Missing Shingles: The Hidden Risk

The Hidden Risks of Missing Shingles

You know the situation… you walk outside and see a shingle or two laying on the ground, perhaps a neighbor let you know they noticed some missing from your home, and you think “Ah, no big deal… I’ll deal with that later…”, and then a few months goes by…

Well, when shingles get blown off your roof, it might seem like a minor issue at first. However, failing to repair and replace them promptly can lead to a host of problems that can compromise the integrity and insurance coverage of your home.

This is a key reason why focusing on repairing a roof quickly, instead of replacing it entirely, is a critical approach to take first. This helps ensure unnecessary costs are not incurred and more serious issues are not created.

Here are a few of the more concerning issues that can arise:

Water Damage

Missing shingles expose the underlying roof structure to the elements. Rainwater can seep into the roof deck, leading to water damage. Over time, this can cause wood rot, mold growth, and damage to the insulation. Water damage can also extend to the interior of your home, affecting ceilings, walls, and even electrical systems.

Increased Energy Costs

Shingles play a crucial role in insulating your home. When they are missing, your home becomes less energy efficient. This means your heating and cooling systems have to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, leading to higher energy bills.

Structural Damage

The roof deck and other structural components of your roof are designed to be protected by shingles. When shingles are missing, these components are exposed to the elements, which can lead to warping, cracking, and other forms of structural damage. This can compromise the overall stability of your roof and home.

Pest Infestations

Gaps in your roof caused by missing shingles can become entry points for pests such as insects, birds, and rodents. These pests can cause further damage to your roof and home, and dealing with infestations can be both costly and time-consuming.

Decreased Property Value

A roof in disrepair can significantly decrease the value of your property. If you’re selling your home, potential buyers are likely to be deterred by the prospect of costly roof repairs, and a damaged roof can negatively impact the overall curb appeal of your home.

Insurance Issues

Many homeowners’ insurance policies require regular maintenance and prompt repairs. Failing to replace blown-off shingles can result in denied claims if further damage occurs. It’s essential to address roof issues promptly to ensure your insurance coverage remains valid.

Conclusion

Ignoring blown-off shingles might save you time and money in the short term, but the long-term consequences can be severe. Regular roof inspections and prompt repairs are crucial to maintaining the integrity of your home and avoiding costly damage. If you notice any missing shingles, it’s best to address the issue as soon as possible to protect your home and investment.

Leak Stoppers offers a full range of services to help deal with missing shingles and other structural issues quickly to ensure your home or building is in optimal operating condition. We carry an inventory of many roofing components to help ensure these kinds of repairs are able to be performed as promptly as possible.

For more information or to schedule a repair or inspection, call the experts at Leak Stoppers today at 631-669-1570 or click here to fill out our online contact form!