Have you ever stepped outside and noticed a patch on your roof where the shingles seem to be playing hide-and-seek? You’re not alone! What you’re looking at is missing roof shingles and it’s a pretty common concern for homeowners. But, is it only a minor issue or just the tip of the iceberg? The answer depends. 

At best, your house looks a bit neglected but there’s nothing else to worry about. And at worst, the missing shingles can cause major damage to your home which may even necessitate a complete roof replacement. So, what should you do?

In this blog, we’ll talk about the role shingles play in roofing, how to identify missing shingles, why they go missing, and what to do if you notice that a few are AWOL.

What are roof shingles?

Now, you’re probably thinking – what’s the big deal if a few shingles are missing? Before we dive into anything else, it’s important to understand what roof shingles are and why they matter.

Roof shingles are the protective outer layers of your roofing that shield your home from the elements and provide both water resistance and insulation. They’re available in various materials – including asphalt, wood, metal, and slate – and come in different styles and colors that can transform your roof from functional to fabulous.

Most shingles are of the three-tab design, so there is a one-in-three possibility that the missing shingle is positioned directly over an open seam in the roof. If that’s the case, leakage can develop fairly soon and cause damage to your roof structure. 

And, while there are ways to initially resist moisture and delay water damage – such as felt paper beneath the missing shingle or synthetic and rubberized asphalt roof underlayment – it still needs urgent repair. Even if the shingle isn’t over an open seam, it may still have been covering nails in the roof and exposed nails cause leakage over time.

On the other hand, if the missing shingle is not situated above a seam, your roof may not start leaking right away. However, the exposed asphalt is prone to deterioration from sunlight and weather conditions, which will still eventually lead to leakage.

How to Identify Missing Shingles

The first step in addressing missing shingles is to identify them. Here are some ways to do that:

• Visual inspection: Walk around your property and visually inspect your roof, looking for areas where the shingles seem to be damaged, dislodged, or missing altogether.
• Checking gutters and downspouts: If you notice granules in your gutters or downspouts, it could be a sign that your shingles are deteriorating, which may lead to missing or broken shingles over time.
• Interior signs: Leaks or water stains on your ceiling can indicate missing or damaged shingles that are allowing water to seep into your home.

Why do shingles go missing?

When you have missing shingles on your roof, it’s usually due to one or more of the following reasons:

• Weather damage: Wind, rain, hail, and even snow can all wreak havoc on your roof. High winds can lift shingles up (especially if they’re not secured properly) and rip them off entirely.
• Age: Like all materials, shingles age over time. They can become brittle and might break off during a storm or even due to normal wear and tear.
• Poor installation: Sometimes shingles might be improperly installed, making them more susceptible to coming loose.
• Neglect: Regular maintenance can prevent issues but failing to inspect or maintain your roof regularly may lead to missing shingles that are not addressed promptly, ultimately causing much bigger issues.
• Pest infestation: Unwanted critters, like rodents or birds, may create nests underneath roof shingles, dislodging them in the process.

The Risks of Missing Shingles

Here are some reasons to tackle missing shingles on your roof sooner rather than later:

• Water damage: We’ve already touched upon how missing shingles can lead to water infiltration through open seams and exposed asphalt and nails in the roof, resulting in leaks and permanent damage to your home’s structure. This could ultimately lead to costly repairs.
• Energy efficiency: Having a compromised roof may affect your home’s insulation, leading to higher heating and cooling costs.
• Decreased property value: Whether you’re planning to sell soon or holding onto your home for the long haul, missing shingles can negatively impact your property’s overall value and curb appeal.
• Mold and mildew growth: A leaky roof creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive. Not only is this a health risk, but mold remediation can be a significant expense as well.

What to Do When You Notice Missing Shingles

So, you’ve spotted those pesky missing shingles and you know why it’s important to replace them as soon as possible. But how do you go about it? Well, here’s a step-by-step guide:

Assess the Damage

Before running for the toolbox, take a moment to inspect the roof from a safe distance – using binoculars can help! Look for:

• Missing or dislodged shingles and their general condition
• Signs of water damage, like discoloration on the ceiling
• Other compromised areas, like cracked or curled shingles

Take photos and notes of the damage. This documentation can be valuable if you decide to call in a professional or file an insurance claim. Make sure to capture close-ups of the damaged areas and wider shots that put the damage in context.

Tip: It’s always best to check your roof after severe weather. You should schedule an inspection seasonally – especially before winter and hurricane season!

Determine the Cause

Understanding the underlying cause of the missing shingles can help prevent future issues. For instance, if it’s due to extreme weather, consider installing storm-resistant shingles next time. If age is the factor, it might be time for a full roof replacement.

DIY Repairs

If the damage is minor, and you feel comfortable on a ladder, you may opt for a DIY fix. You’ll need:

• Replacement shingles (make sure they match!)
• A hammer
• Roofing nails
• A pry bar
• Roofing cement
• Safety gear (ladder, gloves, and a safety harness if necessary)

Steps to Replace Missing Shingles

1. Safety first: Ensure you have a sturdy ladder and someone to assist you, especially if you’re not experienced.
2. Remove damaged shingles: Use the pry bar to lift the missing shingles and remove any nails holding them in place.
3. Place replacement shingles: Slide the new shingle into the gap, making sure it’s aligned with the existing shingles.
4. Secure it: Nail down the new shingle, covering the nail heads with roofing cement for added protection against water.
5. Seal additional vulnerable areas: After reassembling the shingles, consider sealing the edges with roofing cement for peace of mind.

Tip: Don’t mess with roof repairs during bad weather or when it’s too hot! Safety and well-being always comes first.

Call in the Pros

If your roof is over 15 years old, or the damage is extensive, hiring a professional might be the best route. They’ll have access to better materials, tools, and expertise to handle repairs efficiently. And if you’re in NJ in the Egg Harbor Township or Bellmawr areas, schedule a free roofing estimate with us to check the extent of your roof damage!

Consider Roof Maintenance

Once the crisis passes, it’s time to think long-term. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your roof and help prevent future issues. Here are some practical tips for maintaining your roof:

• Annual inspections: Regularly inspect your roof yourself and schedule a professional check-up once a year to catch any potential problems before they escalate.
• Clean gutters regularly: Clogged gutters can lead to water backup and damage your roof. Aim to clean them out at least twice a year.
• Trim trees: Overhanging tree branches can cause damage and even encourage pests. Keep branches trimmed and away from the roof.
• Remove debris promptly: Keep an eye out for debris, such as leaves or branches, and remove them to prevent water pooling.
• Invest in quality materials: If you’re re-roofing, consider investing in high-quality, durable materials that can withstand the elements in your area.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!

Missing shingles might seem like a small issue but, as you’ve learned, can lead to significant consequences if left unaddressed. Whether you’re tackling the roofing repairs yourself or hiring a professional roofer, acting promptly can save you time, money, and stress down the line. 

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense and it deserves the best care possible. So stay proactive and keep an eye on those shingles because a little maintenance can go a long way in ensuring your home remains safe, sound, and stylish for years to come.

And if you’re unsure about how to do it yourself or have issues that you can not DIY, call in the experts at Surf & Turf and let us handle all your roofing needs!