What Is “Tobacco Juicing”? “Tobacco Juicing” is a naturally occurring phenomenon that appears as a brown sticky substance on asphaltic roofs and surrounding areas under specific climatic conditions. This substance is not due to a manufacturing defect or a problem with the asphalt. It typically occurs when a roof is exposed to intense sun combined…
Does Building Code Require That an Attic Be Vented? Building codes, such as the International Residential Code (IRC), provide requirements for both vented and unvented attics. Refer to Chapter 8 – Roof-Ceiling Construction in the IRC for detailed code requirements. GAF’s Recommendations for Attic Ventilation GAF strongly recommends that attics be ventilated, especially in areas…
What Are Dragon Tooth Slivers? Dragon tooth slivers are small, thin, long pieces of shingle that can appear on the ends of laminated asphalt shingles. The term “dragon tooth” refers to the exposed portion of the top layer of laminated shingles. These slivers can vary in size and sometimes become dislodged, but they are a…
What Is Granule Loss? Granule loss refers to the shedding of granules from the surface of asphalt shingles. This is often due to extra granules, known as “riders,” “hitchhikers,” or “sleepers,” added during the manufacturing process to ensure proper embedment into the asphalt coating. The loss of these extra granules is most noticeable immediately after…
What Is Manufacturing Dust on New Shingles? Manufacturing dust, commonly known as “Cutter Dust,” is a fine, dry particulate matter deposited on the surface of new shingles. This dust can cause newly installed shingles to appear dusty, temporarily obscuring their true color. Cutter dust is typically more noticeable on darker-colored shingles. Causes of Cutter Dust…
