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Causes of blistering roofs and what to do about it


May 22, 2019

Roof repairs are a fact of life for every homeowner. But even the most well-maintained roofs can experience some pretty surprising issues before you even notice the warning signs. For many homeowners in the sunny Denver metro area, blistering roof shingles are a major problem. Luckily, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of blistering in the first place and keep your roof in good condition even in the heat. Your Denver roofers explain.

Understanding the Causes of Blisters
Blisters almost always result from exposure to intense heat. This can happen in several ways, but in Denver, the heat is most often the result of intense sun exposure. And it’s no wonder. We regularly get 245 days of sun each year. 

If you have shade trees that extend to your roof, you’ll be less likely to seen blisters forming on your shingles. But if your roof is constantly exposed to the sun’s UV rays, blisters can and will happen. And if your attic has inadequate ventilation and air circulation, those blisters will form more quickly.

Think of it this way: when your attic doesn’t get enough air flow, heat won’t dissipate. This means the roofing materials are constantly exposed to heat inside the house and that heat is compounded by the sun outside. 

What Blisters Look Like
Asphalt shingle blisters look like raised bubbles on the shingles themselves. They can be small or quarter-sized depending on the conditions and they can appear sporadically or cover the entire shingle. For most homeowners, seeing those blisters won’t be possible unless you’re on a ladder and looking at the shingles up close. 

How to Deal with Roof Blisters
For the most part, roof blisters aren’t a huge deal for your roof. They do indicate that your shingles are weak and can be prone to leaks and damage in the future. But that doesn’t mean you need to rush out and replace them as soon as you see signs of damage. In fact, blistered shingles can still protect your roof for several more years. 

That said, you will want to stay on top of regular maintenance and have your roofer inspect your attic for proper insulation and ventilation levels. Regular maintenance will let you keep major leaks and damage from happening in the first place and lets your roofer monitor the severity of the blisters over time. Eventually, you will want to replace your roof, but your roofer will let you know when the time is right. 

Keep Your Roof in Good Shape
Though blistered asphalt shingles are not cause for immediate concern, you will want to watch them and make sure the damage doesn’t get worse. Schedule a routine inspection at least twice a year and have any minor leaks repaired as soon as you notice the damage. This will help extend the life of your roof even with blistered shingles. 

Whether you’ve noticed damage on your roof or just want an experienced pair of eyes to check things out, our contractors are here for you. Contact us today to make an appointment.