Savannah is loved for its mild winters, historic charm, and plenty of Southern sunshine. That same environment, however, can create wear on your roof. Homeowners in Savannah often wonder if the raised or uneven look on their roof signals serious damage or just natural aging.
The team at Best Choice Roofing of Savannah has inspected hundreds of roofs with this exact concern. The answer? Lifting and warping are both important to address, and they often point to different issues that need professional attention.
What Causes Shingles to Lift?
Lifted shingles begin to separate from the roof deck. Instead of sitting flat, their edges pull up and create openings for wind and water. This type of damage typically results from:
- Improper nailing during installation
- Adhesive strips that have worn out or failed
- Wind damage from summer storms
- Poor ventilation that traps heat and moisture beneath the shingles
Lifted shingles lose their ability to protect the structure underneath. Even if the shingles haven’t torn off, they are no longer functioning as a complete barrier against moisture and debris.
What Does Warping Mean?
Warping and curling refer to shingles that bend or appear wavy, often at the edges. These changes are usually caused by long-term sun exposure, aging materials, or moisture buildup. While curling shingles may not indicate immediate failure, they are a sign the roof is approaching the end of its effective life.
In Savannah’s climate, shingle warping is more common due to:
- Persistent humidity
- Intense summer heat
- Algae growth and moisture retention
- Shingles that are 15 years old or more
When shingles curl or warp, they lose the tight seal that helps shed water. This can increase the chances of leaks over time.
Why Savannah Weather Makes These Issues Worse
Even outside of hurricane season, Savannah experiences strong storms, frequent humidity, and long stretches of heat. Shingles exposed to this environment often show early signs of lifting or curling. In neighborhoods near the river or with heavy tree cover, moisture tends to linger, which speeds up wear and tear.
These local conditions mean that even newer roofs can show signs of damage if they weren’t installed correctly or maintained well.
How to Spot the Difference
From ground level, it can be difficult to know what kind of roof wear you’re seeing. These are some clues:
- Lifted shingles may cast shadows or show visible gaps underneath
- Warped shingles often appear curled or uneven across the surface
- Granule loss in gutters can indicate aging or weakened shingles
- Stains or moisture in the attic may point to water intrusion
A professional roof inspection provides clarity. Our team looks for specific patterns in nail placement, adhesive condition, and material wear to determine what’s causing the issue.
Why Timely Repairs Matter
Ignoring early signs of lifting or curling can lead to:
- Water infiltration that damages ceilings and insulation
- Mold and mildew buildup from trapped moisture
- Full shingle blow-off in strong winds
- Decreased energy efficiency due to ventilation issues
Addressing minor problems now can help avoid a full roof replacement later.
What Best Choice Roofing of Savannah Recommends
If you’ve noticed curling shingles, wavy edges, or uneven lines on your roof, schedule a professional inspection. Our technicians review your entire roofing system to identify underlying causes and recommend the right next step.
If the problem is small and isolated, we may suggest a targeted repair. If wear is widespread or materials are near the end of their lifespan, we’ll talk through replacement options that hold up better in Savannah’s hot, humid climate.
How to Reduce Weather-Related Shingle Damage
Coastal humidity and seasonal storms are tough on roofs, but preventive care makes a difference. We recommend:
- Trimming tree limbs that hang over the roof
- Scheduling seasonal inspections, especially after summer storms
- Keeping gutters free of debris to prevent moisture buildup
- Choosing shingles designed for high-humidity, algae-prone areas
Best Choice Roofing Savannah uses roofing products built to perform in the Southeast’s toughest weather. Our installations focus on long-term durability and performance.
Know What’s Really Happening on Your Roof
If your shingles are curling, lifting, or just looking off, don’t rely on guesses. A professional evaluation helps you understand what’s happening and what to do next. Contact Best Choice Roofing of Savannah to schedule a free roof inspection. Our team will explain the cause, recommend the right course of action, and help you protect your home with confidence.
