Why Are My New Asphalt Shingles Distorted? Roofing Contractors Explain

Your roofing contractors have just finished installing new asphalt shingles and are heading back to the office and you're ready to take a closer look at your new roof. You stroll around your house, taking in the beautiful color and style, then panic. You've noticed that some are distorted, despite having just been installed. It looks like some have a curve or bubble in them where they aren't lying flush with the decking. Do you call your roofing contractors and demand that they come fix the problem? It depends.


Normal Vs. Abnormal Distortion
It will surprise some homeowners to learn that when a roof is replaced, it isn't uncommon for some perfectly good shingles to temporarily look slightly bowed. But how do you know if you have a problem or if what you're seeing is perfectly normal? Your first step should be to call the company that did the installation and ask them to send someone out to take a look. Reputable roofing contractors will carefully inspect the areas in question and let you know if they need to do any repair work, but don't assume anything. In fact, there is a valid explanation for some distortion that doesn't offer any solution other than time -- shingle bundle distortion.

What Is Shingle Bundle Distortion?
Shingle bundle distortion is a relatively common phenomenon that produces some shingles that don't lay flat immediately after installation. In most cases, they will look slightly bowed or wavy. Sometimes they look as if their lower edge is lifting up from the decking. This is caused by bundles that have been stacked up, conforming to each other. Sometime between the manufacturing of the materials and the installation, some bundles were stacked on top of each other and developed a slight curve or wave that is more evident after they are individually installed on a residential roof. It isn't a manufacturing defect and in almost all cases it will subside over time.

What Should I Do To Fix Them?
The short answer to this question is 'nothing.' If it is bundle related, the heat of the sun will gradually help them to relax and the adhesive on their underside will soften and help form a strong bond as the shingles become flush with the roofing. This process of relaxing can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on climate and location. In cooler climates, it will take longer.

Don't Make A Mistake -- Talk To Your Roofing Contractors
Fight the urge to climb onto your roof and put additional adhesive under the shingles and force them down. If you do this, you could crack some that haven't warmed up or relaxed yet, damaging the roof. Trying to fix things yourself could also void the warranty on your roofing. If you need answers to your questions or would like an inspection of the area, call the roofing contractors who performed the installation. If you are worried about the warranty, you can rest easy knowing that the warranty for any reputable manufacturer will still be in force as long as you give your shingles the opportunity to relax properly without tampering with them, protecting your investment for years to come.

Opal Enterprises is the Naperville roofing installation leader, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. All of their roofing contractors in Naperville are bonded and insured for your protection. To learn more about asphalt shingles and other roofing materials, visit Opal's website.

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