When your roof needs a repair, especially after a storm, you can face a dilemma: should you do it yourself or find a professional? Roof repairs can cost anywhere between $150 to $8,000, so ensuring you get it done right the first time is important.
This article will explore the underlying causes behind blown off shingles and damaged roof shingles during a storm, the steps to repairing them, whether you should do it yourself or hire a professional, and if you decide to go with a professional, how to choose the right one.
Reasons Blown Off Shingles May Occur
Wind and storms can blow roof shingles off, but it’s essential to understand the underlying causes of it. Roof damage from severe weather, improper installation, and aging materials can lead to shingles blowing off, which may result in water damage and the need for immediate inspection and possible insurance claims.
- Improper installation: if shingles aren’t installed correctly, they become loose. Similarly, shingles rely on adhesive strips to bond to each other. The shingles may only adhere well if these strips are properly activated.
- Wear: Over time, shingles can deteriorate due to exposure to the elements, such as rain, hail, storms, etc., becoming brittle and more prone to blow off. If your roof overhangs, it’s more susceptible to wind damage (as the surface area where wind exerts force increases).
- Aging: As your roof gets older, its adhesive becomes weaker.
- Shingle Quality: Lower-quality shingles may have manufacturing defects that affect their durability and wind resistance.
- Underlying damage to roof decking: Moisture can affect the corrugated metal, plywood sheeting, or OSB board, causing shingle nails to pop off.
- Neglecting your repairs: If you fail to address minor damages or wear timely, it can lead to greater issues later, such as during storms.
How to Perform Roof Repairs for Blown Off Shingles
Here’s how to repair roof shingles blown off.
- Damage Assessment
It’s crucial to assess and inspect the extent of damage, such as the number of missing or damaged shingles, loose nails, and hidden damage. Find your roof’s bare spots and determine how many shingles will be needed. It’s essential to pick a cool day for repairs because, during summer, asphalt shingles heat up, making them harder to remove.
2. Get the Right Materials
Here is a list of just some of the materials you will need:
- Replacement shingles
- Asphalt roofing cement
- Ridge caps
- Starter shingles
- Roofing nails
- Crowbar
- Hammer or nail gun
- Pry bar
- Roofing adhesive (also called roofing cement)
- Utility or putty knife
- Ladder
- Safety gear (gloves, safety glasses, and harness)
- Underlayment
3. Slide Your New Shingles Into Place
Use a crowbar to lift the edges of the shingles around the damaged area and separate it from the adhesive. If the adjacent shingles are also damaged or loose, remove them as well. The crowbar claw can also be used to loosen and remove the nails. You can now remove and discard the shingles (although if there isn’t severe damage, you can consider salvaging it).
Before proceeding, you should clear any debris and check for damage to the roof deck (such as structural damage or rot). Next, install the new shingle in the same place as the old one and nail it into the right place through the nail strip. Place asphalt roofing cement or sealant under the shingles and firmly press tabs to ensure the new adhesive holds well.
Remember, it’s often necessary to replace shingles as a preventive measure or a necessary repair to maintain the integrity of your roof.
Should You Call a Professional?
If you lack proper safety equipment or aren’t confident working in high places, you should seek the help of a professional roofing company.
Pros and Cons of DIY Roof Repair
The most significant advantage of doing roof repairs yourself is saving money. You don’t need to hire professional roofing contractors, eliminating labour costs. It’s also flexible, as you can work at your own pace and schedule without waiting for contractors’ availability. It’s both a learning opportunity and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
However, it poses safety risks as it can be dangerous if you lack proper equipment and training. Falls can lead to severe injuries and even death. Without specific experience, skills, and knowledge, you may not correctly identify the underlying issues and even make more mistakes. These mistakes may end up costing more to fix than if you hired a professional. Check the terms before performing repairs if your roof is under warranty, as DIY repairs might void the warranty.
Pros and Cons of Calling a Professional
Professional roofing contractors are experienced and trained in all roofing aspects, allowing them to do proper installations and repairs and correctly diagnose issues. Due to their experience and safety gear, they are less susceptible to accidents. They work much more efficiently and effectively, completing the project in less time. As professionals, they will adhere to manufacturer recommendations and industry standards, ensuring quality workmanship.
However, labour and material costs can be pretty high, and you may experience scheduling constraints while waiting for available appointments. You’ll have to relinquish control and trust their expertise and judgment on the repair process.
How to Choose the Right Roofing Contractor
If you decide you want to work with a professional instead of doing it yourself, then keep these tips in mind:
1. Check Reviews
You can easily find roofing contractors by searching “roofing contractors near me” on Google. For a more comprehensive understanding, check the reviews from the last few months on Google, official websites, and the Better Business Bureau. You should also ask friends, family, and neighbours for recommendations, as personal referrals are often reliable.
Review the contractor’s portfolio of past projects. This can give you a sense of their quality of work and expertise. Choose a contractor with several years of experience. Longevity in the industry often indicates reliability and quality work. Additionally, consider the types of roofing materials they use, as the quality of roofing material can significantly impact the durability and lifespan of your roof.
2. Local to Your Area
It is far more ideal to get roofing contractors who are local to your area. They should have a phone number and a physical office. This helps ensure all paperwork is in place, local codes are followed, and you can quickly contact them.
3. Get Multiple Quotes
Don’t talk to just one roofing contractor and take their word on everything; instead, talk to multiple roofing contractors. This will help you determine whether you need a total roof replacement or repair, compare costs, and decide which roofing contractor is best for you.
Pay attention to how promptly and thoroughly the contractor responds to your inquiries, as good communication is essential for a smooth project. Be cautious of quotes that are significantly lower than others, which may indicate lower-quality materials or subpar workmanship.
Endnote
Your roof is a barrier against branches, rain, ice, snow, and debris, and when it’s damaged, such as having a damaged shingle, it can leave you confused but determined to fix it as soon as possible. Sometimes, replacing just a few shingles can be a practical solution depending on the roof’s age. However, is it much more ideal to do it yourself or find a professional? Consider the pros and cons of both, the type of work you need, the budget and safety gear available, and more before deciding the right fit for you. Remember, safety is key.
