Missing or Lifted Shingles: What Homeowners Should Know
Finding missing or lifted shingles after a windstorm is a common experience for Ontario homeowners. While a few missing tabs may seem minor, they expose the underlayment and deck to water and should be addressed promptly.
Why shingles lift and blow off
Shingles lift when wind gets under the leading edge and breaks the seal strip. Older, brittle shingles lose their adhesive flexibility and blow off more easily. Improper nailing also contributes to blow-offs.
Architectural shingles with proper wind ratings and nailing resist blow-offs better than older 3-tab shingles.
What missing shingles mean
A few missing shingles after a severe storm is normal and usually repairable. But if shingles blow off in every moderate wind, the roof may be aging or improperly installed, and replacement may be near.
Lifted (but not missing) shingles that don't reseal also need attention, since they'll blow off eventually.
What to do right away
Document missing shingles with photos and check your interior for water stains. If rain is forecast, arrange temporary protection or prompt repair to prevent water entry.
Avoid climbing on the roof yourself—wet or wind-damaged roofs are hazardous.
Repair or replace?
If the roof is otherwise young and sound, color-matched shingle-tab replacement solves the problem. If shingles are old, brittle, or blowing off repeatedly, an inspection can determine whether replacement is near.
An honest roofer tells you which is the case.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to lose a few shingles in a storm?
A few shingles in a severe storm is common and usually repairable. Repeated blow-offs in moderate wind suggest aging or installation issues.
Can missing shingles cause leaks right away?
They can, especially with wind-driven rain. Address missing shingles promptly before the next rain.
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