Asphalt Shingle Roof

Asphalt shingles blister when air gets trapped between building materials, either within the layers of the shingle itself or in adhesives on the undersides of the shingles. As the roof heats up in direct sunlight, the trapped gas expands and creates a bubble in the roof. Eventually, the bubble can pop, leaving an exposed area of decking and underlayment.

Asphalt shingles most commonly suffer from granule loss, which can occur in any climate and just happens naturally as the roof is exposed to the elements. In areas that see more extreme weather, like hail, strong winds, and excessive rainfall, common issues can include pock marks from hailstones, curling or lifting shingles, or roof leaks and related mold growth on the roof decking below.

The short answer is, yes, cedar shakes do last longer than asphalt shingles. But the long answer is, it depends on maintenance. Asphalt shingles last about 20 years, while cedar shingles typically last about 30 years with proper maintenance. If they are very well maintained and installed in an area with a mild, drier climate, they can last up to 50 years.

Take a look at your roof shingles from the ground or from a ladder, and look for cracked or missing shingles, which are the most obvious signs of roof damage. You should also look for pockmarks from hail and blown debris, as well as blisters that could indicate a moisture issue or a problem with the installation. Inside your home, be on the lookout for water spots on the ceilings on your upper floor, as this is a clear sign of a roof leak.