What Happens if You Don’t Replace Missing Shingles on Long Island?
Failing to replace missing shingles leaves your roof exposed to the elements and can increase the risk of a roof leak or major failure like a complete tear-off.
Learn why it’s crucial to replace missing shingles and book a dependable roof repair service with the best roofing contractor on Long Island.
Why Do Roofing Shingles Fall Off?
Roofing shingles may fall or tear off if they are improperly installed, beyond their replacement age, or if the roof is damaged. Shingles can also tear off in a severe storm, even if they are well-maintained.
- Roof Age: An older roof is more likely to shed shingles. Most shingle roofing systems will last around 20 years. Problems are more likely to occur after the first 15 years of ownership, especially as sealant strips start to harden and lose their grip.
- Improper Installation: Poor installation methods and low-quality materials increase the risk of shingles falling off. Always choose a locally licensed roofing contractor. Out-of-town contractors, also known as fly-by-night contractors, are less likely to follow local building standards. Specifically, many out-of-town contractors don’t understand Long Island’s wind zone requirements, which are stricter than those in inland areas.
- Severe Weather: High-quality shingles have excellent wind shear resistance, but severe weather events can still pull shingles from your rooftop. It’s important to visually inspect your roof from the yard or roadside after any severe weather event. You can call a licensed roofer for a detailed inspection if you suspect damage.
- Lack of Maintenance: Your roof is your home’s most vital exterior surface. It protects the entire structure from wind, rain, snow, and environmental damage. Regular roofing inspections and maintenance can make your roof last longer. Most homes on Long Island need at least a yearly roofing inspection in the fall. If your roof is older, an inspection before and after winter will help to mitigate any damage caused by the freeze-thaw cycle.
- Low-Quality Materials: The quality of the shingles and other installation materials also affects shingle stability. When you repair or replace your roof, insist on high-quality shingles designed to withstand extreme climate conditions and high wind loads. At Renew Roofing Solutions, we install industry-leading Owens Corning® shingles that resist the harsh weather and strong winds in Suffolk and Nassau County.
The Risks of Missing Shingles on Your Long Island Roof
Missing shingles aren’t just an aesthetic eyesore. They can compromise the entire roofing system.
- Even a single missing shingle can reduce the stability of your roof. Every shingle overlaps in a complete system. A missing shingle makes it more likely that surrounding shingles will loosen in normal wind conditions. The effect is cascading. The more shingles that come off, the more likely it is that you will experience a large sectional tear-off or complete roofing failure.
- In winter, missing shingles allow water to seep under the edges of nearby shingles. It freezes, expands, and creates an ice dam and pooling water that rots the roof.
- Shingles protect the roof deck from water. Missing shingles are a major cause of roof leaks.
- Prolonged water infiltration increases the risk of mold, mildew, and structural damage. Even a minor leak can cause severe damage as moisture penetrates the plywood deck, rafters, and supports.
- You could lose your insurance coverage if you ignore missing shingles. Homeowners insurance typically covers roof damage caused by storms and impacts, but most policies are void if the roof is poorly maintained.
Is Your Roof Missing Shingles? Get Effective Roof Repairs in Nassau or Suffolk County
Whether you’re missing one or several shingles, you can repair your roof and protect your home with Renew Roofing Solutions. Our expert Suffolk and Nassau County roofing contractors are available for detailed inspections and leak detection. We will plan repairs that are cost-efficient and designed to last.
Don’t risk your home. Book roof repairs by calling us at 516-212-0307 or 914-415-7702 today.