Have you noticed your roof shingles curling up on the edges? Curled shingles are a common issue in Central Florida due to intense sunlight, high humidity, heavy rain, and long stretches of heat.
When shingles curl or lift, it can signal ventilation problems, improper installation, or moisture damage. Prompt repair is essential to protect your home from leaks, mold growth, and costly structural damage.
In this guide, we’ll explain the most common causes of roof buckling and curled shingles, how to spot issues early, and why prompt repairs matter.
The Most Common Causes of Buckling
Central Florida’s climate puts extra stress on roofs, causing shingles to curl or buckle faster than in other regions. Shingles are meant to lie flat and protect your home from heat and moisture, but when they lift, crack, or buckle, they increase your home’s risk of water and roof damage.
Here are the most common causes of curled shingles in Florida:
Poor Ventilation
In Central Florida, attic temperatures can rise quickly, especially in summer. Without proper attic ventilation, heat and moisture build up under the shingles, causing them to dry out, warp, and curl. A professional roof inspection can help detect ventilation issues early and prevent shingle damage.
UV Exposure
UV rays dry out asphalt shingles, making them brittle. As the shingles lose their natural oils, they become more likely to bend, peel, or curl at the edges. Clawed shingles are also more likely to crack, lift, or fail during storms, making them especially susceptible to Florida’s heavy rain and strong winds.
Aging Shingles
As shingles age, they shed the protective granules that shield them from the weather. This natural wear weakens the material, making it less flexible and prone to curling up at the edges.
Curled shingles are one of the first signs that a roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. Regular inspections help identify these changes early and prevent unexpected roofing failures.
Poor Installation
Improper installation is a common but preventable cause of curled shingles and roof buckling. If shingles are nailed incorrectly, installed over uneven surfaces, or spaced improperly, they may not adhere as intended. Over time, this can cause shingles to lift, warp, or separate from the roof deck.
High Temperatures & Humidity
Central Florida’s repeated heating and cooling cycles cause roofing layers to expand and contract, eventually wearing them down. Humidity can trap moisture beneath the roof surface, which can weaken shingles and the decking below. The stress of intense sun and stormy weather accelerates curling and buckling quicker than in cooler, drier climates.
Signs of Curling Shingles
Detecting curled shingles early can help you avoid expensive roof damage later. A quick inspection after extreme heat or summer storms can tell you a lot about your roof’s condition.
Look for these signs of shingle curling:
Patchy Looking Roof
If your roof appears patchy or uneven from the ground, it could indicate damaged shingles. You may notice some shingles lying flat while others look raised, warped, or misshapen. This uneven look is often one of the first visible signs that shingles are starting to fail.
Patchiness can also cause roof buckling and uneven wear, often caused by sun exposure, poor ventilation, or moisture. While it may seem like a cosmetic issue at first, it can signal deeper problems that need immediate attention.
Edges of Shingles Are Lifting
You may notice shingle edges lifting, often called clawed shingles. This occurs when shingles lose flexibility and begin to pull away from the roof surface. Once the edges lift, wind-driven rain can slip underneath, increasing the risk of leaks. In severe cases, lifted edges can catch the wind during storms and tear off completely.
Flapping Shingles When the Wind Blows
If shingles move or flap during windy conditions, it may indicate curling or buckling. Shingles should remain firmly secured to the roof. Movement suggests that the adhesive seal has failed or that the shingles are no longer lying flat.
Flapping shingles are more vulnerable to wind damage and water intrusion. Once movement begins, the problem often worsens quickly if not addressed.
Cracks on the Surface of the Shingles
Cracking often appears alongside curled shingles, especially if your roof is aging or has been exposed to prolonged UV radiation. As shingles dry out and lose flexibility, small cracks can form on the surface. These cracks allow moisture to seep into the roofing system, accelerating deterioration.
Cracked shingles are less effective at protecting your home and can lead to leaks, mold growth, and interior damage.
Roof Risks if Curling Shingles Are Ignored
Warped, lifted, or curled shingles are often early warning signs of larger roofing problems. Left unrepaired, they can cause long-term damage to your home, including:
- Water intrusion and leaks
Curled or lifted shingles create gaps where rainwater can seep beneath the roof. Water can reach the roof deck and cause leaks that damage ceilings, walls, and insulation. - Mold and mildew growth
Florida’s high humidity makes it easy for mold to grow when moisture gets trapped in attics or wall cavities. Mold can lower indoor air quality and affect the comfort and health of everyone in your home. - Structural damage
Prolonged moisture exposure can weaken roof decking, wood framing, and support structures. What starts as a small shingle issue can eventually require partial or full roof replacement. - Reduced energy efficiency
Damaged shingles and poor ventilation cause heat to build up in the attic, making your HVAC system work harder. This leads to higher energy bills and accelerated wear on cooling equipment.
Addressing shingle damage early helps protect your home, maintain indoor air quality, and avoid costly repairs down the line.
Why Choose Batterbee Roofing for Curling & Buckled Shingles in Central Florida
Batterbee Roofing is here to protect your home from the Florida climate. Our team takes a thorough, honest approach to find the root cause of shingle issues and provide targeted repairs that restore roof integrity.
Whether you need a minor shingle repair or a full roof replacement, our goal is to deliver long-term value and protection for your home. You can expect clear communication, detailed inspections, and expert workmanship at every step.
If you notice signs of curled shingles, schedule a professional roof inspection today. Addressing issues early can prevent extensive damage and extend your roof’s lifespan.
