If you have asphalt shingle roofing, there is a possibility that your shingles might get blown off in the wind during an extreme weather event. However, take note that blow-offs do not only happen in older roofs; even newly installed roofs are not completely safe from such an occurrence.
In this article, trusted roof contractor Fields Roof Service discusses the common causes of shingle blow-offs. We also offer some tips to help you determine when a repair or a replacement is needed.
What Causes Shingles to Blow Off?
Below are some of the most common reasons for shingle blow-offs:
- Age – If your roof is already approaching the end of its life span, it becomes more prone to blow-offs. This is due to the weakening of the adhesive that’s responsible for sealing the shingles.
- Improper nailing – A narrow strip is usually found on every shingle, helping your roofer identify proper nail placement. If the shingles are nailed too high, they won’t catch the shingles underneath, making the shingles more susceptible to blow-offs during high winds.
- Excessive overhang – The end of a shingle is supposed to hang over the edge of the roof between 1 and 1.5 inches. If drip edge flashing is installed, it should hang between 0.5 and 0.75 inches. Too much overhang and your shingles may be easily blown off during high winds.
When to Repair and When to Replace Your Roofing
Repairing individual shingles or a specific section of the roof is generally cheaper than a complete roof replacement. However, this may not always be the best approach. If you are particular about your home’s curb appeal, you might not like the resulting aesthetic of a repair. It’s usually difficult to find new shingles that match your old ones, so you have to be prepared for unsightly patches on your roofing.
A roof replacement, on the other hand, can give you peace of mind because all areas of your roofing will be given new life. Provided that your roof has been properly installed, you don’t have to worry about blow-offs or other issues recurring.
Fields Roof Service is a local company that provides top-notch roofing services. Whether you need help fixing a roof leak or replacing a roof, rest assured that we can deliver a quality job. Call us at (253) 852-4974 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.
