Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in North America—but they aren’t built to last forever, especially in climates like Edmonton’s. Homeowners often expect 25 to 30 years of life from their shingles, only to discover signs of failure in less than 15.

In this article, we’ll explain why that happens, what makes Edmonton particularly hard on shingles, and how GoNano treatment can protect your roof, extend its life, and save you money in the long term.

What Causes Asphalt Shingles to Wear Out?

• UV Radiation – Prolonged sunlight breaks down asphalt compounds, making shingles brittle and dry.
• Thermal Cycling – Heating and cooling causes expansion and contraction, leading to cracking.
• Granule Loss – Granules protect against UV and wear. Once they’re gone, degradation speeds up.
• Oxidization – Air and moisture oxidize asphalt, reducing flexibility.
• Freeze-Thaw Cycles – Water freezes in micro-cracks, expands, and worsens the damage.
• Wind and Hail – High winds lift shingles; hail cracks or bruises them.

The Edmonton Effect: Why Our Climate Is Tough on Roofing

• Long Winters – Extended freeze-thaw cycles stress roofing materials.
• High UV Exposure – Long summer days increase sun damage.
• Rapid Temperature Swings – Fast shifts in spring and fall accelerate fatigue.
• Frequent Hailstorms – Regular hail events damage shingles.
• Dry Air & Intense Sun – Accelerate asphalt drying and brittleness.

Result: many roofs need replacement in 12 to 18 years, not 30. Even expensive luxury shingles marketed as a 50 year shingle often require replacement at 25-30 years in our climate.

How Asphalt Treatment with GoNano Works

GoNano is a nanotechnology-based spray treatment that penetrates and strengthens asphalt at a molecular level. Benefits include:

• Improved UV Resistance – Slows down sun-related damage.
• Reduced Heat Absorption – Minimizes cracking from thermal stress.
• Strengthened Asphalt – Resists brittleness and granule loss.
• Better Water Shedding – Helps prevent leaks and ice dams.
• Improved Hail and Wind Resistance – Enhances durability in storms.
• Slowed Oxidization – Keeps shingles flexible and strong.

GoNano isn’t a surface coating—it chemically improves the material itself.

When Should Asphalt Be Treated?

Timing matters. Here’s when treatment is most effective:

• New Roofs (0–5 years) – Best time. Preserves flexibility and prevents early wear.
• Mid-Life Roofs (5–12 years) – Great time. Extends roof life and delays costly replacement.
• Older Roofs (12+ years) – May still benefit if shingles are intact. Assessment is required.

Earlier treatment is more effective, but even aging roofs can gain extra years with GoNano.

What Does It Cost? Is It Worth It?

Typical costs for a 1,500–2,000 sq. ft. roof in Edmonton:

GoNano costs up to 80% less than a new roof—and delays that big bill for years.

Why Relying on a Warranty Isn’t Enough

• Often pro-rated—you get less coverage as the roof ages.
• Can be voided by installation, ventilation, or maintenance issues.
• Typically offer partial compensation, not full replacement.

Warranties don’t prevent problems—they just provide a fallback after damage occurs. Treatment prevents damage in the first place.

Why Relying on Insurance Is Risky

• Wear-and-tear isn’t covered.
• Claims may be denied if shingles are already brittle.
• Some policies exclude older roofs entirely.
• Claims can raise future premiums.

By keeping your shingles in good condition, GoNano helps you stay covered and avoid expensive surprises.

Final Thoughts

Replacing a roof is one of the most expensive home repairs. And in Edmonton, most roofs wear out far sooner than expected.

GoNano offers a science-backed, cost-effective solution to extend your roof’s life and reduce risk. Whether your roof is new or halfway through its life, treatment can give you peace of mind—and years of protection.

Book a Free Roof Assessment

Not sure if your shingles are in good shape? We offer free inspections to determine if your roof is a good candidate for treatment.

Contact Exceptional Surfaces Edmonton today to schedule your assessment.