Missing Shingles: Why One Missing Shingle Shouldn’t Be Ignored
A missing shingle might not seem like a major roofing problem, especially if the rest of your roof looks fine. But in northeastern Pennsylvania, where roofs face heavy rain, snow, ice, wind, and changing temperatures, even one missing shingle can leave your home vulnerable to water damage.
If you notice missing shingles on your roof, it is a good idea to have the area inspected sooner rather than later.
What Causes Shingles to Go Missing?
Shingles can become loose or completely detach for several reasons. Strong winds are one of the most common causes. Severe thunderstorms and high winds can lift shingle edges and eventually pull shingles away from the roof.
Age can also play a role. As asphalt shingles get older, they can become brittle and lose some of their ability to remain securely attached. Repeated freezing and thawing during NEPA winters can add additional stress.
Poor installation, damaged shingles, and previous roof repairs can also contribute to shingles becoming loose or missing.
Why Is a Missing Shingle a Problem?
A shingle roof is designed as a layered system. Each shingle helps shed water toward the gutters and protects the roofing materials underneath.
When a shingle is missing, the underlayment and other roofing components can become more exposed to the elements. Water may work its way underneath surrounding shingles and eventually reach the roof decking.
The problem may not be visible inside your home immediately. Roof leaks can sometimes develop slowly, allowing moisture to accumulate before you notice a ceiling stain or other obvious sign of water damage.
That is why replacing a missing shingle promptly can potentially prevent a much larger repair.
Can a Missing Shingle Be Replaced?
In many cases, yes. If the surrounding shingles and underlying roofing materials are still in good condition, a roofing contractor may be able to replace the missing shingle and secure the surrounding area.
However, it is important to look beyond the missing shingle itself. A professional inspection can determine whether additional shingles are loose, whether the roof has wind damage, and whether there is any moisture or decking damage underneath.
If numerous shingles are missing or the roof is nearing the end of its useful life, a larger repair or roof replacement may make more sense.
Missing Shingles in NEPA? Get Them Checked
Whether you live in Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, Hazleton, Bloomsburg, or another northeastern Pennsylvania community, don’t ignore missing shingles. A small opening in your roofing system can become a bigger problem when the next storm arrives.
The Roof Repair Guys provide professional shingle roof repairs throughout NEPA. We tackle roofing jobs of all sizes and can help determine whether your roof needs a simple shingle replacement or more extensive repairs.
For a complimentary consultation, call The Roof Repair Guys at (570) 332-1223 or email office@theroofrepairguys.com.