Shingle Cracking and Splitting: What Exactly Is the Difference?

There are plenty of things that can damage your roofing system, which is why you’ll want to keep tabs on its condition. There are cases where asphalt shingles will crack, and instances where they’ll start to split. These signs of damage appear similar, but they’re actually not. Renovation Team, one of the area’s leading roofing specialists, shares the difference between the two.

Shingle Cracking

Both cracked and split shingles are represented by lines running along the surface of individual shingles. If one takes a closer look, they may find that the cracks in the roofing material are actually shallow. But this doesn’t mean the issue isn’t serious. Cracks can weaken the entire surface of the asphalt shingles, causing them to buckle or get blown off by high wind speeds later on. The primary reason for cracked shingles is general wear and tear. Thermal expansion also plays a role, and is in fact responsible for the smaller and shallower breaks across the material.

Shingle Splitting

When asphalt shingles split, one typically discovers that the fissures running through the material are deeper. In fact, the split can go all the way through the shingle. Splitting occurs because of thermal expansion, which causes the different shingle layers to start pulling away from each other. Because the breaks in split shingles are deeper, they make it easy for water to pass through the material and into the more vulnerable parts of your roof. 

How to Deal With Shingle Cracking and Splitting

These are both serious issues. Once the shingles start cracking or splitting, the entire roof system becomes vulnerable to weather damage. Repairs may work, but only temporarily. For this reason, you should turn to Renovation Team promptly for a complete roof replacement. Our selection of asphalt shingle roof systems are both durable and high-quality, allowing them to resist premature wear and tear and thermal expansion. Get in touch with us and we’ll help you explore your options and decide on the replacement roof that best suits your needs.

Give Us a Call Today

Few contractors can match Renovation Team when it comes to roof installation service. Make us your top choice and see firsthand why we remain an unrivaled roofer in St. Louis County. Call us today at (636) 939-1061, or fill out this contact form to get started on your roof upgrade. Our service areas include St. Louis, St. Charles, and Creve Coeur, MO. We look forward to hearing from you!