Why Aren’t The Shingles Perfectly Flat After Installing?

As a homeowner, you might wonder why shingles don't appear perfectly flat after a roofing installation. Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon can help you make informed decisions and ease any concerns you may have. In this blog post, we will explore the factors that contribute to shingles not being perfectly flat after installation. Prrotect Roofing, a trusted St. Louis roofing company, is here to shed light on this topic and provide valuable insights.

Material Characteristics

Shingles are made of various materials, including asphalt, fiberglass, wood, or slate. Each material possesses unique properties that affect its behavior after installation. For example, asphalt shingles can have a slight curvature due to their composition and the manufacturing process. This curvature helps the shingles lay flat and creates a tight seal to protect your home from the elements.

Temperature and Weather Conditions:

Temperature and weather conditions play a significant role in the installation process and the appearance of shingles. During warmer weather, shingles can soften and become more flexible, making it easier to install them. However, when temperatures drop, shingles can become stiff, which may cause slight imperfections or irregularities in their flatness. It's important to note that these imperfections do not compromise the functionality or longevity of the roof.

Deck Condition and Preparation

The condition and preparation of the roof deck before shingle installation can affect the final appearance. Even with careful installation, an uneven or damaged roof deck may cause slight variations in the flatness of the shingles. Ensuring proper deck preparation, including repairing any damaged areas and addressing underlying structural issues, can help minimize such variations.

Shingle Overlapping Technique

During the installation process, shingles are overlapped to provide proper water shedding and protection. This overlapping technique, known as the "staggered" or "offset" pattern, ensures that water flows down the roof without seeping underneath the shingles. The overlapping nature of shingles can result in minor differences in height or contour along the roofline.

Settling and Adjustment Period

After installation, shingles may undergo a settling and adjustment period. Over time, shingles may adapt to the roof's contours and flatten out further. This process is normal and expected. It's important to remember that slight variations in flatness are generally cosmetic and do not impact the roof's performance or durability.

While it's natural to expect perfectly flat shingles after installation, slight irregularities are a common occurrence in roofing projects. Factors such as material characteristics, temperature and weather conditions, deck condition, shingle overlapping technique, and settling and adjustment periods can all contribute to these variations. As a St. Louis homeowner, it's essential to understand that these imperfections do not compromise the functionality or longevity of your roof.

If you have any concerns about your roof's appearance or need professional advice, Prrotect Roofing is here to assist you. Our experienced team can assess your roof, address any questions or issues you may have, and provide expert solutions.

Remember, a reliable and experienced roofing company like Prrotect Roofing ensures proper installation techniques and quality materials to deliver a roof that performs optimally and protects your home for years to come.