Whether you’ve recently purchased your first home or you’re a seasoned homeowner, at some point, you’ll need to look at the condition of your roof.
You’ll also want to make sure you understand the requirements of your homeowner’s insurance policy. Most policies restrict the types of roof claims they’ll pay out to those caused by natural disasters.
A common issue you may find when you inspect your roof is a few missing shingles.
You may feel tempted to shrug your shoulders and go on with your day, but issues with roof shingles are not something to avoid. Read on to learn about the risks of missing shingles and what you can do to prevent a costly roof repair.
The Role Your Shingles Play
Most people tend to ignore what they can’t see. For example, unless you wake up one morning to no hot water, you overlook the water heater because it’s tucked away in a utility closet or the basement.
Shingles are different.
You can see them when you pull into your driveway or spend time in the backyard. That can be deceiving because while you may see them, you don’t always see damaged or missing shingles.
Consider the shingles on your roof as the primary defense for your home’s structure. Shingles protect the roof, protecting your home from suffering most weather-related damage. Shingles bear the brunt of hail, wind, and the sun beating down on your house.
They silently protect until one goes missing.
Risks of Missing Shingles
Shingles also protect your home from water damage.
With all the shingles lined up correctly, rainwater rolls down the roof and into the gutter system and then toward the grass or the street. So, in this case, shingles act as a protective barrier that prevents rainwater from seeping into your home.
Even one missing shingle can break the barrier.
A sole missing shingle might not cause a massive amount of water to come pouring through your ceiling. Instead, water may slowly seep into the roofing materials underneath the shingle. Over time, those materials, including the wood structure of your home, get saturated with water.
Then, you’re at risk for wood rot and roof leaks.
Once you notice multiple missing shingles, you may start seeing higher energy bills, unexplained evidence of moisture in your home, and a decrease in property value.
Watch Out for Broken Shingles Too
It’s not just missing shingles that cause problems. The overall condition of your shingles should be something on your radar. While shingles can last 30-50 years, they’re not immune to damage.
Take note of shingles that are:
- Cracked
- Curling
- Buckled
Broken shingles, if ignored, can result in costly roof repairs.
Addressing missing and broken shingles before they cause problems is one of the benefits of roof maintenance. Most roof maintenance contractors suggest, at minimum, a yearly inspection. Inspections prevent costly damage and repairs.
Want More Home Maintenance Tips and Tricks?
Taking care of your roof by noting and then addressing missing shingles helps you keep your home safe and well-maintained.
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