Why Are Roof Shingles Coming Off and How to Fix It Fast
- Cheridan Hojas
- Jan 9
- 6 min read
A roof should be the last thing you worry about. But roof shingles coming off can change that fast. One day the roof looks perfectly fine, the next you notice bare spots, stray shingles in the yard or a small leak after rain.
Many homeowners consider calling roofing services only when the problem gets bigger, but catching it early saves you more time, damage and money later.
The good news is that missing shingles do not have to turn into a major leak or costly damage. With the right steps and a clear understanding of what causes shingles to fail, you can fix the problem quickly and prevent it from happening again.
This guide will walk you through why shingles come off, how to repair them and when to call experienced roofers for a long lasting solution.
Why Roof Shingles Come Off and What Causes It
Shingles do not fall off without a reason. Something triggered it, and the sooner you understand what caused the problem, the faster you can stop leaks and prevent more damage to your home.
This sets the foundation for smart decisions whether it’s a small repair or a complete asphalt shingle repair handled by pros.
Let’s break down the most common causes and what they mean for you as a homeowner so you know when a simple fix is enough and when it is time to call for help.
1. Wind and Storm Damage
Strong winds can break the seal under shingles, causing them to lift and pull away. Even gusts around 60 to 70 mph can remove shingles from a roof, especially the edges.
After heavy storms, many homeowners find loose shingles scattered in the yard. This type of damage often starts small but gets worse if ignored.
2. Aging Roof Materials
Every roof ages. Asphalt shingles dry out and become brittle over time due to natural wear and tear from constant sun exposure. Over time they lose flexibility and the granules that protect them wash away.
Once shingles lose that grit coating they crack easier and no longer grip tightly to the roof surface. If your roof is 15 to 20 years old, shingle loss becomes more common.
3. Poor Installation or Incorrect Nailing
We see this more often than homeowners realize. When shingles are not fastened properly, nails are placed too high or too few are used, wind has an easy way to lift them.
Installation quality matters just as much as the shingle brand. A beautiful new roofs can still fail early if it was installed wrong, especially when wind, heat and time start pulling at weak points.
4. Low Quality or Old Materials
Not all shingles are made equal. Lower grade shingles wear out faster and fail under strong weather conditions.
Cheaper materials also lose adhesion strength sooner, making lifted or blown off shingles more likely in storms. Investing in better materials upfront saves more money long term.
5. Lack of Maintenance
Blocked gutters, moss growth and debris buildup hold moisture on the roof. Over time this weakens shingles and creates curling or lifting.
Trimming overhanging branches and cleaning gutters is more important than most people realize. A clean roof is a healthy roof.
If you notice any of these signs at home, don’t wait for things to get worse. A quick inspection today can save you from costly repairs later. Reach out to Hidalgo Brothers
Roofing and our team will help you assess the damage and decide the best next step for your roof.
Signs Your Roof Is at Risk
Trouble often starts quietly long before shingles fall off. Small issues build up slowly until one day a storm hits and the damage becomes obvious. Knowing what to watch for can help you detect early warning signals, even subtle signs of a leaking roof.
Look for:
Curling or cracked shingles
Dark patches or uneven roof patterns
Granules collecting in gutters
Missing corners or lifted edges
Water stains on ceilings
Light leaks in the attic after rain
A quick ground check after storms helps catch problems early. Use binoculars for a closer look, but avoid climbing the roof unless you are trained. Your safety matters more than anything.
If you spot any of these signs, it’s a smart move to schedule a roof inspection so issues can be fixed fast. Message us and we’ll take a look before it turns into a bigger problem.
What To Do Immediately When Shingles Come Off
The moment you notice missing shingles, take quick action. Water intrusion is the real threat because even a small opening can lead to leaks, mold and costly repairs.
A temporary roof leak fix can help control damage while waiting for repair.
Cover exposed areas with a tarp to prevent rain from entering.
Take photos of the roof for insurance or warranty documentation.
Check inside the attic for water stains or damp insulation.
Call for a professional inspection if damage is more than a few shingles.
Temporary fixes are only a short term bandage. To prevent repeat damage and ensure the problem is truly solved, it helps to bring in experts who know what to look for.
Hidalgo Brothers Roofing can inspect the roof, repair the missing shingles properly and make sure water stays out for good.
How To Fix Loose or Missing Shingles
Some minor roof issues can be patched temporarily, and a few homeowners try fixing small areas themselves. It might work if the damage is limited to one or two shingles, the weather is dry and safety is taken seriously.
But shingles are a key layer of protection for your home, and one small mistake can lead to leaks later. That’s why many homeowners still prefer having trusted roofers handle it correctly the first time.
If you plan to do a quick temporary fix, here is how the process usually goes:
DIY Repair Steps (for very small, safe sections only)
Gently lift surrounding shingles with a flat pry tool.
Remove the damaged shingle and old nails.
Slide a replacement shingle into position.
Nail according to manufacturer placement guidelines.
Seal nail heads with roofing cement to prevent water entry.
Attention to detail matters. Even a tiny gap in sealing allows wind or rain to slip in, which is why DIY should only be a short-term approach.
For proper repairs that last through storms and prevent future shingle loss, Hidalgo Brothers Roofing can handle the job safely, correctly and with quality materials built to last.
Roof Shingles Coming Off: When You Should Call a Professional
There comes a point when quick fixes no longer feel safe or enough. When shingles keep coming off or storms expose the same weak spots every year, it’s a sign the roof needs more than a patch.
Many homeowners also ask about roof leak repair costs, and the truth is fixing issues early is far more affordable than repairing structural damage later.
DIY might handle a small section, but these situations call for a professional inspection and repair immediately:
More than 5 to 10 shingles are missing
Damage repeats after storms
Shingles are brittle or crumbling
The roof is nearing end of lifespan
Water is already leaking inside
A professional roofer does more than replace shingles. They assess the entire system, including underlayment, ventilation and structure. This prevents chronic damage instead of just covering symptoms.
Ready To Stop Missing Shingles Before They Become a Bigger Problem?
Roof problems never wait for a convenient time. One missing shingle today can become a leak tomorrow, and the cost of ignoring it is always higher than fixing it early. The good news is you do not have to figure this out alone.
With the right team on your side, you can stop worrying about water damage, storm season or surprise repairs and get back to feeling confident in your home.
If you are seeing lifted shingles, bare patches or signs of wear, now is the perfect time to take action while the issue is still small.
Our team at Hidalgo Brothers Roofing handles shingle repairs, inspections and full replacements with long lasting workmanship homeowners trust. We treat every roof like our own and make sure you get a solution that lasts.
Book a roof inspection today and let us protect your home before the next storm does. Your roof protects everything beneath it. We will make sure it stays that way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for roof shingles to come off during storms?
Yes, a few shingles can come off during strong storms, especially on older roofs. But if shingles keep blowing off, it usually means the roof is worn out, installed poorly, or has deeper problems that should be checked by a professional.
Can I replace just one or two missing shingles?
Sometimes you can. If only one or two shingles are missing and the rest of the roof is in good shape, a small repair may help. But if the shingles are not sealed properly or damage is hidden underneath, leaks can still happen later.
Is a missing shingle considered an emergency?
It can be. One missing shingle lets water get inside the roof. If rain is coming or you see water stains on the ceiling, the repair should be done as soon as possible to prevent more damage.
How long can I wait before fixing missing shingles?
Waiting is risky. Water can enter the roof and cause leaks, mold, or wood damage. A small problem can turn into a costly repair if it is not fixed quickly.
How do I know if my roof needs more than a repair?
If shingles are cracking, breaking apart, or coming off often, the roof may be near the end of its life. In this case, a professional inspection can tell you if repairs are enough or if replacing the roof is the better long-term choice.
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