How to Repair Roof Shingles That Have Blown Off

Oct 2, 2018 | Latest, Roof

Wind Damage Roof Repair
After any kind of storm, homeowners should always take a quick look at their roof to ensure that the shingles remain intact and undamaged. If damage is discovered, homeowners should know how to repair roof shingles that have blown off. It is a relatively easy process.

If you notice shingles are missing following a storm, don’t wait.

They need to be replaced, or the roof area covered, to prevent water damage to the supporting roof structure and leaks inside.

»Related Article: Should You Replace or Repair Your Roof?

How to Repair Roof Shingles That Have Blown Off

The easiest way to repair roof shingles that have blown off is to individually replace them or replace a series of them.

The damaged shingles can be removed and new ones can be put into their place. However, these patches may be noticeable, as weather conditions can cause the older shingles to fade in color.

Your tool kit:

The tools you’ll need to gather to repair roof shingles that have blown off include:

  • Pry bar or nail puller, hammer, utility knife
  • Galvanized roofing nails
  • Ladder
  • Matching shingles (one bundle is sufficient for small repairs)

Steps to Replacing a Shingle

Step 1:

Using the pry bar, remove the damaged shingle and old nails that may be still attached to the roof. If the shingle is missing altogether, remove any debris or remaining nails. Generally, there are four nails: two holding the missing shingle and two holding the one above it that penetrate the shingle below it. Remove those temporarily as you slide the new shingle into place. Do not place a new shingle overtop old nails; this can puncture the new shingle.

Step 2:

Slide a new shingle under the one above it, taking care not to damage or displace the existing shingles. You may need to remove the shingle nails of the shingle above it in order to create a secure attachment. Replace the existing shingle and nail into place, and replace the nails in the single above it.
Watch this short video from Ask the Builder to see a first hand demonstration of how to easily replace roof shingles:

How are Roof Shingles Blown Off in the First Place?

There are two methods by which shingles are attached to a roof: roofing nails or adhesive strips.

Roofing nails:

Generally roofing nails have short shanks, sharp points, and wide, flat heads that enable them to penetrate the shingle without tearing it.

Adhesive strips:

Some shingles are made with adhesive strips attached to the bottom which, when attached, creates a strong, waterproof seal to the shingle beneath it.

Reasons a roof shingle may be blown off include:

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Faulty installation.

Nails may be placed too high on the shingle instead of through the nailing strip, allowing the shingle to tear under adverse conditions.
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Roof damage.

If the underlying roof structure is damaged or decaying, the shingles cannot attach securely and can allow moisture or wind to gather underneath them. With decay, the shingle nails can pop out and loosen the shingle.
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Cure time not sufficient.

When adhesive seals are used, they need time to cure in order to operate at their maximum efficiency: about 4-6 weeks, depending on the rain and sun conditions. A newly-placed shingle may not have had sufficient time to set.
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Age.

A typical roof normally lasts between ten and 15 years. As shingles age and endure years of exposure to the elements, they become weaker in material and seals.

»Related: How to Replace Asphalt Shingles

Contact SmartRoof for Roof Repair or Replacement

Every homeowner should know how to repair roof shingles that have blown off as part of their homeowner maintenance checklist.

But if need a free estimate or you’d like us to help you replace your blown-off shingles as the result of storm damage, please give us a call. Our experienced roofers will get the job done in no time.

Contact SmartRoof today!

3 Comments

  1. John Clarke
    John Clarke on September 29, 2022 at 4:17 am

    Ridiculous to say “every homeowner” should know how to do easy replacement of shingle(s). what about steep pitched roofs, two story houses, ladders and safety equipment?

    Reply
  2. New Office Space
    New Office Space on December 12, 2022 at 7:36 am

    ## Comment SPAM Protection: Shield Security marked this comment as “Pending Moderation”. Reason: Human SPAM filter found “/guide-” in “url” ##
    You’ve written it so nicely, and you’ve come up with some great ideas. This is a fantastic post!

    Reply
  3. US Roofer
    US Roofer on April 7, 2023 at 9:21 am

    I really admire your article. You have thoroughly explained the reason behind roof shingles being blown off, and how we can repair a missing shingle on the roof. Okay, but after you repair it, I must say that you should apply an adhesive sealant on the shingle roof. For other roof substrates I recommend an EPDM Liquid Butyl Rubber sealant because with the help of this sealant, the life span of a roof will be extended for 18-20 years. Liquid butyl is a waterproofing course of action which protects the roof in a rainy or stormy weather. Also its elastomeric coating has the capability to fluctuate due to any temperature changes.

    Reply

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