What missing shingles might be telling you about your roof

By Elite Roofing. 

A few missing shingles aren’t just a problem; they’re a warning sign to take action and protect your home before costly damage sets in. 

Even the toughest of roofs can take a beating from coastal storms, winter snow and years of sun exposure. But when shingles start going missing, things can start to unravel. At Elite Roofing, we’ve seen how a single missing shingle can spiral into a full-blown roof leak, fast. That’s why homeowners turn to us when shingles go missing. We don’t just patch the problem; we pinpoint the cause and stop leaks before they start. If you’ve spotted bare patches on your roof, here’s what you need to know, before rain makes it worse. 

Why do shingles fall off? 

Shingle roofs are popular because they’re affordable, durable and look great on local homes. However, our area’s weather conditions can be tough on roofing: 

• High winds from storms can loosen and rip off shingles. 
• Heavy rain and snow wear down shingles over time. 
• Age and sun exposure can make shingles brittle, causing them to crack or break. 

When even a single shingle goes missing, the protective barrier of your roof is compromised. That means water can find its way in, leading to leaks and interior damage. 

Will a few missing shingles really cause a leak? 

It depends on where the shingles are missing and how your roof was installed. For example: 

• At the edges or ridge cap – Missing shingles here are more likely to let water seep under surrounding shingles. 
• In the middle of the roof – Even a small, exposed spot can let water into the underlayment and decking, eventually causing leaks. 
• Over valleys or near flashing – These are high-water-flow areas. Missing shingles here almost guarantees a leak if not fixed quickly. 

We frequently see leaks start small — like faint ceiling stains — but quickly worsen because of repeated rainfall. A missing shingle left unaddressed can turn into a costly roof repair. 

What to do if you notice missing shingles 

If you notice missing shingles on your roof, here’s what Elite Roofing recommends: 

1 – Don’t wait – Even if you don’t see a leak right away, water may already be seeping into your roof. 

2 – Check your attic – Look for damp insulation, water stains or mold growth. 

3 – Call a local roofing contractor – DIY repairs can cause more harm than good. At Elite Roofing, we provide professional shingle replacement and roof repair. 

Preventing future shingle loss 

Homeowners can extend the life of their shingle roofs with regular maintenance: 

• Annual roof inspections to catch weak or loose shingles. 
• Gutter cleaning so water can properly drain off your roof. 
• High-quality materials like upgraded shingles and lifetime pipe boots. 
• Prompt storm damage repairs after heavy winds or hail. 

Original article source: Elite Roofing