Cupping Shingles and Curling Asphalt Roof Shingles Signal Roof Shingle Replacement

Stay off the roof, as curling and cupping asphalt shingles are extremely fragile and by walking on them you run the risk of cracking them and causing roof leaks.

Curling and cupping shingles may not leak for a couple of years, however they are at the stage where they could leak at any time, and thus why I recommend replacing them as soon as possible. Curling Shingles and Cupping Roof Shingles can occur for a Variety of Reasons The shingles may simply be old and solar and weather conditions may have simply got the best of them.

Learn how to shingle a roof here.

However, in many cases cupping and curling roof shingles is a sign of inadequate insulation and ventilation in the attic. 

If heat builds up in the attic and is not relieved by ridge, soffit, and gable vents, the roof shingles can become extremely stressed. This stress manifests itself in distorted and cracked shingles.

Watch this short video on proper attic ventilation techniques.

Curling and cupping asphalt roof shingles can also be the result of ice dams. Water that works its way up under shingles and then freezes distorts and stresses the asphalt shingles significantly. Again, proper attic ventilation and insulation can prevent ice dams from occurring.  Learn how to prevent roof ice dams from ever occurring here.

Crumbling, curled and cupped Shingles

So if you observe cupping shingles, fishmouthing shingles,  or curling asphalt shingles, contact a roofing contractor as soon as possible. Know in advance that there is no repairing curling shingles, or fishmouthing or cupping shingles. When your asphalt shingles exhibit these signs, its time for roof shingle replacement, and I mean for the entire roof.

If the asphalt shingle distortion occurred well short of the expected life of the shingles also inspect your attic to make sure you have adequate attic ventilation and insulation.