Replacing Missing Shingles on Your Roof

Replacing Missing Shingles on Your Roof

Asphalt shingle roofs are fairly durable, and with the right conditions, your roof can last for 15 years or even longer. However, it’s not uncommon for roofs to shed a few shingles now and then.

Missing shingles are a problem because they compromise your roof’s integrity. Water can penetrate the roof, seep into your attic, destroy furniture and carpeting, and even cause mold to grow.

If your roof has lost a few shingles, it’s possible to replace them yourself. If you want to be on the safe side, it’s best to leave roof repairs to the local professionals like Sundown Exteriors of Bloomington, IL.

Why Do Shingles Fall Off Roofs?

Shingles fall off roofs for quite a few reasons, one of which is the roof’s age. Over time, the seal that holds shingles together starts to wear down. When it fails, shingles loosen and eventually blow off the roof.

If your roof is over 30 years old and missing a lot of shingles, you’re better off replacing the entire thing. That’s because even if you replace a few shingles now, it won’t be long before your roof loses even more.

Roof replacement is not an ideal job for the average homeowner. If you think you might need a new roof, call Sundown Exteriors for an inspection.

It may surprise you to know that shingles can fall off new roofs, too. This can happen for one of two reasons: inactive seal strips or improper installation.

Seal strips can fail if contractors install your roof when temperatures are too low. A slight gust of wind or water damage is all it takes to send improperly sealed shingles flying.

Some roofers may not nail shingles down properly, which means they will likely fall off. This is a common problem when working with an inexperienced roofing company.

If your new roof is shedding shingles, a good roofing company should replace them at no cost to you.

Do Missing Shingles Mean That You Need a New Roof?

Many homeowners fear having to replace the whole roof if it’s missing shingles. While that may be true sometimes, it’s not always the case.

The best way to know whether you need to replace your roof is to perform an inspection. To do so, climb a ladder and check the flashing’s caulking for leaks and holes. If you spot holes in the roof, it’s time for a replacement. Such severely damaged roofs aren’t long for this world.

You should also look at the roof from below. If you spot tar beneath the roof, this is a sign that water is getting inside your home from a roof leak, which means you’ll likely need to replace the whole roof.

How To Replace Missing Shingles

If your roof is only missing a shingle or two, replacing them is fairly simple. Here’s how to handle the task like a pro.

  1. Check the weather report before you begin. It may seem obvious, but don’t plan to replace shingles if you see rain in the forecast. Neither should you replace shingles if it’s below 40 degrees outside. Shingle seals fail in cold weather, as mentioned above.
  2. Gather your replacement shingles, as well as a flat bar, roofing nails, and roofing cement.
  3. Use the flat bar to remove any damaged shingles. If you find shingles that are a bit loose, pry them up and spread a layer of roofing cement underneath them.
  4. Remove the nails below the damaged shingles with your flat bar, then simply slide out the old shingles.
  5. Nail the new shingles down using waterproof roofing nails. Use at least four nails per shingle.
  6. Apply sealant around each nail, then apply glue to the bottom of each shingle and press down.

Contact Sundown Exteriors for Roof Repair Today

If your roof is missing shingles and you’d rather not handle replacement yourself, call the pros at Sundown Exteriors! Our professional roofing company proudly serves homeowners throughout Bloomington, Lincoln, Peoria and Pontiac, IL.

To schedule your shingle roof repair or replacement, call us at (309) 275-6801.