The warning signs of a roofing problem are either as obvious as a leak, or as unobtrusive as loosened shingles. Wavy or rippling asphalt shingles, however, are tricky. You won’t know at first glance whether they actually indicate a roofing problem or not. The premier roofing expert in the area, Roofer Chicks, discusses what rippling in asphalt shingles can mean.

Damp Roof Underlayment
Asphalt shingles should appear flat and seamless with the roof. But if they’re newly installed, they tend to create a rippling effect on the roof surface. This may occur if the underlayment, a thin waterproof material placed between the deck and asphalt shingles, was installed while damp. This is not usually something to worry about. Just give your new roof a few weeks and the rippling should resolve itself, allowing for a roof surface that looks flat and sleek.
Roof Layover
An asphalt shingle roof can be installed in two ways: either have the new shingles layered over the old ones or have the entire roof system torn off before installing the new one. The former is called a roof layover, a method of installation that actually creates problems down the road. Laying a new roof over the old system not only produces that unsightly rippling effect in shingles, but also puts unnecessary stress on the entire roof system because of the additional weight. This, in turn, can compromise the roof’s structural integrity.
If you plan on having a new roof installed this season, it would be a better idea to invest in a complete roof tear-off instead. This particular installation method gives your new asphalt shingles a more stable foundation and prevents any potential for rippling. But to ensure your roof tear-off will be done in a correct and safe manner, turn only to a leading roof professional like Roofer Chicks for the job.
Request a Roofing Quote
The moment you see ripples in your asphalt shingles, call a trusted roofing professional like Roofer Chicks for a thorough inspection and the necessary solution. Give us a call today at (830) 629-7663, or fill out this contact form to schedule a roof evaluation. We take pride in serving homeowners in San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas.