If you’ve started to notice that your roof shingles are curling up at the edges or buckling in spots, it’s not just a strange look — it could mean trouble. These signs can show up gradually and might not seem like a big deal at first. But over time, they open the door to leaks, costly repairs, or even a full roof replacement if left unchecked.
Curling and buckling shingles are early warning signs that something is off with your roof. There could be several reasons behind them, and figuring out what’s going on is the first step to fixing it. Knowing what causes this and how to catch it early can save you a lot of stress down the road. Let’s take a closer look at why this happens and what you can do to stop it.
Causes Of Curling And Buckling Shingles
Shingles don’t just change shape for no reason. They react to what’s going on underneath and around them. A few common causes tend to show up repeatedly, especially in areas with strong sun and occasional storms like Albuquerque.
1. Poor Attic Ventilation
Hot air trapped in your attic can build up quickly, especially during warm months. When that heat has nowhere to go, it pushes back against your shingles from below, softening them and making them warp. Over time, this leads to curling or buckling. Good attic ventilation lets heat escape and reduces the strain on your shingles.
2. Moisture Problems
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to roofing. If water sneaks into your attic due to a leak or high humidity inside the home, it can affect the underlying layer beneath your shingles. This weakens the structure and causes the shingles to lift or pucker. The longer this moisture builds up, the worse the damage becomes, and it often begins along seams and edges.
3. Poor Installation or Aging Materials
Shingles need to be properly placed and nailed to lie flat. If they were installed on a day that was too hot or too cold or if they weren’t secured correctly, they may never settle right. Over time, they’ll begin to bend or twist. Age also plays a big role. Roofs over 20 years old naturally show more wear, and curling or buckling becomes more common as materials begin to break down.
These problems can compound each other. For example, poor attic ventilation that traps moisture speeds up the aging of the roofing materials, causing multiple layers of damage that become harder and more expensive to fix.
How Weather In Albuquerque Affects Roof Shingles
Living in Albuquerque means dealing with a mix of weather patterns that take a toll on roofing. Sunny skies, dry conditions, and rapid temperature shifts are part of daily life here. That constant exposure is tough on your shingles.
Here are some of the ways the local weather impacts roofs:
– Intense sun exposure dries out shingles and makes them brittle faster.
– UV rays break down the protective top layer of the shingles.
– Hot afternoons heat up attics, which puts pressure on shingles from below.
– Sudden temperature drops at night cause shingles to shrink, and the cycle of expanding and contracting wears them down.
– Monsoon rains, when they come, are fast and heavy. If a shingle is already loose or weakened, rainwater can get underneath and cause more damage.
South- and west-facing sections of your roof tend to suffer the most since they catch more sunlight throughout the day. Pay special attention to these spots during roof checks or maintenance appointments.
Staying aware of how the weather affects your shingles is one of the best ways to plan ahead and make repairs at the right time.
Preventive Measures To Keep Shingles Intact
The best way to keep your shingles from curling or buckling is to be proactive. Most roofing problems start small. If you keep an eye out and make small repairs early, you can avoid big issues later. Regular upkeep keeps your roof strong year-round.
Here are some simple preventive steps:
– Schedule professional roof inspections at least once or twice a year. Right before and after the monsoon season is a great time.
– Make sure your attic has solid ventilation to move out heat and moisture.
– If you see signs of leaks or moisture inside your home — like stains on the ceiling — act fast.
– When replacing or repairing shingles, choose high-quality materials that are made for hot, dry climates like Albuquerque.
– Ask your roofing contractor about materials that handle UV rays well. Some products last longer and resist curling under direct sun.
– Ensure your roof was installed correctly. Even one small area put in wrong can lead to widespread problems over time.
Addressing these key areas early can give your roof the extra years it needs to do its job well. It also helps avoid surprises during weather events or when temperatures suddenly change.
When To Call A Professional Roofer
Knowing when it’s time to call in a roofing expert can help you avoid expensive damage. Some signs are easy to spot, and others might be hidden until you get up close or have a professional take a look.
Here are a few signals that you need help:
– Multiple shingles that are lifting or curling
– Strange-looking waves or bends on parts of the roof
– Water leaks or stains in your attic or on interior ceilings
– Granules from shingles collecting in your gutters
– A rise in energy bills, which can mean heat is leaking through a weak roof
If you see any of these signs, don’t wait. A roofing specialist can inspect your roof, figure out what’s going wrong below the surface, and offer lasting fixes before things get worse.
Professional roofers understand the weather and climate of Albuquerque and know what materials and methods work best. Getting expert help means your roof will not only get fixed but will be ready for whatever the next season brings.
Give Your Roof the Best Chance to Last
Curling and buckling shingles are warnings that your roof needs attention. They may start small, but the longer they’re ignored, the more risk they pose to your home. Watching for the early signs, keeping your attic cool and dry, and using the right shingles for Albuquerque’s climate all make a difference.
Roof maintenance doesn’t need to be complicated. With routine checks and help from a local expert, you’re far more likely to catch small problems before they become major repairs. A strong roof stays flat, well-sealed, and ready to protect your home year after year.
If your shingles are starting to lift, or your roof hasn’t been checked in a while, it may be time to talk with a professional. Albuquerque roofs need year-round care, and with the right help, your roof can handle every season without worry.
To ensure your roof stays strong through every season, trust the team at Sol System Builders to handle inspections, repairs, and long-term care. If you’re looking for reliable roofing for residential properties, we deliver solutions that protect your home and prevent small issues from becoming expensive problems. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help keep your roof in top condition.
