Is your roof missing a single shingle? Even though a missing shingle or two may not seem like an issue you need to address immediately, take a look at what you need to know about replacement, timing, potential problems, and your roofing options.

Should You Replace One, Two, or a Few Shingles?

Pest attack or damage is possible with timber trusses. Some types of timber are resistant to some pets. Some wood treatments can also reduce the risk of pest resistance, though the treatments might fade over time and might require retreatment. However, no pest will attack or damage the steel.

Wild weather, wear, and unexpected accidents can damage or completely remove asphalt shingles from your home’s roof. You may not immediately notice the loss, depending on where the shingles are located. But when you do spot the small bald spots — should you rush to a replacement?

Even though a missing shingle or two may only make up a small area of your roof, the absence of the protective material can cause immediate and long-term problems. Without a full set of shingles or a continuous asphalt barrier:

• Your roof could leak. Shingles serve a purpose. They protect the underlying roof material and keep your attic or upper floor safe and dry. Any break in the roof (such as one missing shingle) allows water to leak through and get into your home.
• A leak could cause mold growth. The water itself isn’t the only issue to watch out for with a shingle-related roof leak. The missing area allows moisture to get through the formerly watertight barrier. This can cause mold growth in your attic, inside walls, or in other areas of your home.
• Anything inside your home could sustain damage. Not only can a leaky roof damage the structure of the building, but it can also cause problems for anything inside your home. This means one or a few missing shingles could ruin your furniture, rugs, or artwork.

Whether your home has one, two, or an entire patch of missing shingles, replace these essential pieces of the roof.

How Soon Should You Replace a Missing Shingle?

Unlike an entire side of your roof or a complete roof failure, a single shingle may not raise a red flag or cause alarm. But this doesn’t mean you should wait days, weeks, months, or years to deal with what may seem like minor damage to you.

After you notice a missing asphalt shingle (or a few), take the next step and:

• Call a roofer. A one-shingle replacement may seem like an easy do-it-yourself job. Even though the replacement process may not have the same complexities that a full re-roofing would, this job still requires a professional.
• Discuss replacement shingle colors. Can you replace the single shingle or a couple of missing parts with the same type of asphalt product? Asphalt shingles are available in a variety of colors. One or two mismatched shingles could stick out and decrease your home’s curb appeal.
• Consider additional replacement. Did the wind tear one shingle off or does your roof have significant wear and tear? Talk to the roofer about whether a single shingle will take care of the problem. If the roof is older or seriously worn, you may need to replace more than just the one shingle.
• Ask about what’s under the shingle. Is the area under the missing shingle or shingles in acceptable shape? If the sheathing or wood is damaged, the roofer will need to repair or replace this area too.

The sooner you call a roofer, the better this is for your home and your family. Again, over time, one or a few missing shingles can lead to serious water-related damage. Every day that goes by is a day that rain and moisture can enter your home.

Does your roof need a professional repair? Contact D.S. Bahr Construction, Inc., for more information.