Repairing Shingles Blown Off Roof: A Comprehensive Guide to Fixing Wind Damage

When high winds hit, one of the most common types of damage to homes is shingles being blown off the roof. If you’ve noticed missing shingles after a storm, it’s crucial to repair the damage as soon as possible to prevent leaks and further issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through repairing shingles blown off roof due to wind damage, from assessing the damage to making the necessary repairs. Understanding how to properly fix missing shingles can help protect your home from water damage and maintain the integrity of your roof.

Why Do Shingles Blow Off Roofs?

Before we delve into the repair process, it’s important to understand why shingles can blow off in the first place. Shingles are designed to protect your roof by overlapping and creating a watertight seal. However, several factors can contribute to shingles becoming loose and eventually blowing off:

• Age and Wear: Over time, shingles naturally age and lose their flexibility, making them more susceptible to damage. Older shingles can crack, curl, or lose their adhesive properties, making them easier for wind to lift and blow off.
• Improper Installation: Shingles that were not installed correctly are more likely to blow off. This could include issues like improper nailing, insufficient adhesive, or not following manufacturer guidelines for overlapping shingles.
• Extreme Weather Conditions: High winds, especially during severe storms, can create uplift forces that exceed the holding capacity of the shingles, causing them to detach from the roof.
• Roof Design: The design and pitch of your roof can also influence how susceptible it is to wind damage. Roofs with steeper pitches are generally more resistant to wind uplift, while low-slope roofs might be more vulnerable.

Read too: How To Replace Roof Shingles That Blew Off: A Comprehensive Guide

Assessing the Damage: What to Look For

Before you start repairing shingles blown off your roof, you need to assess the extent of the damage. This will help you determine how much work is required and what materials you’ll need.

1. Conduct a Visual Inspection

Start by conducting a visual inspection from the ground or using a ladder if it’s safe to do so. Look for the following signs:

• Missing Shingles: Obvious gaps where shingles have blown off are the most apparent signs of wind damage. These areas are particularly vulnerable to leaks.
• Loose or Damaged Shingles: Even if shingles haven’t completely blown off, they might be loose, cracked, or lifted, which can compromise the roof’s integrity.
• Debris on the Roof: Debris like branches or leaves can indicate that the roof has been subjected to strong winds. Remove any debris to get a clearer view of the roof’s condition.

2. Check for Roof Leaks

After a storm, it’s essential to check for any signs of roof leaks inside your home. Look for water stains on ceilings or walls, especially in areas directly beneath where shingles are missing. If you notice any leaks, these areas should be prioritized during the repair process.

3. Examine the Roof Structure

If the damage is extensive, you might also want to check the roof structure itself. Look for signs of sagging, cracks in the roofing deck, or damage to the underlayment. Structural damage may require more significant repairs or even professional intervention.

How to Repair Shingles Blown Off Roof: Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you’ve assessed the damage, it’s time to start repairing shingles blown off roof. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the tools and materials you’ll need:

• Replacement Shingles: Match the new shingles to your existing ones in color, size, and type.
• Roofing Nails: Use galvanized nails that are resistant to rust and corrosion.
• Hammer: A standard roofing hammer will do the job.
• Roofing Cement or Sealant: This helps secure the shingles and prevent leaks.
• Utility Knife: For cutting shingles to size.
• Pry Bar: To remove damaged shingles and nails.

2. Remove the Damaged Shingles

Start by removing any damaged shingles that are still partially attached to the roof:

• Lift the Shingles Above: Gently lift the shingles directly above the damaged ones to expose the nails. Use a pry bar to carefully remove the nails holding the damaged shingle in place.
• Slide Out the Damaged Shingle: Once the nails are removed, you should be able to slide the damaged shingle out. Be careful not to damage the surrounding shingles.

3. Install the Replacement Shingles

With the damaged shingles removed, you can now install the replacement shingles:

• Cut the Shingle to Size: If necessary, use a utility knife to cut the replacement shingle to the correct size. It should fit snugly in the gap left by the old shingle.
• Position the Shingle: Slide the new shingle into place, making sure it lines up with the existing shingles.
• Nail the Shingle: Secure the shingle with roofing nails. Place the nails about an inch above the shingle tab cutouts, and make sure they penetrate the roof deck for a secure hold.
• Seal the Shingle: Apply roofing cement or sealant under the edges of the new shingle and press it down firmly. This helps to seal the shingle and prevent wind from lifting it in the future.

4. Secure the Surrounding Shingles

After the replacement shingle is in place, you should also check the surrounding shingles to ensure they’re secure:

• Re-Nail Loose Shingles: If any of the surrounding shingles were loosened during the removal of the damaged shingle, re-nail them securely.
• Apply Roofing Cement: Add a small amount of roofing cement under the tabs of the surrounding shingles to keep them firmly in place.

5. Final Inspection and Clean-Up

Once all the repairs are complete, perform a final inspection to ensure everything is properly secured:

• Check for Loose Shingles: Make sure all the shingles are lying flat and are properly nailed down.
• Clean Up Debris: Remove any nails, shingle pieces, or other debris from the roof and surrounding areas.
• Inspect for Leaks: After the repair, it’s a good idea to monitor the interior of your home for a few days to ensure there are no leaks.

Preventing Future Shingle Damage

While repairing shingles blown off your roof is necessary after a storm, there are also steps you can take to prevent similar damage in the future:

1. Regular Roof Inspections

One of the best ways to prevent shingle damage is to conduct regular roof inspections, especially before and after storm season. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as curling shingles, loose nails, or cracked shingles. Address any minor issues before they develop into bigger problems.

2. Reinforce Shingles with Roofing Cement

Applying roofing cement to the edges and corners of shingles can help secure them against wind uplift. This is particularly useful for older roofs where the adhesive may have weakened over time.

3. Trim Overhanging Branches

Trees near your home can pose a risk during high winds, as branches can break off and damage your roof. Regularly trim overhanging branches to reduce the risk of impact damage.

4. Use Wind-Resistant Shingles

If you live in an area prone to high winds, consider upgrading to wind-resistant shingles. These shingles are designed to withstand stronger winds and are typically rated for wind speeds of 110 mph or higher.

When to Call a Professional

While repairing a few blown-off shingles is a manageable DIY project for many homeowners, there are times when it’s best to call a professional:

• Extensive Damage: If a large portion of your roof is damaged, or if there are multiple areas with missing shingles, it’s safer and more effective to have a professional roofer handle the repairs.
• Roof Leaks: If you discover leaks in your home after a storm, this could indicate more significant damage than just missing shingles. A professional can assess the situation and make the necessary repairs to prevent further water damage.
• Structural Damage: If the roof deck or underlying structure is damaged, it’s crucial to have a professional evaluate and repair the roof to ensure it’s safe and stable.

Conclusion

Repairing shingles blown off roof is an essential task for maintaining the integrity of your home. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively repair wind-damaged shingles and prevent further issues like leaks or structural damage. Regular inspections, preventative measures, and timely repairs can help keep your roof in good condition and protect your home from the elements. However, if the damage is extensive or if you’re unsure about any part of the repair process, don’t hesitate to call in a professional roofer to ensure the job is done correctly.