Most people assume that a missing shingle or two is simply an aesthetic issue. If you have a shingle or two gone, it’s not a big deal, right? Wrong. Missing shingles are more than just a little unsightly.
Most property owners may not worry about losing a shingle or two, but they should. Consider, for instance, if the one shingle that tore off was above a seam. This could lead to a small roof leak, which could then lead to a much bigger roof leak. Additionally, missing shingles can be an indication of deeper problems that might be plaguing a structure.
Roof shingles are a type of roof covering that consists of individual, overlapping elements. When a few of these pieces are gone, the roof of your home or commercial property becomes unprotected from rain, snow, ice, wind and anything else that comes its way.
To understand why you need to replace missing shingles, let’s take a look at reasons why they go missing in the first place:
One common reason for missing shingles is age. Your roof is the first line of defense for your home or commercial property and can take quite a beating. While your roof itself may last a few decades, that does not mean that every shingle will remain in top-notch condition throughout that lifespan.
Rain. Hail. Snow. Ice. Wind. These are the weather elements that hit your roof hard. Roofing damage after a storm is common and can certainly affect your shingles.
If you’ve recently had a roof replacement, there should not be missing shingles without cause. When you cannot attribute missing shingles to age or weather, then it may be time to consider the installation.
If a contractor mistreated roofing materials, used staples, or cut corners elsewhere, it can cause issues with your roof.
Knowing what causes missing singles is just the first step. The next step is to know when to check your roof for any missing shingles or damage.
It is recommended that you inspect your roof two times per year. You can do self-checks or call in a professional for a more detailed look. We recommend checking your roof in Spring and Fall in order to prepare for the more extreme temperatures of Winter and Summer.
For buildings over 20 years old, missing roof shingles are a sign that an inspection is in order. A typical asphalt roof has a lifespan of 20 to 25 years and is more likely to be subject to replacement if it was installed over another layer.
A property manager should also check the roof after a hurricane or particularly strong storm. If there are missing shingles, the building might be in danger of inundation the next time it rains. Waterlogging in the ceiling can result in wood rot, mold, and damaged drywall, all of which will cost more to repair than having individual shingles or the entire roof replaced.
One way to ensure your roof’s longevity is to replace missing shingles when necessary.
Curled or crumbling shingles are a good sign that the elements have taken their toll on the roof. This might also mean they are past their service life and should be replaced with newer ones. To detect damaged shingles, take a look at the gutter. If there are asphalt particles trapped in your gutters, it is safe to assume that there are some chipped shingles that need to be replaced. Uneven color on parts of the roof might also indicate that the asphalt has eroded.
Walk carefully along the roof. A strong roof board should feel sturdy and steady. A bouncing or sagging sensation might mean that moisture has seeped into the shingles, roof deck, or insulation. A quick look at the attic should also reveal any warped surfaces or gaps through which daylight could pass. Any of these signs reveal that shingle replacement is in order.
While you’re checking the attic, try looking for foreign objects between the roof and the ceiling. If you are unfortunate enough to find any unwelcome guests, it is time to contact a professional roofing contractor.
Hiring a professional is the best way to ensure that the work done to your roof will help improve the energy efficiency of your home. Professional contractors have the experience and knowledge necessary to get the job done right, the first time.
When a business or residential building is in need of roofing, siding, or cladding repair, it is best to call a contractor that specializes in exterior restoration. Advocate Construction has served thousands of satisfied clients over the years. We get the job done efficiently and with no hidden costs. Contact us today or call us at 833-409-ROOF (833-409-7663).