In the context of asphalt shingles, the terms "split" and "crack" refer to the structural integrity and condition of the shingles. Both a split and a crack extend through the shingle's material, indicating a failure that can compromise its waterproofing capabilities and overall performance.
A "split" typically refers to a separation of the shingle material that can occur due to various factors, including improper installation, age, or extreme weather conditions. When a shingle splits, it physically divides the shingle into separate pieces, allowing water potentially to penetrate beneath the shingle layers.
A "crack" also signifies a break in the shingle, often resulting from similar causes. Like a split, a crack can lead to leaks and further damage if not addressed. Hence, both conditions involve damage that penetrates through the shingle material itself, making them serious issues that should be monitored and repaired as needed.
In this context, the nuanced understanding of how these defects behave and their potential implications for roofing integrity supports the correctness of identifying that both splits and cracks traverse through the shingle.