At Best Choice Roofing, we know your roof is more than just a simple layer of protection; it’s your home’s first line of defense against the wildest moods of Mother Nature. Whether you’re in downtown Wilmington enjoying waterfront views or out near Wrightsville Beach catching some rays, you need a roof that can handle it all. That’s why we proudly offer a range of high-quality asphalt shingles to fit every style and budget, including three-tab, architectural, premium, and impact-resistant shingles. No matter your home’s personality, we’ve got the perfect shingle to keep it looking sharp and staying strong.
But if you live in a beautiful coastal state like North Carolina, especially in coastal cities like Wilmington, you might notice your asphalt shingles start to curl faster than expected. What gives? Let’s break it down.
The Sneaky Science Behind Shingle Curling
Curling shingles might sound like a minor aesthetic issue, but they’re actually a big red flag. When shingles curl, they lift up at the edges or in the middle, exposing your roof to leaks, wind damage, and more serious (and expensive) problems down the road.
In coastal states like North Carolina, there are a few key culprits that speed up this pesky problem:
1. Salt in the Air
Living by the ocean has endless perks, beach days, fresh seafood, stunning sunsets, but the salty sea breeze isn’t as friendly to your roof. Salt particles in the air land on your shingles, gradually breaking down the protective layers and causing them to dry out and curl. It’s like your roof is getting a constant, salty exfoliation it never asked for!
2. High Humidity and Heat
Coastal climates, especially around Wilmington, are known for their muggy summers. Combine that heavy humidity with scorching sun rays, and your shingles go through a constant cycle of expansion and contraction. This temperature rollercoaster weakens the asphalt and the adhesive layers beneath, which leads to curling. Over time, it’s a recipe for brittle, warped shingles that can’t perform their best.
3. Frequent Storms and Wind Gusts
North Carolina’s coastal regions experience plenty of heavy storms and strong winds, especially during hurricane season. High winds can lift shingles slightly over and over again, creating tiny gaps where moisture can sneak in. Once water infiltrates, it can compromise the shingle structure and encourage even more curling.
4. UV Exposure
The sun in coastal areas is relentless. UV rays break down the asphalt in your shingles, causing them to lose their flexibility and protective granules faster than in cooler, less sunny climates. Without those granules, shingles become more vulnerable to curling and cracking.
Why It Matters
Curled shingles are not just a cosmetic issue; they seriously weaken your roof’s ability to protect your home. Once shingles start curling, they can no longer lie flat against the roof surface, allowing wind-driven rain to slip underneath. This can cause leaks, mold growth, and even structural damage inside your home. Plus, curled shingles are much more likely to break off completely during strong storms, leaving you scrambling for emergency repairs.
How Best Choice Roofing Can Help
Here’s where Best Choice Roofing swoops in to save the day! We offer four types of asphalt shingles designed to handle Wilmington’s coastal challenges:
- Three-tab shingles: The classic choice for homeowners who want simplicity and affordability.
- Architectural shingles: Known for their dimensional look and improved durability.
- Premium shingles offer enhanced aesthetics and higher performance, which are ideal for coastal beauty and resilience.
- Impact-resistant shingles: Built to stand up to hail, high winds, and other severe weather conditions.
Our roofing crew understands the unique needs of coastal homes and will guide you toward the shingle that suits your home’s style and can handle the salty air and steamy summers. We also install your roof with precision and high-quality underlayment to help prevent moisture buildup and ensure your shingles stay as flat and strong as possible.
Don’t Wait for the Curl
The sooner you tackle shingle curling, the better. Ignoring those slight lifts can lead to expensive headaches in the future. Whether your roof is already showing signs of curling or you just want to get ahead of the game, our crew is ready to help you protect what matters most.
Ready to fight back against curling shingles and coastal wear and tear? Call Best Choice Roofing today for a free inspection and let us show you why homeowners in Wilmington trust us to keep their homes safe and stylish, rain, shine, or hurricane. Let’s give your roof the beach vacation it deserves, strong, beautiful, and worry-free!
