We’re sorry to hear of your experience. These shingles have a special thermal sealant that firmly bonds the shingles together after application when exposed to sun and warm temperatures. Shingles installed in fall or winter may not seal until the following spring. If shingles are damaged by winds before sealing or are not exposed to adequate surface temperatures, or if the self-sealant gets dirty, the shingles may never seal. Failure to seal under these circumstances results from the nature of self-sealing shingles, and is not a manufacturing defect. If shingles are to be applied during PROLONGED COLD periods or in areas where airborne dust or sand can be expected before sealing occurs, the shingles MUST be hand sealed. See Nailing Instructions / Hand Sealing available on http://www.gaf.com/Residential_Roofing/Shingles/Royal_Sovereign/Royal_Sovereign_Shingles_English_Size_Shingle_Application_Instructions_English_Spanish.pdf. We would recommend, if you’re interested, contacting our technical hotline to discuss this particular installation. They can be reached at 877-GAF-ROOF (877-0423-7663), Option 5.