
Fiberglass based asphalt shingles, commonly called fiberglass shingles have a fiberglass mat. Asphalt roofing is also manufactured in the form of roll roofing. Though shapes vary , many asphalt shingles are notched art
intervals to form tabs, giving the appearence of smaller units. They usually last from 15 to 25 years, depending on the climate and type of mat. Asphalt shingles that are aging may show bald spots; another clue to aging is a
heavy accumulation of granules in the gutters, indicating crumbling shingles.
Check your roof's condition on a warm day when the shingles are flexible. Remove a tiny piece of the corner from one or two shingles on each roof plane; the core of the shingle should be black. Gently bend several shingles
back to see if they are flexible. If a number of shingles appear gray and bloated, if the material crumbles easily, or if you see large bare spots or damaged areas, consider replacing the roof.
Cracked, torn or curled shingles can be repaired, replace any loose or missing nails. If some of the shingles are badley worn or damaged, replace them. Use shingles that remain from the original roof installation. If you dont have any left over shingles, youll have to buy new ones-identical in brand, color and size, if possible. Fasten the shingles with galvanized
roofing nails long enough to penetrate all roofing layers (at least 1 1/2 inches long).
Dont remove a damaged shingle thats on a ridge or along a hip; instead, nail each corner in place. Then apply roofing cement to the bottom of a new shingle and place it over the defective one. Nail each corner, then cover the
nail heads with roofing cement. When you repair asphalt shingles, do the work on a warm day when the shingles are more pliable; cold shingles are
brittle and can break easily. Also, have roofing cement at room temperature so it will spread more easily.
