Thread: Torn or Split Shingles?

What are the possible causes for the vertical splits in these shingles?
aIMG_4131.JPGaIMG_4136.JPG

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Originally Posted by William Kievit

What are the possible causes for the vertical splits in these shingles?
aIMG_4131.JPGaIMG_4136.JPG

Looks like the sheathing has moved and torn the shingles in one photo, maybe the same in the other photo but almost looks too clean of a split for a random tear even if along a seam.
Any other indications of shifting roof sheathing; foundation repair, attic framing repair, etc.?

A wide angle picture of the house might help. Maybe its a point in the structure where an addition connects to the original structure. Any difference in slight movement between the connected structures could cause that if the shingles are older and brittle.

Expansion/contraction of the roof sheathing. This was a real common problems many years ago when fiberglass shingles were a relatively new thing. Don't see it much any more. I think APA has a download discussing this. There is a lot of info out there about this problem.

Expansion/contraction of the roof sheathing. This was a real common problems many years ago when fiberglass shingles were a relatively new thing. Don't see it much any more. I think APA has a download discussing this. There is a lot of info out there about this problem.

One other idea to consider is damage from excessive snow and ice load. Carefully check the framing members. Luck may have been one someone's side!

Check out haageducation.com.

Originally Posted by Jim Luttrall

Looks like the sheathing has moved and torn the shingles in one photo, maybe the same in the other photo but almost looks too clean of a split for a random tear even if along a seam.
Any other indications of shifting roof sheathing; foundation repair, attic framing repair, etc.?

Jim, this looks like what happens when the decking is not staggered, resulting in a continuous vertical decking joint. When this is observed at only one location it usually indicates a tie in to an addition. When it occurs at more than one location it may indicate decking installed over the entire affected area without staggered joints, in which case the splits will occur either 4' or 8' apart.

Don Putnam
www.roofconsulting.com

- - - Updated - - -

Originally Posted by William Kievit

What are the possible causes for the vertical splits in these shingles?
aIMG_4131.JPGaIMG_4136.JPG

Sorry, I meant to address my previous post to you, William.

Don Putnam
www.roofconsulting.com

Could be movement of substrate under the shingles. Depending upon age of the house, is there old planking under the shingles? Expansion and contraction underneath the shingles could have stressed them vertically over 10 years or so like this.

GAF Woodline and Timberline had a manufacturing defect and these appear to be part of that warranty issue though the Woodline grade were phased out in the mid to late 90's.