Roof penetration treatment , referred to as "pipe jacks" "pipe boots", and attic ventilation fixtures. Break down of the treatments can be a matter of low quality material used, or failure of the sealant used to keep fixture water tight or damage to the fixture itself by falling objects, foot traffic etc. Plastic components are usually less durable against the elements and can warp, crack, split etc. As long as the shingles are viable, a repair is typically a minor procedure consisting of either re-sealing or replacement.

Damage to roof (non age related) materials can reduce the lifetime of a shingle dramatically. Exposure to unexpected, out of the ordinary conditions can not only shorten the life of the materials but void material and labor warranties.

• Hail depending on the size and severity can be very damaging to shingle surfaces and roof components. Damaging hail results in granule loss, to full penetration of the shingle (holes. Generally hail under 3/4" in diameter will not cause significant damage, unless the material is already in an advanced stage of deterioration (dry, brittle, losing granules etc.)***NOTE: Hail along with other extreme weather related conditions are not typically covered under manufacturer or labor warranties, eg; tornado, hurricane, lightening strikes etc

• Tree limbs lying on the roof surface (dragging and rubbing the shingles when wind driven) loosens the granules which are on the shingle for UV protection causing premature aging. Frequently, limbs will catch the edge of a sealed shingle, lifting it thus breaking the seal or the shingle itself. Leaves left on the roof (especially in low slope valleys) can compost and will damage the shingle in a short period of time.

•Foot traffic can damage the shingles in several ways. Granule loss, scarring, breakage, disrupting seal etc. Shingles are not manufactured to withstand foot traffic activity, extreme care should be taken when one feels it necessary to get on a roof, not only safety concerns, but damage to the roof system. Foot traffic will typically void material and labor warranties. Best advice is to stay off the roof!

•Ice dams are not only troublesome due to causing interior leakage, they can also cause damage to the roofing material. The expansion of intrusive water freezing can cause seals to break, and degrade underlayment, and prematurely wear (age / break down) shingle material. Preventing ice dams from forming is highly recommended.

• Water in excessive and consistent amounts will cause the shingles in it's path to deteriorate rapidly as compared to the unaffected areas. This typically occurs with the use of evaporative coolers, in conjunction with faulty cooler components (float, tubing, overflow seal etc.) Shingles are not intended to withstand constant exposure to water flow.

There are many good manufacturers of good products, but a good manufacturer and a good product does not necessarily guarantee a good roof. The difference is in the applicator that you choose to install your new roof system.