Issues that affect the structure and integrity of your roofing shingles should be handled promptly. In many cases, roofers can conduct simple repairs to prevent problems from worsening. Other instances, though, may require a complete replacement. Here are some signs that indicate you need to contact an expert.

How to Tell if Roofing Shingles Need Repairs or Replacement

1. Missing Shingles

A heavy wind or a minor leak that’s addressed quickly may lead to a few missing roofing shingles. The key here is to determine the severity of the loss. If there are just a couple of pieces missing, your roofing contractor can easily replace them. But if the problem is more widespread and the patches have been there for a while, you might need to consider replacement. Those bare patches expose the layer underneath and leave it vulnerable to moisture damage, which could lead to substantial structural problems.

2. Granulation on the Ground

Granules are the small pieces that cover the roofing shingles. They’re designed to protect the asphalt on the shingle from damaging ultraviolet rays and improve fire resistance. Over time, it’s natural for some granulation loss to occur, and you don’t need to repair the shingles if the problem is minimal.

You should, however, pay close attention if your roof is older. If there’s granule buildup in the gutters or on the ground, have a roof repair technician assess the problem. Granules are a form of weatherproofing, so repair may be necessary if the life of the roof is at risk.

3. Curling and Buckling Corners

If the shingles don’t lay flat, it’s important to have a roofer inspect the problem promptly. Curling, for example, gives the shingles a concave appearance with turned-up edges, while buckling may appear as though they’re being pushed upward. These issues can occur if moisture develops on the layer underneath and causes the decking to shift, in turn disrupting the natural position of the shingles.

Sometimes roofers can remove the affected shingles, fix the area below, and place new shingles on top. If the problem affects most of the roof, however, replacement may be more cost-effective.

Problems with roofing shingles require immediate attention from a skilled professional. That’s why homeowners throughout Archdale, NC, have trusted in the team at First Class Roofing Inc. for more than 30 years. Offering an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau®, they can handle everything from standard roof repairs to extensive replacements to emergencies. Their goal is to protect the integrity of your roof and home using only the highest-quality materials. Visit their website to find out about their services, or call (336) 880-8720 to schedule a free estimate.