Why Do Asphalt Shingles Fail Faster in PA Weather?
- Gerken Roofing
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
AI Summary
Learn why Pennsylvania’s climate causes asphalt shingles to age faster.
Understand how heat, humidity, storms, and freeze cycles damage roofs.
Discover the early warning signs of shingle failure.
See when to schedule roof inspections or roof repair to prevent leaks.
Why Do Asphalt Shingles Fail Faster in PA Weather?
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials in Irwin, Pittsburgh, and surrounding Western Pennsylvania communities. While they are durable and affordable, many homeowners notice their shingles aging faster than expected. In a region with intense storms, freezing winters, and hot summers, Pennsylvania’s climate plays a major role in how quickly roofing materials break down.
Understanding why shingles fail helps homeowners prevent damage, plan maintenance, and make informed decisions about repairs or replacement. Whether your roof is aging or newly installed, this guide covers the key climate factors that cause asphalt shingles to deteriorate more quickly in PA weather.
Pennsylvania Weather and Asphalt Shingle Lifespan
Most asphalt shingles are rated to last 20 to 30 years under ideal conditions. However, Pennsylvania’s climate is far from mild. Rapid weather changes, seasonal storms, and year-round moisture create harsh conditions that speed up wear and tear.
A few environmental factors that impact shingle lifespan include:
High humidity
Freeze-thaw cycles
Heavy rain and storms
Strong winds
UV exposure
Moss and algae growth
Even high-quality shingles, including architectural varieties, require proper installation and consistent maintenance to withstand PA’s seasonal extremes.
The Top Reasons Asphalt Shingles Fail Faster in PA Weather
Below are the most common factors that accelerate shingle deterioration for local homeowners.
1. Freeze-Thaw Cycles Cause Cracking
One of the biggest contributors to shingle damage in Western PA is the freeze-thaw cycle. Water seeps into small gaps or under shingle edges. When temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands, pushing shingles further apart.
This leads to:
Cracked shingles
Lifted edges
Loosened granules
Exposed underlayment
Repeated freeze-thaw stress throughout winter shortens the lifespan of any asphalt roof.
2. Summer Heat Weakens Asphalt Adhesives
Contrary to cold-weather problems, summer heat also damages shingles. High temperatures soften asphalt, weakening the adhesive strips that keep shingles sealed tightly.
Effects of prolonged heat include:
Curling edges
Deformed shingles
“Blistering” on the surface
Increased granule loss
Homes with dark-colored roofs or limited attic ventilation often experience faster deterioration.
3. Heavy Rainfall Saturates Shingles
Pennsylvania receives significant rainfall throughout the year, including intense storms during spring and summer. When shingles absorb moisture over time, the asphalt begins to break down.
Prolonged moisture exposure causes:
Mold and mildew beneath shingles
Softened underlayment
Weakening of the shingle bond
Early leakage
This is particularly common around chimneys, valleys, and poorly sealed flashing areas.
4. Strong Winds Lift and Loosen Shingles
Irwin and Pittsburgh often experience high winds during storms. Even moderate gusts can loosen nails, break adhesive seals, or lift shingles at the corners.
Once shingles lift, they:
Allow wind-driven rain underneath
Become more vulnerable to tearing
Expose nails and seams
Cause water to penetrate the roof deck
Wind-damaged shingles are a leading cause of storm-related leaks.
5. Algae and Moss Growth Accelerate Deterioration
Humid summers create ideal conditions for algae growth. The familiar dark streaks on roofs are caused by algae feeding on limestone filler within shingles.
Moss growth is even more damaging because it holds moisture against the shingle surface, leading to:
Rot
Granule loss
Shingle curling
Decomposition over time
Homes shaded by trees or with poor roof drainage are particularly vulnerable.
6. UV Exposure Breaks Down Asphalt Over Time
Sunlight causes shingles to heat up and cool down repeatedly, weakening the asphalt and adhesive layers.
UV rays lead to:
Fading
Granule shedding
Surface cracking
Loss of weatherproofing
South-facing roof sections age significantly faster than shaded areas.
7. Poor Attic Ventilation Intensifies Weather Damage
A roof is only as strong as its ventilation. Without proper airflow, attics trap heat and moisture, causing the underside of the shingles to deteriorate.
Poor ventilation leads to:
Warped plywood
Premature shingle curling
Extreme attic heat
Reduced shingle lifespan
Fixing ventilation issues can help prevent further deterioration and reduce energy bills.
8. Storm Debris Causes Physical Damage
Branches, hail, and wind-blown debris can bruise or puncture shingles. Even small dents weaken the structural layers and encourage water infiltration.
Hailstorms especially cause:
Bruising
Surface fractures
Granule loss
Weak spots prone to leaks
Pennsylvania homes should be inspected after any major storm event.
Early Warning Signs of Shingle Failure
Catching issues early is the best way to prevent leaks or major repairs. Common signs your shingles are deteriorating include:
Curling edges
Cracked shingles
Granules in gutters
Bald patches
Dark streaks
Missing shingles
Soft or sagging roof spots
Moss or algae growth
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a roof inspection right away.
Problem to Solution: Protecting Your Roof from Early Failure
Problem: Shingles are curling or cracking
Solution: Schedule a professional roof repair to stop leaks and evaluate whether shingles are failing.
Problem: Your roof keeps showing signs of granule loss
Solution: A roofing expert can determine whether the shingles are aging prematurely and need replacement.
Problem: Attic ventilation is poor
Solution: Improve airflow to prevent further heat damage and moisture buildup.
Problem: Storms frequently hit your area
Solution: After major storms, request an inspection to identify hidden issues.
Problem: You are unsure if your shingles are close to failing
Solution: A full assessment helps determine whether a partial or full roof replacement is the most cost-efficient choice.
People Also Ask
Why do shingles wear out faster in the Northeast?
The combination of cold winters, humid summers, and frequent storms accelerates deterioration.
Do asphalt shingles fail faster in humid climates?
Yes. Moisture weakens adhesive layers and encourages algae growth.
Can better attic ventilation extend shingle life?
Absolutely. Proper airflow reduces heat and moisture damage.
How long do asphalt shingles usually last in PA?
Many last 18 to 25 years, depending on maintenance and weather conditions.
FAQ Section
Should I replace shingles when they start curling?
Yes. Curling indicates weather damage or aging and can lead to leaks.
How do I prevent algae on shingles?
Regular cleaning and installing algae-resistant shingles help maintain appearance and performance.
Can I repair only damaged areas?
Sometimes, but widespread deterioration often requires a full replacement for safety.
Do better-quality shingles handle PA weather better?
Yes. Products like Atlas Shingles offer improved durability, algae protection, and wind resistance.
Protect Your Roof from Fast Shingle Failure
Pennsylvania weather is tough on asphalt shingles, but early maintenance and professional care keep your roof performing at its best. If you notice curling, cracking, granule loss, or storm damage, Gerken Roofing is here to help with expert solutions designed for local weather conditions.
Call 724-515-5551 or fill out the online form to schedule your inspection. Gerken Roofing proudly serves Irwin, Pittsburgh, and nearby Western PA communities with reliable roofing services built to withstand Pennsylvania’s toughest weather.
