How to Handle Lost Roof Shingles Before It’s Too Late?

Finding shingles missing from your roof as a homeowner can be quite alarming and it’s definitely not something to ignore. While delaying repairs might seem like an option, especially if you’re on a budget, neglecting the issue can lead to serious damage, including leaks, structural problems and much more. But acting quickly can save you from dealing with serious damage and making expensive repairs down the line. 

To help you understand better, this blog post will explain why you must take action as soon as you notice shingles missing from your roof. 

Why Does Quick Action Matter Once You Notice Lost Shingles On Your Roof​?

Fixing missing shingles quickly is important because it will otherwise cause serious damage and structural problems that can have a negative effect on the structural integrity of your home. When shingles are missing, water can seep in, leading to leaks that weaken your roof, possibly resulting in expensive repairs or even a full replacement. Taking action right away also helps protect the surrounding shingles and keeps your home safe, sturdy, and well-maintained.

Signs That Your Roof Is Missing Shingles

To spot issues early, let’s go over the key signs that your roof has missing shingles:

1. Bare Spots or Shingles On The Ground

The most obvious signs that your roof is missing shingles involve finding bare spots on your roof where the shingles have torn away. You might also find them scattered around your lawn. These open areas that are left behind allow moisture to seep in, leading to leaks and further deterioration.

2. Water Stains 

Dark spots or stains on your ceiling and walls often indicate roof leaks. If water is making its way inside, missing shingles are likely the culprit.

3. Sagging Roofline

A sagging or uneven roofline can signal serious structural issues, often caused by water damage or a weak support system. In many cases, when shingles go missing, it allows water to seep in through the bare areas, creating extensive damage over time to the wooden support system of the roof. 

Steps to Take When You Notice Missing Shingles

If you find missing shingles, there are steps you should take immediately to create a temporary fix, along with permanent repairs that will help reinforce the structure of your roof.

Temporary Solutions

1. Protect The Exposed Area

Missing shingles leave your roof vulnerable to leaks, mold growth, and structural damage. Cover the exposed area with a tarp or waterproof material to prevent further issues until permanent shingle repair is complete.

2. Check For Additional Damage

Inspect your roof for other signs of wear, like loose, curling, or missing granules. A ground-level check with binoculars can help, but a professional inspection is best for a thorough assessment. Also check your attic for water stains or moisture buildup caused by shingles missing from the roof.

3. Secure Any Loose Shingles

If you have experience with fixing roof shingles, use roofing cement to hold down loose shingles and prevent wind damage. Avoid using nails for a temporary fix, as they can create new holes for new leaks to develop.

4. Monitor The Weather

Before attempting any shingle replacement, check the forecast. Aim for a day with clear weather to avoid complications, and if a storm is approaching, take extra precautions or postpone professional inspections for safety.

Permanent Solutions

1. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

A certified roofer can assess the extent of the damage, provide repair estimates, and suggest preventive measures to protect your roof from future missing shingles. 

2. Check for Underlying Structural Damage

Examine the area beneath the missing roof shingles for any damage to the roof deck or underlayment. If significant issues are found, these parts of the roof may need to be replaced. 

3. Replace Missing Shingles Promptly

Once the area is secure, replace the missing shingles as soon as possible. Choose shingles that match your roof’s current color and style for a seamless shingle replacement. If you don’t know how to replace shingles, hire a professional for proper placement.

4. Repair or Replace the Underlayment

If the underlayment is damaged, replacing it before installing new shingles is crucial. This extra layer helps prevent leaks and extends your roof’s lifespan.

5. Apply a Roof Sealant for Extra Protection

After replacing missing roof shingles, consider applying a roof coating or sealant to enhance waterproofing and strengthen your roof against future weather damage.

Proactive Roof Care

1. Establish a Regular Maintenance Routine

Prevent future issues by scheduling routine inspections, cleaning gutters, and addressing small repairs before they escalate. Consistent maintenance helps extend the life of your roof and reduces the risk of shingles missing from the roof again.

2. Keep Records of Repairs

Document all roofing shingle repair work for warranty claims and future reference. This can also be helpful if you decide to sell your home.

3. Check Your Insurance Coverage

If the damage resulted from a storm or another covered event, contact your insurance provider to see if they will cover the cost of fixing roof shingles.

What’s The Cause of Missing Shingles?

Knowing why shingles go missing can help prevent future problems, so let’s break it down:

1. Harsh Weather Conditions

• Strong Winds: High winds can lift and tear shingles, especially if they’re weak or not installed properly. Severe storms can even rip them off entirely, leaving your roof exposed.
• Heavy Rain, Hail, or Snow: Over time, constant exposure to bad weather can wear down shingles. Hail can crack them, while heavy snow adds stress that may cause them to loosen.
• Sun Damage: Constant sunlight makes shingles brittle, making them more likely to crack and break, especially in areas with high amounts of UV exposure.

2. Aging Roof

As a roof gets older, its materials start to wear out. The adhesive that holds shingles in place may dry up, and the shingles themselves become weaker, making them more likely to blow off.

3. Poor Installation

• Misplaced Nails: If shingles aren’t nailed down properly, they won’t stay secure and can easily become lifted by wind.
• Seal Strip Issues: Shingles have adhesive strips that need time and warmth to activate. If it’s installed in cold weather, the seal might not set properly, leaving shingles vulnerable to strong gusts.

4. Moisture Damage

Too much moisture can weaken the wooden structure of a roof. If water seeps under the shingles, it can cause rot, making it easier for shingles to come loose over time.

5. Structural Problems

Issues with roof decking or poorly installed flashing around chimneys and vents can increase the chances of shingle loss. If one part of the roof wasn’t installed correctly, other areas might also be at risk.

6. External Damage

Falling branches, hail, or other impacts can crack or loosen shingles. Check your roof after storms in order to catch problems early before they get worse.

Preventive Measures for the Future

To keep your roof strong, here are some simple steps to prevent shingle loss:

1. Get Regular Roof Inspections

Have a roofer check your roof once a year. They can spot weak areas and fix damaged shingles before they fall off.

2. Keep Gutters Clean

Clogged gutters trap water, which can weaken shingles. Clean them regularly to help water drain properly.

3. Use Durable Shingles

When replacing shingles, choose strong, wind-resistant replacements like architectural shingles or composite shingles, for better protection.

4. Fix Loose Shingles

If shingles start to curl or lift, secure them quickly to prevent further damage.

5. Ensure Good Ventilation

Proper attic airflow prevents heat and moisture buildup, which can weaken shingles.

6. Inspect After Storms

After bad weather, look for missing or damaged shingles and get them repaired in the area as soon as possible.

Get Reliable Roof Replacement Services From B & A Roofing and Gutters

Worried about lost shingles on your roof? B&A Roofing and Gutters has you covered. We specialize in quality roof replacements, using high-quality materials and expert workmanship to keep your home safe from the elements. Contact us today at (601) 520-3183 – we’ll handle your roofing needs with care!