There are two major reasons behind asphalt shingle roof blistering. In some cases, the shingles retain some moisture during the manufacturing process. As they are exposed to the sun, the moisture heats and begins to rise up, forcing blisters to form on your roofing surface.
The second reason has to do with ventilation. Hot air naturally rises. When your attic lacks proper ventilation, it traps that rising heat. That can make your attic’s temperature rise as high as 150 degrees. That intense heat bakes the shingles sitting above the attic. This is another cause of shingle blistering.
Is Roof Blistering Bad?
Not in all cases. Blisters can form on your roof shingles without popping. If this is the case, the shingles might not lose their granules. The granules protect them from UV damage, so your roof is fine.
If the blisters pop, on the other hand, that will cause the shingles to shed their protective granules. Without those granules, they are exposed to UV rays. Before long, your shingles will succumb to the elements. Popped blisters can eventually give way to leaks.
How Can You Prevent Roof Blistering?
Doing a simple visual inspection from the ground or on a ladder (with binoculars to better see your roof) can help you prevent damage. If you spot blisters on your roof, be careful not to walk on it. Trim any overhanging tree branches to protect your roof from branches that may scratch against it or fall on it and cause blisters to pop. You can also save on gutter repair with this simple move.
However, if you can’t stand the sight of roof blisters, or are worried that they’d pop anyway, you can replace the affected shingles. This may cost you some, however, especially if many shingles have blisters, so make sure it’s what you want to do. Hiring a professional is always safer than going DIY.
Here are a few more tips:
- Don’t buy cheap shingles. The savings you get with cheap shingles is an illusion. You’ll need to repair or replace them sooner.
- Don’t delay oof repair after a storm, particularly a nasty hailstorm.
- Always hire a reputable roofing contractor and ask about their strongest warranties on the material and the workmanship.
Chase Roofing LLC is a GAF Master Elite® roofing contractor. We can help you with roof blistering issues. Call us now at (757) 872-0700 or at (757) 206-1948 to schedule a free consultation, or contact us here. We’re ready to work with you in Newport News, VA.
