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  • Writer's pictureSue Nassiri

Asphalt Shingle Rippling: What Does It Mean?

For many homeowners in Corona, CA, asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material. While this durable and affordable option is a great choice for residential properties, it can be vulnerable to certain issues. One such issue is rippling — but what does it mean? In this blog post, we'll look at what asphalt shingle rippling is. We'll discuss how to identify it on your roof, and how to prevent and fix the problem if you have it.


What Is Asphalt Shingle Rippling? Asphalt shingle rippling occurs when granules become dislodged from the surface of an asphalt shingle due to extreme heat exposure or physical damage such as hail storms. This causes small waves or ridges across the surface of the affected area that can lead to larger problems down the road if left unchecked.

How to Identify Asphalt Shingle Rippling Identifying asphalt shingle rippling isn't always easy since these waves usually form slowly over time due to long-term exposure rather than any single event (i.e., hailstorms). However, there are some common signs that you should watch out for, such as:

  • Blistered paint on walls beneath windows facing direct sunlight

  • Uneven surfaces along sloped sections

  • Flaking or worn-down granules near ridge lines

  • Gaps between each course (row) of tiles where they meet up with another section below them.

  • Alligator cracks (cracks that are patterned like reptilian skin) forming within multiple courses near peak locations.

If you notice any combination of these telltale symptoms, it may be time for further inspection by a roofing contractor before more serious damage occurs!


How to Prevent Asphalt Shingle Rippling The best way to prevent asphalt shingle ripples from occurring on your roof is by conducting proper maintenance and inspections during both summer and winter. This is especially crucial when severe weather events could impact roofs directly. One way to keep asphalt shingles in good condition is by having your roof inspected at least twice a year or whenever you notice any of the warning signs we discussed above. You should also ensure that your attic space is well-ventilated and has adequate insulation to prevent excess heat buildup during the hot summers. This will reduce the chances of rippling due to overheating from direct sunlight exposure. Additionally, it's important to check for any damaged flashing around chimneys and vents, as these can cause air to circulate into the exposed areas. This leads to further deterioration of underlying support structures like rafters and sheathing boards.

Solutions for Rippled Roofs in Corona, CA If you already have rippling on your roof, then there are two possible solutions: re-sealing or replacing the existing asphalt shingle tiles with new ones. A type of roof repair, re-sealing involves applying a sealant over the top of an area where granules have been dislodged, which helps protect them from further damage while also making them less noticeable. However, this may not be enough if too much deterioration has occurred, so a roof replacement might be necessary — more so when dealing with larger sections. If you think you may have asphalt shingle rippling on your roof or are due for maintenance or inspection, don't hesitate to contact the experts at A1 Quality Roofing, Inc. in Corona, CA. We have over 25 years of experience working with all types of roofs and can help you determine the best course of action to take to protect your investment. Call us today at (951) 877-4406 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation!


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